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This Stays Between Us
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Expected 3 Jul 25Win a free print copy of this book!
9 days and 10:22:06
10 copies available
U.S. only
It was supposed to be paradise.
A group of friends are studying abroad in Australia, having the time of their lives. Sun-kissed skin, whirlwind romances, all-night parties � they think it will never end, that nothing bad will ever happen to them.
But not all of them came home.
Accepted onto the exclusive Adventure Abroad Programme, they travel the country, swim with sharks, hike in the national park. But it isn’t long before their trip of a lifetime ends in violence and betrayal.
And now they have to go back...
Years pass, but none of the surviving friends forget what happened that night. So when the remains of a girl are found in the outback, they know it’s time to face up to the past. All of them are guilty of something, but who is really to blame?
A group of friends are studying abroad in Australia, having the time of their lives. Sun-kissed skin, whirlwind romances, all-night parties � they think it will never end, that nothing bad will ever happen to them.
But not all of them came home.
Accepted onto the exclusive Adventure Abroad Programme, they travel the country, swim with sharks, hike in the national park. But it isn’t long before their trip of a lifetime ends in violence and betrayal.
And now they have to go back...
Years pass, but none of the surviving friends forget what happened that night. So when the remains of a girl are found in the outback, they know it’s time to face up to the past. All of them are guilty of something, but who is really to blame?
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 15, 2025
13 people are currently reading
9,874 people want to read
About the author
Sara Ochs
2books361followersSara Ochs is an author, law professor, and avid traveler. Born and raised in Upstate New York, Sara and her husband now split their time between the United States and Sweden.
When she’s not turning one of the many places she’s visited into the setting of her next thriller, she can usually be found trip planning.
Sara’s debut novel, a thriller set on a remote Thai island, will be published as THE DIVE in the UK and territories in July �23 and as THE RESORT in the USA in February �24.
You can find Sara on Instagram @saraochsauthor and on Twitter @OchsWrites.
When she’s not turning one of the many places she’s visited into the setting of her next thriller, she can usually be found trip planning.
Sara’s debut novel, a thriller set on a remote Thai island, will be published as THE DIVE in the UK and territories in July �23 and as THE RESORT in the USA in February �24.
You can find Sara on Instagram @saraochsauthor and on Twitter @OchsWrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 22, 2025
ARC for review. To be published July 15, 2025.
2 stars
Ten years ago friends Phoebe and Claire went to Australia to study abroad for a month, but Phoebe disappeared. Now, Phoebe’s remains have been discovered and the rest of the study group returns to Australia (um, why?) All of them have secrets. Especially Claire. Because she killed Phoebe.
But, of course, it’s most complicated than that. The shifts in POV between Phoebe and Claire were a little confusing for me. Oh, and Phoebe only becomes an acceptable human being when she loses weight, which is awesome. Ugh.
2 stars
Ten years ago friends Phoebe and Claire went to Australia to study abroad for a month, but Phoebe disappeared. Now, Phoebe’s remains have been discovered and the rest of the study group returns to Australia (um, why?) All of them have secrets. Especially Claire. Because she killed Phoebe.
But, of course, it’s most complicated than that. The shifts in POV between Phoebe and Claire were a little confusing for me. Oh, and Phoebe only becomes an acceptable human being when she loses weight, which is awesome. Ugh.
February 3, 2025
This is the best book I have read in quite some time! In the first few chapters, I got that tingle I get when I know that I'm going to absolutely love a book, and I wasn't wrong. The writing style was really enjoyable to read, and the cast of characters felt well-developed, distinct and believable.
The plot really kept me interested - both timelines had me hooked and I equally enjoyed Claire's and Phoebe's POV. The book was well paced and I loved the mini reveals throughout the book and there were lots of clever clues, without being too obvious.
I think it may divide people, but I loved the epilogue, and thought it was a perfect way to end the book. A massive 5 stars from me, and I would recommend it to everyone.
The plot really kept me interested - both timelines had me hooked and I equally enjoyed Claire's and Phoebe's POV. The book was well paced and I loved the mini reveals throughout the book and there were lots of clever clues, without being too obvious.
I think it may divide people, but I loved the epilogue, and thought it was a perfect way to end the book. A massive 5 stars from me, and I would recommend it to everyone.
February 13, 2025
Wow! This was absolutely amazing! So many unhinged twists and turns! I was surprisingly shocked at each turn of events! I loved the cattiness and all the sexual tension between the group traveling abroad in Australia and I loved reading about the things they did in Sydney and in the Outback. The way Sara wrote the descriptions, I felt as if I was living alongside Ellery, Phoebe, Adrien, Kyan, Claire, Josh, Declan, Tomas and Hari. I felt everything they were feeling. Go into this blind because it is so good!
February 7, 2025
If you’re at all similar to me then you know there’s just something addictive about a thriller set in the Australian Outback, something about the vivid landmarks, the heat, the possibility of poisonous animals and the back packing travellers, I’d personally love to travel to Australia but the thought of the giant spiders deters me 😂
“This stays between us� divides its attention between two main characters, one from a past timeline who we know is currently deceased, and one in present day who is slowly unwinding the events of the past as its colliding with her present day.
Present day Claire finds herself having to return to Australia many years after studying abroad. The original purpose for the trip is a school reunion which quickly dissolves into a police investigation after Phoebes remains are found.
Although it seems to inform you of what happened at the beginning of the book we soon learn that the narrator is in fact unreliable leaving a few twists in store for the reader.
If you want to get a jump start on your summer reads and feel some sunshine whilst it’s cold out then this is a great book to ease you into a warmer climate.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Sara Ochs for the earc!
Publish date: July 15th 2025
“This stays between us� divides its attention between two main characters, one from a past timeline who we know is currently deceased, and one in present day who is slowly unwinding the events of the past as its colliding with her present day.
Present day Claire finds herself having to return to Australia many years after studying abroad. The original purpose for the trip is a school reunion which quickly dissolves into a police investigation after Phoebes remains are found.
Although it seems to inform you of what happened at the beginning of the book we soon learn that the narrator is in fact unreliable leaving a few twists in store for the reader.
If you want to get a jump start on your summer reads and feel some sunshine whilst it’s cold out then this is a great book to ease you into a warmer climate.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Sara Ochs for the earc!
Publish date: July 15th 2025
April 20, 2025
This Stays Between Us by Sara Ochs
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
3 stars
As is the way with me, the synopsis drew me in. A small group of college students winds up in Australia for a short study abroad program. The program ends with one student dead and one missing. Ten years later the body of the missing student is found and those left of the group travel back to Australia to aide the authorities with their investigation by completing interviews. As the investigation unfolds we find that everyone is harboring secrets.
There are a slew of characters in this story but it fluctuates between the POV’s of Phoebe (10 years ago,) and Claire ( present day.) Through the story telling it becomes clear that each student on the trip found themselves participating in the program for deeply personal reasons. These are young twenty something kids so the pettiness and drama run strong. I hate to say this but I found every one of the main characters insufferable (with the exception of maybe Tomas but he didn’t really play a big part.)
The majority of the book is a slow reveal of secrets that are intended to keep you circling around the characters trying to figure out who the culprit is. Like the author wants you to be convinced that you know who it is, only to have you change your mind with the next chapter reveal. Except it didn’t work like that for me. The secrets and the character responses to events and situations were predictable. I often found myself rolling my eyes. Learning who the murderer was felt rushed through and was anticlimactic. At the end, each characters story time of what they spent the last ten years doing and how they were going to move forward was kind of boring, an info dump if you will.
That big reveal at the very end was sinister but not surprising at all.
Overall, it’s not a terrible book. It just didn’t feel well executed. It wasn’t riveting to me, less psychological thriller and more corny…mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
3 stars
As is the way with me, the synopsis drew me in. A small group of college students winds up in Australia for a short study abroad program. The program ends with one student dead and one missing. Ten years later the body of the missing student is found and those left of the group travel back to Australia to aide the authorities with their investigation by completing interviews. As the investigation unfolds we find that everyone is harboring secrets.
There are a slew of characters in this story but it fluctuates between the POV’s of Phoebe (10 years ago,) and Claire ( present day.) Through the story telling it becomes clear that each student on the trip found themselves participating in the program for deeply personal reasons. These are young twenty something kids so the pettiness and drama run strong. I hate to say this but I found every one of the main characters insufferable (with the exception of maybe Tomas but he didn’t really play a big part.)
The majority of the book is a slow reveal of secrets that are intended to keep you circling around the characters trying to figure out who the culprit is. Like the author wants you to be convinced that you know who it is, only to have you change your mind with the next chapter reveal. Except it didn’t work like that for me. The secrets and the character responses to events and situations were predictable. I often found myself rolling my eyes. Learning who the murderer was felt rushed through and was anticlimactic. At the end, each characters story time of what they spent the last ten years doing and how they were going to move forward was kind of boring, an info dump if you will.
That big reveal at the very end was sinister but not surprising at all.
Overall, it’s not a terrible book. It just didn’t feel well executed. It wasn’t riveting to me, less psychological thriller and more corny…mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 22, 2025
I was attracted to the idea of a sun-soaked vacation thriller, which seems to be this author's specialty, set at a short study abroad program in Australia with a wild group of friends with murder in the potent mix of sex and substance abuse. Unfortunately the writing just really missed the mark for me.
I was prepared for toxic, unlikable characters and alcohol-fuelled debauchery, but I found the friends to be shallow and not very well developed. I never saw the chemistry between their friendships or romantic entanglements and they all seemed to actively dislike each other, which made it hard for me to stay interested in them as characters.
The writing style was also kind of bland to me.
As a thriller I found it boring and predictable. It was easy to read in an afternoon but it was kind of a slog to get through. Alas this one was just not for me. This has received many other great reviews however. So it could just be a me thing.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was prepared for toxic, unlikable characters and alcohol-fuelled debauchery, but I found the friends to be shallow and not very well developed. I never saw the chemistry between their friendships or romantic entanglements and they all seemed to actively dislike each other, which made it hard for me to stay interested in them as characters.
The writing style was also kind of bland to me.
As a thriller I found it boring and predictable. It was easy to read in an afternoon but it was kind of a slog to get through. Alas this one was just not for me. This has received many other great reviews however. So it could just be a me thing.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As with The Resort, Ochs has created a wonderfully immersive experience. Australia was vividly described and made such a great backdrop to the story. There's a desolation and desperation to both place and people. A group of students longing to escape and reinvent, but unintentionally (or maybe international) inviting danger.
Claire has been certain for the last ten years that she was the one who killed Phoebe. But when Phoebe's body is found and more information comes out during the investigation, Claire isn't so sure of her guilt anymore. But she is sure she can no longer trust any of her old friends. Because one of them has to be the guilty party.
As with The Resort, Ochs has created a wonderfully immersive experience. Australia was vividly described and made such a great backdrop to the story. There's a desolation and desperation to both place and people. A group of students longing to escape and reinvent, but unintentionally (or maybe international) inviting danger.
Claire has been certain for the last ten years that she was the one who killed Phoebe. But when Phoebe's body is found and more information comes out during the investigation, Claire isn't so sure of her guilt anymore. But she is sure she can no longer trust any of her old friends. Because one of them has to be the guilty party.
March 18, 2025
Yeeees! It’s like you’re writing thrillers based on my personal preferences, Sara! More than one pov, a strong sense of place (bonus for it being places I haven’t been but would love to go), intertwining timelines, messy friend groups� i can go on!! Will recommend this to anyone looking for a great (and nailbite inducing) read this summer!
(Sorry not sorry for too many exclamation points)
(Sorry not sorry for too many exclamation points)
March 25, 2025
Another character dynamic deep dive from this great author. I loved this.
A group of young college students on an Australian abroad program are having the time of their life when the trip ends with one of them going missing. Now, it is 10 years later and the group reconnects� because police have found their friend’s body.
Now, each of them back in Australia, they must confront what happened to Phoebe all those years ago. With twists and turns, I had a great time unraveling the truth. I enjoyed the differences between the characters in their college years - who they were as people, to who they become in the present.
This one kept me on the edge of my seat and I loved it.
A group of young college students on an Australian abroad program are having the time of their life when the trip ends with one of them going missing. Now, it is 10 years later and the group reconnects� because police have found their friend’s body.
Now, each of them back in Australia, they must confront what happened to Phoebe all those years ago. With twists and turns, I had a great time unraveling the truth. I enjoyed the differences between the characters in their college years - who they were as people, to who they become in the present.
This one kept me on the edge of my seat and I loved it.
March 28, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC of 'This Stays Between Us' by Sara Ochs - expected release date of 07/15/2025
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ochs books have a White Lotus kinda feel to them, but for a younger audience. This one was okay. Her description of the Aussie setting was great, I felt like I was there. Other than that, the storyline just felt eh. I didn't like any of the characters and the few she went into deep detail on were actually pretty intolerable. Throwing in a relationship out of the blue between Phoebe and Ellery was not necessary at all, like, why!? There were no hints to any intimacy between them anywhere in the book until the end. Also, the fact that there was an accidental death before the murder, I don't think that really needed to happen. Especially since it was just glossed over and life went on for the characters like normal after it. And for Josh to be the main bad guy/ killer, that was so underwhelming, we barely knew anything about him until the end, too. A lot was promised, hinted at, then at the end it felt rushed and thrown haphazardly together. But it all tied up, no loose ends by the finish.
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ochs books have a White Lotus kinda feel to them, but for a younger audience. This one was okay. Her description of the Aussie setting was great, I felt like I was there. Other than that, the storyline just felt eh. I didn't like any of the characters and the few she went into deep detail on were actually pretty intolerable. Throwing in a relationship out of the blue between Phoebe and Ellery was not necessary at all, like, why!? There were no hints to any intimacy between them anywhere in the book until the end. Also, the fact that there was an accidental death before the murder, I don't think that really needed to happen. Especially since it was just glossed over and life went on for the characters like normal after it. And for Josh to be the main bad guy/ killer, that was so underwhelming, we barely knew anything about him until the end, too. A lot was promised, hinted at, then at the end it felt rushed and thrown haphazardly together. But it all tied up, no loose ends by the finish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
First things first, thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this ARC!
I do loves destination thrillers like this! Which is why I did decide to give Sara Ochs another chance after having some sort of love-hate relationship with the Dive! And I am glad I did. Guess I will never be able to go to Australia myself, so living my travel dreams through a good thriller while the weather is so awful here these days is just what I needed....
The story is told from the POV of both Claire and Phoebe. We learn pretty quickly that Phoebe's remains has been found - aka she is dead - and that Claire had something to do with it.... but what and why is on us readers to figure out while following the story of the two women in both the past and the present.
I'm glad I got a chance to read this, and will for sure also give future stories of Sara Ochs a try after this.
I do loves destination thrillers like this! Which is why I did decide to give Sara Ochs another chance after having some sort of love-hate relationship with the Dive! And I am glad I did. Guess I will never be able to go to Australia myself, so living my travel dreams through a good thriller while the weather is so awful here these days is just what I needed....
The story is told from the POV of both Claire and Phoebe. We learn pretty quickly that Phoebe's remains has been found - aka she is dead - and that Claire had something to do with it.... but what and why is on us readers to figure out while following the story of the two women in both the past and the present.
I'm glad I got a chance to read this, and will for sure also give future stories of Sara Ochs a try after this.
March 25, 2025
I was hooked by the premise - a group of students doing study abtoad in Australia. One disappears and 10 years later the group reunites back in Australia from all over (coincidentally the richest one now lives in Australia and has space for everyone in his giant waterfront mansion). Everyone has secrets. Phoebe thought she was responsible but what really happened?
Unfortunately this was boring. Most of the characters were unlikeable. The reveal at the end is a big tell all which annoys me if not done well, which this wasn’t. This was a slog and just felt meh.
The writing itself wasn’t bad, just lots of hinting at secrets without revealing them. This just wasn’t for me. Lots of great reviews from people who enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Unfortunately this was boring. Most of the characters were unlikeable. The reveal at the end is a big tell all which annoys me if not done well, which this wasn’t. This was a slog and just felt meh.
The writing itself wasn’t bad, just lots of hinting at secrets without revealing them. This just wasn’t for me. Lots of great reviews from people who enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2025
Wow—what an amazing thriller! I absolutely loved this book. The dual timeline was brilliantly executed, seamlessly switching between present-day (Claire’s POV) and the past leading up to the murder (Phoebe’s POV). This structure added so much depth, allowing us to truly get to know Phoebe—even though she was already dead in the present-day sections. It made the thriller feel multidimensional and kept me constantly guessing.
I’ll admit, when the killer was initially revealed, I felt a bit disappointed. But then—boom—the final twist at the end completely changed that for me. It was such a shocking and satisfying moment that tied everything together in the best way.
If you love suspenseful, cleverly plotted thrillers, I absolutely recommend This Stays Between Us!
I’ll admit, when the killer was initially revealed, I felt a bit disappointed. But then—boom—the final twist at the end completely changed that for me. It was such a shocking and satisfying moment that tied everything together in the best way.
If you love suspenseful, cleverly plotted thrillers, I absolutely recommend This Stays Between Us!
April 4, 2025
Wow, what a ride! This Stays Between Us was a page turner right from the very first line. It was fast-paced and twisty and, just when I thought I had it figured out, it took a turn that kept me on my toes.
The characters were so well developed and multi-layered, adding to the suspenseful nature of the book. I really loved the dual timeline between Claire and Phoebe which also added additional depth to the story.
If you're looking for a book you can devour in 24 hours, this is it! Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for a review.
The characters were so well developed and multi-layered, adding to the suspenseful nature of the book. I really loved the dual timeline between Claire and Phoebe which also added additional depth to the story.
If you're looking for a book you can devour in 24 hours, this is it! Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for a review.
February 8, 2025
This book transported me on an outback adventure from the very beginning! A "who done it" mystery that takes place in Australia 10 years ago & present tense. A group of friends reuniting to help solve the murder of their friend, but who can you trust? Who isn't whom they appear to be? This thriller kept me interested the whole way through! Thank you for the ARC Netgalley & Sourcebooks Landmark!
March 16, 2025
The last page 😱
February 7, 2025
My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Sara Ochs and The Sourcebooks Landmark for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
As much as I hate writing negative reviews, I probably hate writing lukewarm ones even more. But sadly that would be exactly the case here. “This Stays Between Us� captured me at first thanks to the presence of one of my favourite tropes: reunion of school friends. In this case, a group of students from all around the world is spending a month in Australia. It should be mostly party time for them, but soon they are confronted with a tragedy, and another one is already lurking in the shadows. On the last day of the course a student named Phoebe goes missing... and years later a body is found. The former friends are reunited in Australia, but almost every one of them is protecting a secret, especially Claire, Phoebe's roommate.
The sad thing about this book � and my main complaint, hence the lukewarm review � is its painful predictability. I was able to guess correctly not only major twists, but also everything in between, how people will react to something, what will they say and so on. It was tiresome, disappointing, not to mention boring. And boredom is not something I like to associate with thrillers. Plus Claire, the protagonist, was infuriatingly dumb and gullible. Surely not a heroine for a reader to identify with.
Overall it's an OK book, that's all � no more, no less.
#ThisStaysBetweenUs #NetGalley
As much as I hate writing negative reviews, I probably hate writing lukewarm ones even more. But sadly that would be exactly the case here. “This Stays Between Us� captured me at first thanks to the presence of one of my favourite tropes: reunion of school friends. In this case, a group of students from all around the world is spending a month in Australia. It should be mostly party time for them, but soon they are confronted with a tragedy, and another one is already lurking in the shadows. On the last day of the course a student named Phoebe goes missing... and years later a body is found. The former friends are reunited in Australia, but almost every one of them is protecting a secret, especially Claire, Phoebe's roommate.
The sad thing about this book � and my main complaint, hence the lukewarm review � is its painful predictability. I was able to guess correctly not only major twists, but also everything in between, how people will react to something, what will they say and so on. It was tiresome, disappointing, not to mention boring. And boredom is not something I like to associate with thrillers. Plus Claire, the protagonist, was infuriatingly dumb and gullible. Surely not a heroine for a reader to identify with.
Overall it's an OK book, that's all � no more, no less.
#ThisStaysBetweenUs #NetGalley
April 8, 2025
3.5 rounded up
Slow start made it kind of hard to get into.
The characters were just okay. Tomas was my favorite and I didn’t enjoy his story. The rest felt flat and not like real people but rather npcs for the story.
The mystery pulled me in though. I wanted to know who did what and WHY. It kept me going until the very end.
#netgalley #arc
Slow start made it kind of hard to get into.
The characters were just okay. Tomas was my favorite and I didn’t enjoy his story. The rest felt flat and not like real people but rather npcs for the story.
The mystery pulled me in though. I wanted to know who did what and WHY. It kept me going until the very end.
#netgalley #arc
April 1, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down
I loved the book’s premise with a group of friends coming back together years later and piecing together the mystery of what happened during their time in university. The Australian Outback was also such a unique book setting. The characters were mostly unlikable, which isn’t a bad thing. But they were forgettable, and I was mixed up with who was who during the beginning of the book.
There were a lot of mini twists throughout the book that kept my interest along the way. I was able to predict most of them, including the big reveal. But some were definitely unexpected! It kept the pace steady throughout the book with the timing of the reveals.
Overall, it’s a solid thriller that’s easy to read, has lots of twists, and a fun vacation-y setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an advanced reader copy of this book.
I loved the book’s premise with a group of friends coming back together years later and piecing together the mystery of what happened during their time in university. The Australian Outback was also such a unique book setting. The characters were mostly unlikable, which isn’t a bad thing. But they were forgettable, and I was mixed up with who was who during the beginning of the book.
There were a lot of mini twists throughout the book that kept my interest along the way. I was able to predict most of them, including the big reveal. But some were definitely unexpected! It kept the pace steady throughout the book with the timing of the reveals.
Overall, it’s a solid thriller that’s easy to read, has lots of twists, and a fun vacation-y setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an advanced reader copy of this book.
July 14, 2024
can’t wait for the next one!
March 9, 2025
4.5 stars!
Another great thriller from Sara Ochs! This one set in Australia (a place I’ve always wanted to visit!) with a murder 10 years ago, several suspects, and twists at every turn. I loved the short chapters and alternating POVs and timelines. Kept me flipping the pages and guessing what would happen next.
And the very last chapter…ooooh man. Loved it!
Thank you Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Another great thriller from Sara Ochs! This one set in Australia (a place I’ve always wanted to visit!) with a murder 10 years ago, several suspects, and twists at every turn. I loved the short chapters and alternating POVs and timelines. Kept me flipping the pages and guessing what would happen next.
And the very last chapter…ooooh man. Loved it!
Thank you Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 7, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sara Ochs delivers an atmospheric and suspenseful thriller with “This Stays Between Us,� a gripping story of secrets and the deadly consequences of a past that won’t stay buried. Set against the hauntingly vivid backdrop of the Australian Outback, the book brings together two timelines—Claire’s present-day search for the truth and Phoebe’s past experiences leading up to her death—slowly unraveling a mystery packed with tension and unexpected twists.
The book follows Claire, one of several former study abroad students who return to Australia after the remains of their long-missing friend, Phoebe, are discovered. From the start, Claire admits to playing a role in Phoebe’s death, making her an unreliable narrator whose perspective keeps the reader questioning what really happened that fateful night. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Claire wasn’t the only one with secrets. Each member of the group is a potential suspect, and as more people start to die, the stakes skyrocket. Was someone seeking revenge, or was the past being buried—literally?
Ochs skillfully balances the dual timelines, using Phoebe’s flashbacks to provide crucial insights into the toxic relationships, betrayals, and personal struggles that shaped the group’s dynamic. Phoebe, dealing with deep-seated trauma, emerges as one of the most complex characters, while Claire, though sometimes overshadowed by the others, has hidden depths that are fully revealed in a mind-blowing epilogue, which some people may or may not like. Clever clues and red herrings are scattered throughout, keeping you engaged and second-guessing every character’s motives.
The Australian setting plays a key role in the book’s immersive atmosphere. Ochs’s detailed descriptions of the Outback add to the sense of isolation and foreboding, making the environment feel as dangerous as the characters themselves. The pacing is well-crafted, with slow-burning suspense that escalates into a fast-paced, high-stakes conclusion.
While the book’s core mystery is compelling, its themes of friendship and trauma add emotional weight to the story. Every character has something to hide, and as secrets come to light, the true nature of their relationships is exposed. The final twists, especially in the epilogue, will leave you reeling, making for a truly satisfying—and chilling—ending.
Perfect for fans of locked-room mysteries and psychological thrillers, “This Stays Between Us� is an addictive, atmospheric read that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Highly recommended for anyone who loves dark secrets, unreliable narrators, and thrillers packed with tension and shocking reveals.
Sara Ochs delivers an atmospheric and suspenseful thriller with “This Stays Between Us,� a gripping story of secrets and the deadly consequences of a past that won’t stay buried. Set against the hauntingly vivid backdrop of the Australian Outback, the book brings together two timelines—Claire’s present-day search for the truth and Phoebe’s past experiences leading up to her death—slowly unraveling a mystery packed with tension and unexpected twists.
The book follows Claire, one of several former study abroad students who return to Australia after the remains of their long-missing friend, Phoebe, are discovered. From the start, Claire admits to playing a role in Phoebe’s death, making her an unreliable narrator whose perspective keeps the reader questioning what really happened that fateful night. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Claire wasn’t the only one with secrets. Each member of the group is a potential suspect, and as more people start to die, the stakes skyrocket. Was someone seeking revenge, or was the past being buried—literally?
Ochs skillfully balances the dual timelines, using Phoebe’s flashbacks to provide crucial insights into the toxic relationships, betrayals, and personal struggles that shaped the group’s dynamic. Phoebe, dealing with deep-seated trauma, emerges as one of the most complex characters, while Claire, though sometimes overshadowed by the others, has hidden depths that are fully revealed in a mind-blowing epilogue, which some people may or may not like. Clever clues and red herrings are scattered throughout, keeping you engaged and second-guessing every character’s motives.
The Australian setting plays a key role in the book’s immersive atmosphere. Ochs’s detailed descriptions of the Outback add to the sense of isolation and foreboding, making the environment feel as dangerous as the characters themselves. The pacing is well-crafted, with slow-burning suspense that escalates into a fast-paced, high-stakes conclusion.
While the book’s core mystery is compelling, its themes of friendship and trauma add emotional weight to the story. Every character has something to hide, and as secrets come to light, the true nature of their relationships is exposed. The final twists, especially in the epilogue, will leave you reeling, making for a truly satisfying—and chilling—ending.
Perfect for fans of locked-room mysteries and psychological thrillers, “This Stays Between Us� is an addictive, atmospheric read that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Highly recommended for anyone who loves dark secrets, unreliable narrators, and thrillers packed with tension and shocking reveals.
February 21, 2025
Sara Ochs “This Stays Between Us� is a solid page-turner following MC Claire in the present day coming to terms with the fact that she may have killed her best (?) friend Phoebe 10 years. She’s joined by her prior during an Australian adventure program.
Even typing that last part reminds me that this novel, while a page turner, is corny and silly more times than not � I rolled my eyes fairly often especially around sections that mentioned Tomas and chapters that follow Phoebe, which take place in the past. Oh Tomas� what is up with the Australian adventure program and why did it continue even a minute after what happened to him? Suspending some belief in between giggles and more eye rolls.
Focusing on our second MC, Phoebe, for a second. Her sections also suffer with one of my least favorite components of thrillers (though it happens in other genres): telling instead of showing. So much is “I’m going to do this thing� instead of doing it. Instead, the author slowly reveals elements between the present and past chapters. By the time the “big� reveal happens, you’ll either know the truth or will be glad the book is over.
Speaking of, I can’t say I enjoyed the ending (again, silly) as the story is wrapped up in a tight little bow. But that doesn’t even compare to my distain for the epilogue. Without heading into spoiler territory, it feels unlike the character we’ve been following and almost retreads what they’ve learned over the course of the book. If I’m being extra picky, it also doesn’t make sense given it contradicts statements and feelings from earlier in the book. Doubt it’s possible but I hope it isn’t included in the final printing (reminder, I’m reading an advance copy in Feb 2025 ahead of the July 2025 release.)
While this novel is about remembering the past and coming to terms of our actions, I doubt I’ll remember this book in weeks time. Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC.
Even typing that last part reminds me that this novel, while a page turner, is corny and silly more times than not � I rolled my eyes fairly often especially around sections that mentioned Tomas and chapters that follow Phoebe, which take place in the past. Oh Tomas� what is up with the Australian adventure program and why did it continue even a minute after what happened to him? Suspending some belief in between giggles and more eye rolls.
Focusing on our second MC, Phoebe, for a second. Her sections also suffer with one of my least favorite components of thrillers (though it happens in other genres): telling instead of showing. So much is “I’m going to do this thing� instead of doing it. Instead, the author slowly reveals elements between the present and past chapters. By the time the “big� reveal happens, you’ll either know the truth or will be glad the book is over.
Speaking of, I can’t say I enjoyed the ending (again, silly) as the story is wrapped up in a tight little bow. But that doesn’t even compare to my distain for the epilogue. Without heading into spoiler territory, it feels unlike the character we’ve been following and almost retreads what they’ve learned over the course of the book. If I’m being extra picky, it also doesn’t make sense given it contradicts statements and feelings from earlier in the book. Doubt it’s possible but I hope it isn’t included in the final printing (reminder, I’m reading an advance copy in Feb 2025 ahead of the July 2025 release.)
While this novel is about remembering the past and coming to terms of our actions, I doubt I’ll remember this book in weeks time. Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC.
March 30, 2025
I loved Sara Ochs' debut thriller The Dive (titled The Resort in North America) set in a diving resort on a remote island in Thailand, so I was really excited to read this one, her second thriller, This Stays Between Us, titled The Outback in the UK/ANZ.
Like her debut, this book gave me vibes of Alex Garland's fantastic The Beach. The story centres around a group of young people who spend a month on a Study Abroad program in Australia. They are thrown together and become instant friends, partying and drinking and exploring in a new land. I backpacked down Australia's east coast myself, in my twenties, and this book really brought back the memories!
The author perfectly captures what it's like to be a young person overseas: the madcap late nights, instant connections with strangers, messy romantic entanglements and close escapes from danger. I loved the diverse cast of characters from shy Irish Declan, wealthy Kyan from Singapore, Tomas from Italy, Ellery from Canada, Adrien from South Africa and Americans Phoebe, Josh and Claire. They all have their reasons for wanting to escape to the other side of the world and we soon realise they are putting on masks and hiding things from the rest of the group.
The story switches between the young people on their study abroad program and ten years later, when the survivors return for a reunion. I love reunion stories! It was interesting to see how the characters had changed over the ten years. We gradually piece together what happened ten years ago, what led to the death of one of them - and who is responsible.
I loved the Australia setting, from coastal Sydney, tropical far North Queensland, to the dry dusty outback. All the characters have secrets which are gradually revealed. I was kept guessing all the way through and hugely enjoyed the ride!
This destination thriller is a total page-turner. Nostalgic, immersive and highly entertaining!
Like her debut, this book gave me vibes of Alex Garland's fantastic The Beach. The story centres around a group of young people who spend a month on a Study Abroad program in Australia. They are thrown together and become instant friends, partying and drinking and exploring in a new land. I backpacked down Australia's east coast myself, in my twenties, and this book really brought back the memories!
The author perfectly captures what it's like to be a young person overseas: the madcap late nights, instant connections with strangers, messy romantic entanglements and close escapes from danger. I loved the diverse cast of characters from shy Irish Declan, wealthy Kyan from Singapore, Tomas from Italy, Ellery from Canada, Adrien from South Africa and Americans Phoebe, Josh and Claire. They all have their reasons for wanting to escape to the other side of the world and we soon realise they are putting on masks and hiding things from the rest of the group.
The story switches between the young people on their study abroad program and ten years later, when the survivors return for a reunion. I love reunion stories! It was interesting to see how the characters had changed over the ten years. We gradually piece together what happened ten years ago, what led to the death of one of them - and who is responsible.
I loved the Australia setting, from coastal Sydney, tropical far North Queensland, to the dry dusty outback. All the characters have secrets which are gradually revealed. I was kept guessing all the way through and hugely enjoyed the ride!
This destination thriller is a total page-turner. Nostalgic, immersive and highly entertaining!
March 24, 2025
read if you like:
🌎 study abroad trips
🥶 cold case murders
summary:
This book seemed like a fun read for anyone who studied abroad (hello New Zealand!) and I was right! It follows a group that studied abroad together at Hamilton College in Australia, led by Phoebe and Claire, who became roommates and fast friends during their time down under. Despite having a blast with their friends and a seemingly perfect time, Phoebe disappears, and Claire is left to return to her life in the states. Ten years later, Phoebe’s body is found, and the group is called back to Australia for a reunion and the police investigation to understand what really happened to Phoebe the night she disappeared. As Claire reunites with her other friends there, it’s clear that more than just her has secrets to hide. As the investigation progresses, it’s clear that Claire’s secrets along with the others will shed light on what happened to Phoebe and who wanted her dead.
This book is written from dual POV’s � Claire’s in the present day, and Phoebe’s ten years ago during their time in Australia. The back and forth allows us to get to know both girls well, and see Claire’s evolution from student to adult and the trauma she lives with after Phoebe’s disappearance. Admittedly I wish we got to know the others in their group better, as I feel like it would have made the ending more dramatic! This aside though, the story has a fun premise (you don’t get many study abroad thrillers!) and moves quickly. It’s an easy read to follow and the ending isn’t very predictable � and ESPECIALLY the very end! it’s a classic thriller you won’t be able to put down.
If you like Australia or classic murder mysteries, check this book out when it releases on July 15! Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
🌎 study abroad trips
🥶 cold case murders
summary:
This book seemed like a fun read for anyone who studied abroad (hello New Zealand!) and I was right! It follows a group that studied abroad together at Hamilton College in Australia, led by Phoebe and Claire, who became roommates and fast friends during their time down under. Despite having a blast with their friends and a seemingly perfect time, Phoebe disappears, and Claire is left to return to her life in the states. Ten years later, Phoebe’s body is found, and the group is called back to Australia for a reunion and the police investigation to understand what really happened to Phoebe the night she disappeared. As Claire reunites with her other friends there, it’s clear that more than just her has secrets to hide. As the investigation progresses, it’s clear that Claire’s secrets along with the others will shed light on what happened to Phoebe and who wanted her dead.
This book is written from dual POV’s � Claire’s in the present day, and Phoebe’s ten years ago during their time in Australia. The back and forth allows us to get to know both girls well, and see Claire’s evolution from student to adult and the trauma she lives with after Phoebe’s disappearance. Admittedly I wish we got to know the others in their group better, as I feel like it would have made the ending more dramatic! This aside though, the story has a fun premise (you don’t get many study abroad thrillers!) and moves quickly. It’s an easy read to follow and the ending isn’t very predictable � and ESPECIALLY the very end! it’s a classic thriller you won’t be able to put down.
If you like Australia or classic murder mysteries, check this book out when it releases on July 15! Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
February 10, 2025
A group of co-ed university students from all over the world participated in an Adventure Abroad in Australia program a decade ago, but they didn’t all return home. Now they are gathering again in Australia following the news that one of the student’s remains have been discovered. The story is told in both Claire and Phoebe’s points of view � Claire being our narrator in the present and Phoebe as the narrator in the past. Phoebe is also the student who disappeared. Claire was closest to Phoebe, who seemed to rub everyone the wrong way. But Claire was patient and forgiving and saw a softer side to Phoebe.
Emotions ran high during the program, with casual and not-so-casual hook-ups and routine partying and drinking. Relationships were born and were broken and being together again a decade later is as awkward as Claire imagined it would be. But she’s not the only one who has been keeping secrets and who has an agenda for returning to Australia. But will she make it back home again?
Even though the characters may first seem cliché, they have more depth than I expected. Adrian didn’t seem to have any redeeming qualities and I wish she would have been put in her place at some point. There are plenty of twists, especially towards the end, but I think the author took it one twist too far. I was satisfied until that one, which was just too much. There are a plethora of references to ‘what she did� in Claire’s internal monologues that get a bit repetitive, but overall the story flows well and I loved all the descriptions of Australia, having never been there myself.
I could easily pick up right where I left off each time and I couldn’t wait to reach the end. I would definitely read more by this author and this is a fun book that I recommend.
Emotions ran high during the program, with casual and not-so-casual hook-ups and routine partying and drinking. Relationships were born and were broken and being together again a decade later is as awkward as Claire imagined it would be. But she’s not the only one who has been keeping secrets and who has an agenda for returning to Australia. But will she make it back home again?
Even though the characters may first seem cliché, they have more depth than I expected. Adrian didn’t seem to have any redeeming qualities and I wish she would have been put in her place at some point. There are plenty of twists, especially towards the end, but I think the author took it one twist too far. I was satisfied until that one, which was just too much. There are a plethora of references to ‘what she did� in Claire’s internal monologues that get a bit repetitive, but overall the story flows well and I loved all the descriptions of Australia, having never been there myself.
I could easily pick up right where I left off each time and I couldn’t wait to reach the end. I would definitely read more by this author and this is a fun book that I recommend.
March 25, 2025
This Stays Between Us by Sara Ochs starts with an intriguing premise—an old friend group reunited after a decade, secrets bubbling to the surface, and a murder mystery unfolding in dual timelines. The setup is gripping, and the writing is engaging, with well-paced reveals and some truly tense moments. The alternating perspectives between Claire and Phoebe add depth, and I enjoyed how the story slowly unraveled their past.
However, the novel ultimately fell flat for me. The biggest issue? It was painfully predictable. Every twist, every character reaction, every reveal felt phoned in, making it more tedious than thrilling. And then there's the frustrating portrayal of Phoebe—her character arc leans into fat-phobic messaging, suggesting that she only became worthy or likable after losing weight. That choice felt unnecessary and detracted from the story’s depth. Claire, our protagonist, also didn't help matters. She was frustratingly naive, making choices that felt forced just to drive the plot forward rather than being natural extensions of her character. In a genre where sharp, layered protagonists are key, she just didn’t stand out.
Overall, This Stays Between Us is a good thriller, but it doesn't bring anything fresh to the table. If you love reunion-based mysteries and don’t mind a predictable plot, it might still be worth a read—but don’t expect to be blown away. Find this on shelves July 15!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the complimentary eARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
However, the novel ultimately fell flat for me. The biggest issue? It was painfully predictable. Every twist, every character reaction, every reveal felt phoned in, making it more tedious than thrilling. And then there's the frustrating portrayal of Phoebe—her character arc leans into fat-phobic messaging, suggesting that she only became worthy or likable after losing weight. That choice felt unnecessary and detracted from the story’s depth. Claire, our protagonist, also didn't help matters. She was frustratingly naive, making choices that felt forced just to drive the plot forward rather than being natural extensions of her character. In a genre where sharp, layered protagonists are key, she just didn’t stand out.
Overall, This Stays Between Us is a good thriller, but it doesn't bring anything fresh to the table. If you love reunion-based mysteries and don’t mind a predictable plot, it might still be worth a read—but don’t expect to be blown away. Find this on shelves July 15!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for the complimentary eARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 9, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher and author for letting have this ARC for review . The book is expected to be published July 15, 2025.
Now, after a binge on romantasy, it was a nice refreshing dip into a thriller/who-done-it, especially with one done so well. There are two points of view and two timelines explored in the book (two timelines of then and now-not alternate reality timelines) and the chapters are fairly short and not too drawn on to lose my attention.
The book started out strong, as it was very clear on someone's guilt right out of the gates; but what really happened and all the motives around it are hinted and teased at through this book and I just ate it up as the reveals happened bit by bit. My suspicions kept shifting slightly because I also felt that everyone was just a little bit terrible.
I adored who atmospheric this book was and how diverse the students are. Sara captured the insecurities of (some) youth finding themselves and trying to fit in; the adventure and pettiness people have at that age and then the realization that the people you thought you knew so well when you were younger are so different when you reconnect later as 'mature' adults (if you want to consider ten years past college age mature)
This was my first book by the author and based on the story and quality of it, I will definitelyl be reading more of Sara Ochs works.
Now, after a binge on romantasy, it was a nice refreshing dip into a thriller/who-done-it, especially with one done so well. There are two points of view and two timelines explored in the book (two timelines of then and now-not alternate reality timelines) and the chapters are fairly short and not too drawn on to lose my attention.
The book started out strong, as it was very clear on someone's guilt right out of the gates; but what really happened and all the motives around it are hinted and teased at through this book and I just ate it up as the reveals happened bit by bit. My suspicions kept shifting slightly because I also felt that everyone was just a little bit terrible.
I adored who atmospheric this book was and how diverse the students are. Sara captured the insecurities of (some) youth finding themselves and trying to fit in; the adventure and pettiness people have at that age and then the realization that the people you thought you knew so well when you were younger are so different when you reconnect later as 'mature' adults (if you want to consider ten years past college age mature)
This was my first book by the author and based on the story and quality of it, I will definitelyl be reading more of Sara Ochs works.
March 22, 2025
I'm calling it now: This Stays Between Us is going to be one of the psychological thrillers we see EVERYWHERE this summer.
Let's talk about who this book will work for and why it should have worked for me. If you love thriller elements, alternating timelines and perspectives, unlikable characters, immersive settings, and volatile friend groups, this one is for you. This is also my list of pros because this is what pulled me in and kept my focus.
But where it fell short was in a lot of the structure. Now, this isn't to say it's a fault of the writing as it could be personal preference, as I do struggle with repetition and the issue that started things off on the wrong foot for me was reading over and over about the thinness of a specific character. There were also moments that seemed forced in as an afterthought, as they didn't add much in terms of plot and weren't necessary for the reveal(s).
Overall, this thriller comes together with an intriguing plot and enough twists to keep readers interested. The pacing works well for those who prefer things to move quickly, and the short chapter crowd is going to be thrilled. If you're all about popcorn thrillers with toxic characters and summer destination vibes, add this one to your TBR ASAP!
((While the viewpoints shared are my own, I want to thank NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark, and Sara Ochs for this complimentary copy.))
Let's talk about who this book will work for and why it should have worked for me. If you love thriller elements, alternating timelines and perspectives, unlikable characters, immersive settings, and volatile friend groups, this one is for you. This is also my list of pros because this is what pulled me in and kept my focus.
But where it fell short was in a lot of the structure. Now, this isn't to say it's a fault of the writing as it could be personal preference, as I do struggle with repetition and the issue that started things off on the wrong foot for me was reading over and over about the thinness of a specific character. There were also moments that seemed forced in as an afterthought, as they didn't add much in terms of plot and weren't necessary for the reveal(s).
Overall, this thriller comes together with an intriguing plot and enough twists to keep readers interested. The pacing works well for those who prefer things to move quickly, and the short chapter crowd is going to be thrilled. If you're all about popcorn thrillers with toxic characters and summer destination vibes, add this one to your TBR ASAP!
((While the viewpoints shared are my own, I want to thank NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark, and Sara Ochs for this complimentary copy.))
March 24, 2025
I absolutely loved “This Stays Between Us�. I’ve never had the pleasure of reading Sarah Ochs books before, but I do love a good thriller. I devoured this one in a day and I’m not sad about it. Set in the diverse, unique, and stunning Outback of Australia, a group of travel abroad friends is reunited years after their original adventure. What they think is that it’s just a reunion, but they’re thrown into a police investigation of their missing friend and her remains being discovered. Forcing the group of Claire, Josh, Declan, Adrien, Kyan, Tomas, and Hari to be reunited together and relive the loss of their friend; however, one of them isn’t who they seem and Claire seeks to find the truth of what happened to Phoebe.
The twists and turns of who can be trusted, who’s being honest and real, and who has withheld more than what they’re sharing we seek to discover and find out. I really enjoyed the twists and turns, trying to put the pieces together. I really loved the alternating viewpoints of the characters from then and now as we discover what happened to Phoebe and the events that happened that summer. I also appreciated the setting. I mean, Australia?! It all came together in the end and buckle down to read and reread the epilogue!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Sourcebooks, and Sarah Ochs for this wonderful read! I’m looking forward to recommending it to my friends and bookclub groups!
The twists and turns of who can be trusted, who’s being honest and real, and who has withheld more than what they’re sharing we seek to discover and find out. I really enjoyed the twists and turns, trying to put the pieces together. I really loved the alternating viewpoints of the characters from then and now as we discover what happened to Phoebe and the events that happened that summer. I also appreciated the setting. I mean, Australia?! It all came together in the end and buckle down to read and reread the epilogue!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Sourcebooks, and Sarah Ochs for this wonderful read! I’m looking forward to recommending it to my friends and bookclub groups!
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