Book Review: "Remain" by Nicholas Sparks and M. Night Shyamalan
As a lifelong fan of Nicholas Sparks, I was both intrigued and somewhat bewildered when I saw “Remain,” co-authored with M. Night Shyamalan, was gracing the literary shelves. This was definitely not on my 2025 bingo card! I dove in expecting a beautiful romance, but what I found was a deeply emotional journey that beautifully intertwined the supernatural with the raw realities of grief and connection.
The story follows Tate Donovan, a thirty-eight-year-old architect grappling with the profound loss of his sister. After a challenging stint in a psychiatric facility for acute depression, he relocates to the picturesque Cape Cod to lend a hand in constructing his best friend’s dream home. It’s here that we meet Wren Tobin, a fragile and captivating spirit, who had tragically passed away at twenty-nine. Wren’s story is complex, layered with the ramifications of a chaotic childhood that led to her untimely demise. Her ghostly presence is not just a haunting; it becomes a conduit for Tate’s healing and understanding.
The themes in “Remain”—from grief to human connection—are evenly balanced with supernatural elements that add an eerie, yet captivating pulse to the narrative. Tate and Wren’s relationship blossoms amid laughter, shared games, and tearful revelations about love, fear, and loss. The writers masterfully explore how love can manifest in the most unexpected forms, making the connection between two wounded souls resonate deeply.
One of my favorite moments is captured in Wren’s humorous yet poignant remark about ghosts, “Sometimes it’s easier to talk about things with strangers than with someone you know.” This encapsulates the essence of their relationship and speaks to the human experience—the desire for connection, even in life’s darkest moments.
Sparks and Shyamalan’s writing is rich and evocative, painting vivid imagery of Cape Cod while seamlessly weaving in the nuances of Tate’s and Wren’s emotional landscapes. However, I did feel that some repetitive elements detracted slightly from the overall impact, which led me to knock off a star from my rating. Yet, this doesn’t overshadow the sheer beauty and power of the story—a truly magnificent portrayal of how love can transcend even the boundaries of life and death.
In summary, “Remain” is not your typical Nicholas Sparks romance; it’s a heartfelt exploration of grief, connection, and self-discovery. Readers who cherish supernatural romances filled with emotional depth will find themselves utterly enchanted by Tate and Wren’s story. If you’re seeking a book that will leave you contemplating the fragility and beauty of life, mark your calendars for October 14, 2025. I assure you, this is one journey you won’t want to miss.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for an ARC of this emotional masterpiece!
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