A Heartfelt Journey Through Grief and Ghosts: Review of Remain
When I first heard that Remain was written by Nicholas Sparks and M. Night Shyamalan, I had to pause for a moment. Certainly, this unique pairing was not something I anticipated for 2025! But goodness, what a delightful surprise it turned out to be. This book swept me off my feet and, admittedly, left me clutching my tissues in the way that only a Sparks story can. Yet, it transcended the typical romance to delve into the supernatural—a blend beautifully executed by these two immensely talented authors.
At its heart, Remain is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and the invisible threads that connect us to the ones we’ve lost. We meet Tate Donovan, an architect grappling with overwhelming loss after the death of his beloved sister. He’s a character that feels so real—a beautiful but broken soul, navigating life while wrestling with depression. His journey, aided by a supportive friend, Oscar, takes him to Cape Cod, where he unwittingly crosses paths with Wren Tobin, a spirit who died under mysterious circumstances that haunt her even in the afterlife.
What I found particularly enchanting was how Tate and Wren’s connection blossomed amidst their mutual heartaches. Though Wren exists as a somewhat mischievous ghost—casually practicing yoga and making playful appearances—the depth of their emotional bond is what truly shines throughout the narrative. Quotes from the book like “Our life’s journey is our own, but wouldn’t it be better with someone by your side?” encapsulate the magical essence of Remain—the universal need for connection, both in life and beyond.
Sparks’ writing is, as always, lyrical and emotive, complemented beautifully by Shyamalan’s skill in crafting eerie atmospheres. Their combined styles create a reading experience that is both magical and haunting. I was particularly struck by the representation of Wren’s dual existence: sweet during the day and sorrowful at night. It felt like a dance between hope and despair, something I can only describe as poetically unsettling.
That said, the repeated thematic elements did start to wear on me, leading to my decision to remove a star from an otherwise perfect rating. It occasionally felt like certain ideas of loss and love were reiterated too often for my taste. However, this didn’t overshadow the emotional impact. The tears flowed freely, and like most great reads, I found myself unable to look away.
If you’re searching for a book that dives into the complexities of human emotion while adding a supernatural twist, look no further. Remain beautifully intertwines love and loss and challenges the reader to think about how we cope with grief and the memories we cling to. It is a tale that encourages us to cherish those connections, both past and present.
Mark your calendars for October 14th, 2025! I truly believe Remain will resonate with many readers, just as it did with me—and yes, Tate Donovan will hold a cherished place in my heart for years to come. Thank you, NetGalley and Random House, for the advanced copy! This journey was one I’ll never forget. If you’re ready for a deep, emotional rollercoaster that flirts with the supernatural while exploring themes of friendship and love, give Remain a read—you won’t regret it!