What do you think?
Rate this book
Waysider
That was the moment Cassandra Ryan realized the truth—she was going to die.
And then she did.
When twenty-year-old Cass Ryan is pulled out of the Hudson River, she’s officially dead for four minutes. She doesn’t know anything about the boy who pushed her in. She doesn’t know why she’s been hallucinating since coming back. What she does know is that the violent visions feel terrifyingly real, and that her life will never be the same.
Enter The Else & Bellows Institute.
It turns out that Cass’s visions aren’t visions at all—she’s a voyant, and she can see the dead. Spirits and memories are trapped between this world and the next, and because of this dark ability, Cass receives an invitation to one of the most prestigious schools in the country. To ease the burden on her family and gain control over her power, she accepts.
But nothing at the institute is what it seems. There are secrets in the hallways and whispers in the shadows. Her new classes are strange, and some of her classmates are even stranger. There’s also an unsolved mystery on campus, a decades-old crime that no one seems to care about solving. No one except the ghost of the girl who was murdered… and Cass. She quickly realizes the real challenge won’t be passing her first year as a voyant.
It will be surviving it.
And then she did.
When twenty-year-old Cass Ryan is pulled out of the Hudson River, she’s officially dead for four minutes. She doesn’t know anything about the boy who pushed her in. She doesn’t know why she’s been hallucinating since coming back. What she does know is that the violent visions feel terrifyingly real, and that her life will never be the same.
Enter The Else & Bellows Institute.
It turns out that Cass’s visions aren’t visions at all—she’s a voyant, and she can see the dead. Spirits and memories are trapped between this world and the next, and because of this dark ability, Cass receives an invitation to one of the most prestigious schools in the country. To ease the burden on her family and gain control over her power, she accepts.
But nothing at the institute is what it seems. There are secrets in the hallways and whispers in the shadows. Her new classes are strange, and some of her classmates are even stranger. There’s also an unsolved mystery on campus, a decades-old crime that no one seems to care about solving. No one except the ghost of the girl who was murdered… and Cass. She quickly realizes the real challenge won’t be passing her first year as a voyant.
It will be surviving it.
First published June 5, 2024
About the author
K.J. Sutton
11 books1,740 followersK.J. Sutton is the Amazon bestselling author of Fortuna Sworn, which sold over 100,000 copies worldwide. She has received multiple awards for her work, including a Kirkus Star.
K.J. grew up in Minnesota, where she graduated with a master’s degree in Creative Writing from Hamline University. Now she wanders the country with her two dogs—she’s probably packing to move as you read this. When she isn’t moving or writing in a coffee shop somewhere, K.J. spends her time traveling the world and working on new degrees.
She also pens young adult novels as Kelsey Sutton.
K.J. grew up in Minnesota, where she graduated with a master’s degree in Creative Writing from Hamline University. Now she wanders the country with her two dogs—she’s probably packing to move as you read this. When she isn’t moving or writing in a coffee shop somewhere, K.J. spends her time traveling the world and working on new degrees.
She also pens young adult novels as Kelsey Sutton.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
July 8, 2024
3.75 rounded up ✧✿
"That was the moment Cassandra Ryan realized the truth---she was going to die.
And then she did"
Note: I dont round up books but my reading experience was hindered because of the things going on with my life rather than in the book itself so I decided to round the rating upto a 4 because it was enjoyable.
This was my first time reading K.J. Stutton and I have no regrets because this was such a different experience and one that I actually wanted and tbh I would love to see this being adapted because this story deserves to be on the screen because it' was just so easy to visualise and I would've flied through this book if I did not have so many things going on in my life but the writing style was beautiful, the way, the way she switched between past and present povs and managed to make them both interesting was something that I really liked. The way she showcased grief and how it completely takes over ones life was so beautifully done and the first 10 chapters were the highlight of this book for me like those were so damn gripping! I also liked how fast paced it was and I would've absolutely flew through it if I wasn't occupied. It for the most part managed to keep me entertained.
The story follows two characters Cass and Cal, both of them being siblings. Cass goes through a near death experience (NDE) and is invited into The Else & Bellows Institute after encountering unforeseen circumstances and as for Cal I won't disclose anything further because I want y'all to be shocked the way I was. Cass was such a fun, complex character to read about like these are the type of main characters that I wanna read about because Cass was strong and her reactions felt so real and that's something I loved about it and Cal, I loved him so much. I loved how he was the exact opposite of Cass and his storyline itself was so gripping. What I loved the most was how well written the siblings bond was like it's easily one of the best ones I have ever seen because it was so realistic because they had fall-outs and they moments where they would do anything for each other.
The plot overall was entertaining however I just felt too drawn away from it and this is where it's my fault 😭 it's because when I got this arc I was having my exams so I was taking this slow and I felt disconnected to it and then when I finally regained my momentum and then Eid came and I was busy for the whole week and then my grandfather got sick so I just took some physical copies and stayed at the hospital and then he passed away and I did not feel like reading at all so safe to say that June was not the right reading month for this book. I liked how I connected with the characters regardless of what was going on but the plot lost me.
Another thing that I had a problem with but was related to the book was it's cast for characters. There were so many characters in this book that it was hard to keep them in mind and when they appeared I would often be lost as to who they were and it made me dizzy ngl 😭
And finally the thing is that the first 40% is hands down some of the best content I've read but the patch 41-70% dragged imo and it maybe because of the thing stay were happening with me but it did not manage to hold me the way the first half and the last half did.
There are still many unresolved things which i would like to read about in the sequel 'Airweavers' so I'll be keeling an eye out for that and I would definitely recommend that you read this book because it is worth it!!
____
I heard this was like stranger things and is a paranormal thriller and I said HELL YEAH!
*Thank you to the author for giving me an E-ARC of this book*
"That was the moment Cassandra Ryan realized the truth---she was going to die.
And then she did"
Note: I dont round up books but my reading experience was hindered because of the things going on with my life rather than in the book itself so I decided to round the rating upto a 4 because it was enjoyable.
This was my first time reading K.J. Stutton and I have no regrets because this was such a different experience and one that I actually wanted and tbh I would love to see this being adapted because this story deserves to be on the screen because it' was just so easy to visualise and I would've flied through this book if I did not have so many things going on in my life but the writing style was beautiful, the way, the way she switched between past and present povs and managed to make them both interesting was something that I really liked. The way she showcased grief and how it completely takes over ones life was so beautifully done and the first 10 chapters were the highlight of this book for me like those were so damn gripping! I also liked how fast paced it was and I would've absolutely flew through it if I wasn't occupied. It for the most part managed to keep me entertained.
The story follows two characters Cass and Cal, both of them being siblings. Cass goes through a near death experience (NDE) and is invited into The Else & Bellows Institute after encountering unforeseen circumstances and as for Cal I won't disclose anything further because I want y'all to be shocked the way I was. Cass was such a fun, complex character to read about like these are the type of main characters that I wanna read about because Cass was strong and her reactions felt so real and that's something I loved about it and Cal, I loved him so much. I loved how he was the exact opposite of Cass and his storyline itself was so gripping. What I loved the most was how well written the siblings bond was like it's easily one of the best ones I have ever seen because it was so realistic because they had fall-outs and they moments where they would do anything for each other.
The plot overall was entertaining however I just felt too drawn away from it and this is where it's my fault 😭 it's because when I got this arc I was having my exams so I was taking this slow and I felt disconnected to it and then when I finally regained my momentum and then Eid came and I was busy for the whole week and then my grandfather got sick so I just took some physical copies and stayed at the hospital and then he passed away and I did not feel like reading at all so safe to say that June was not the right reading month for this book. I liked how I connected with the characters regardless of what was going on but the plot lost me.
Another thing that I had a problem with but was related to the book was it's cast for characters. There were so many characters in this book that it was hard to keep them in mind and when they appeared I would often be lost as to who they were and it made me dizzy ngl 😭
And finally the thing is that the first 40% is hands down some of the best content I've read but the patch 41-70% dragged imo and it maybe because of the thing stay were happening with me but it did not manage to hold me the way the first half and the last half did.
There are still many unresolved things which i would like to read about in the sequel 'Airweavers' so I'll be keeling an eye out for that and I would definitely recommend that you read this book because it is worth it!!
____
I heard this was like stranger things and is a paranormal thriller and I said HELL YEAH!
*Thank you to the author for giving me an E-ARC of this book*
June 29, 2024
꒰ ִ ֺ ⊹ if you think about the people in the world who everyone remembers, the people who actually made something of themselves? They aren’t usually known for sticking to the status quo or following in someone else’s footsteps. Maybe being the black sheep just means we’re supposed to make our own legacies ⊹ ֺ ִ ꒱
trigger warnings - scenes or themes of profanity, gore, suicide, murder, and dubious consent.
⌞ thanks again to the author for the arc in exchange of my honest review⌝
Waysider follows the story of Cass Rayn, the girl whose life changed forever after her accident when she was declared dead for four minutes. After Cass's near-death experience (NDE), she begins seeing violent visions that turn out to be real encounters with ghosts (revenants). This newfound ability lands her an invitation to The Else & Bellows Institute, a prestigious school for people with unique powers like hers (vayants), to gain control over her powers.
As Cass navigates her new life and eerie surroundings, she encounters a ghost desperate for justice. Unraveling the mystery of a decades-old murder no one else cares about becomes Cass's true test.
This was my first time reading one of K.J. Sutton's books, and it's safe to say that I'm in love with her writing style. I loved how the writing was so easy to read; it makes you fly through the book, and at the same time, it was full of emotions and so vivid. I also loved that it was in third-person POV.
I felt this book had many plots, not just one, and the best thing is that it didn't feel chaotic. Every one was done in a good way and seamlessly connected to the others. Anyway, the plot was engaging and captivating. I found myself, after every chapter, left with more questions and eager for more answers, and more and more.
I really loved that it had a dual timeline. The difference between the two timelines wasn't really big; it was just months. But for me, I felt that it was a good addition to the story.
Also, this book was set in the '80s, and I was really excited about that, but I didn't really feel that they were in the '80s. I don't know why, but I didn't get the '80s vibes, and that's something I didn't like.
The story follows the two main characters, the twins Cass and Cal, who are the exact opposite of each other. While Cass is known for her recklessness and never following the rules, Cal is known for his politeness, caring nature, and always following the rules.
Despite that, their bond is unbreakable. I loved how they were always there for each other no matter what happened between them. No matter how much they argued or fought, they never strayed away from each other.
I think the thing I loved most about this book was how the characters were written. I could connect so easily to both Cass and Cal. All the time I was reading, I was feeling their raw emotions, not just the good or bad ones, but all of them. I was feeling their personality depth. These two characters were so vividly written.
I loved Cass's character so much. I loved how she was not that weak, helpless girl who fears anything and everything and can't communicate, nor was she the fierce character who doesn't fear anything and never lets herself feel.
Cass was a normal girl who was brave and didn't allow anyone to talk bad about her or bully her. But she also had fears. She's a girl who found herself in a situation she never imagined herself to be in, encountering things she never imagined were real in the first place.
I really hope we get to know the other characters, Michael, Sinister, and Teddy, more vividly in the next book like we knew the twins. I actually loved all of them, but the three of them can't be the love interest at the same time because this will be so hard.
┈ 18 ≀ mᥲy ≀ 24 .ᐟ
៹ ࣪ ָ֢ ρrᥱ rᥱᥲd - ୭ৎ thank u so much to the author for reaching out and sending the ARC to me! this one seems really good, and I'm so excited to read it and I actually think I'm gonna like it?
May 28, 2024
4 stars
‘Waysider’ embraces a paranormal narrative, depicting the abnormal lives of the Ryan twins as they embark on a fresh journey following a tragic, life-altering accident. the dite accident claimed Cal's life and morphed Cass, who, through her near-death experience, became a medium—or more precisely, a voyant. her newly acquired gift opened the doors to one of the most prestigious schools of parapsychology, Else & Bellows.
the twins were at the antipodes of each other. while Cass was a tornado, full of energy and intensity, Cal was a gentle breeze, calm and soothing. I absolutely adored how their contrasting personalities counterbalanced each other. the author masterfully conveyed their well-forged bond, capturing the depth and complexity of their unconventional sibling relationship where Cal was trapped in real world as a ghost determined to protect his twin and family at all costs.
the main plotline centered on uncovering the culprit behind the masquerade that costed Cal's life, while simultaneously tracking Cass as she navigated her new studies and attempted to solve numerous cold cases involving the ghosts haunting her on campus. I genuinely appreciated how each subplot intertwined seamlessly by the end, weaving together a intricately crafted, cohesive narrative.
the book concluded leaving me with several lingering questions, eager for more insights into the lives of Cal and Laura. I found myself eagerly anticipating their chapters, relishing in their encounters and keenly following their twists and turns with each page turn. I'm particularly intrigued by Cass and Michael's bond and fervently await further exploration of their relationship in the next book.
many thanks to the author for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review 💜
——————
stranger things meet ghostbusters🤝🏼 IM IN
“If she was chaos and night, Cal was calm and sunlight.”
‘Waysider’ embraces a paranormal narrative, depicting the abnormal lives of the Ryan twins as they embark on a fresh journey following a tragic, life-altering accident. the dite accident claimed Cal's life and morphed Cass, who, through her near-death experience, became a medium—or more precisely, a voyant. her newly acquired gift opened the doors to one of the most prestigious schools of parapsychology, Else & Bellows.
the twins were at the antipodes of each other. while Cass was a tornado, full of energy and intensity, Cal was a gentle breeze, calm and soothing. I absolutely adored how their contrasting personalities counterbalanced each other. the author masterfully conveyed their well-forged bond, capturing the depth and complexity of their unconventional sibling relationship where Cal was trapped in real world as a ghost determined to protect his twin and family at all costs.
the main plotline centered on uncovering the culprit behind the masquerade that costed Cal's life, while simultaneously tracking Cass as she navigated her new studies and attempted to solve numerous cold cases involving the ghosts haunting her on campus. I genuinely appreciated how each subplot intertwined seamlessly by the end, weaving together a intricately crafted, cohesive narrative.
the book concluded leaving me with several lingering questions, eager for more insights into the lives of Cal and Laura. I found myself eagerly anticipating their chapters, relishing in their encounters and keenly following their twists and turns with each page turn. I'm particularly intrigued by Cass and Michael's bond and fervently await further exploration of their relationship in the next book.
many thanks to the author for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review 💜
——————
stranger things meet ghostbusters🤝🏼 IM IN
June 9, 2024
"If you go wandering through the dark, you’re going to find things you don’t like."
Waysider is a paranormal narrative that follows the story of the Ryan twins - Cassandra and Cal. Due to an unfortunate and mysterious incident, Cal is robbed of his life whereas Cassandra survives a near death experience. This results in a newfound power that was granted to her where she is able to see ghosts (revenants) and is identified as a voyant who is offered to attend the most prestigious school called Else & Bellows for people like her. The story trails along Cassandra navigating her way through the new school unraveling cold cases, old mysteries, and dangerous secrets while Cal accepts the blatant fact that he is a revenant and learns to adapt to the new way of life.
I absolutely adore the twins duo. Cal being calm, collected, perfect child and the embodiment of sunshine whereas Cass being the exact opposite - a wildfire that’s chaotic, reckless and fearless. The addition of one being a ghost and one being a living human being was an interesting plot line, as the inseparable twins encounter and discover revelations, they are not ready for. I loved how though they were growing distant, keeping secrets to protect one another and still adjusting to the sharp, unexpected turn that evening took, they never strayed far from each other and were always there to have each other's back. Their relationship was portrayed in such a raw yet heartwarming way I absolutely loved their bond.
The romance was a beautiful incorporation, and it was admirable how well it ran alongside the plot line without one overpowering the other. From what I have gathered there is three potential love interests and usually I hate reverse harems but since the author went ahead and made all of them breathtaking, I have decided to give one to Cass, give one to my bestie Kenz and take one for myself (let me be delulu hush). Overall, I had a pleasant time reading this! I can’t wait to see who Cass ends up with and how the rest of the series unravels.
“If she was chaos and night, Cal was calm and sunlight.”
⊹ many thanks to the author for providing the arc in exchange for a honest review !! ⊹
Waysider is a paranormal narrative that follows the story of the Ryan twins - Cassandra and Cal. Due to an unfortunate and mysterious incident, Cal is robbed of his life whereas Cassandra survives a near death experience. This results in a newfound power that was granted to her where she is able to see ghosts (revenants) and is identified as a voyant who is offered to attend the most prestigious school called Else & Bellows for people like her. The story trails along Cassandra navigating her way through the new school unraveling cold cases, old mysteries, and dangerous secrets while Cal accepts the blatant fact that he is a revenant and learns to adapt to the new way of life.
I absolutely adore the twins duo. Cal being calm, collected, perfect child and the embodiment of sunshine whereas Cass being the exact opposite - a wildfire that’s chaotic, reckless and fearless. The addition of one being a ghost and one being a living human being was an interesting plot line, as the inseparable twins encounter and discover revelations, they are not ready for. I loved how though they were growing distant, keeping secrets to protect one another and still adjusting to the sharp, unexpected turn that evening took, they never strayed far from each other and were always there to have each other's back. Their relationship was portrayed in such a raw yet heartwarming way I absolutely loved their bond.
if you think about the people in the world who everyone remembers, the people who actually made something of themselves? They aren’t usually known for sticking to the status quo or following in someone else’s footsteps. Maybe being the black sheep just means we’re supposed to make our own legacies 💜I’ve never read a S.K. Sutton book before, but I've grown fond of her writing style. I love how it's fast paced and uncomplicated yet encapsulates the right emotions in every letter written. It also gives a feel of reading a children's book not by the standard but simply makes me feel giddy and nostalgic from the thrill and fun. There were quite a few subplots in this book, and I love how she seamlessly weaved each other together, having a sense of flow in every one of them that by the end of it you can see it coming together and forming art itself. The plot line was captivating leaving many questions unanswered and I couldn't be more hyped to continue this series and relish in Cass and Cal’s journey of mysteries and surprises.
The romance was a beautiful incorporation, and it was admirable how well it ran alongside the plot line without one overpowering the other. From what I have gathered there is three potential love interests and usually I hate reverse harems but since the author went ahead and made all of them breathtaking, I have decided to give one to Cass, give one to my bestie Kenz and take one for myself (let me be delulu hush). Overall, I had a pleasant time reading this! I can’t wait to see who Cass ends up with and how the rest of the series unravels.
“If she was chaos and night, Cal was calm and sunlight.”
⊹ many thanks to the author for providing the arc in exchange for a honest review !! ⊹
Want to read
May 19, 2024Pardon my French, ladies, but this cover
fucks
.
.
Want to read
June 2, 2024gorgeous book cover ✔️
stranger things vibes ✔️
ghosts ✔️
mystery ✔️
three hot men on the cover ✔️
I’m in, June 11th is the day I’m dropping $22.99 on this book
stranger things vibes ✔️
ghosts ✔️
mystery ✔️
three hot men on the cover ✔️
I’m in, June 11th is the day I’m dropping $22.99 on this book
June 12, 2024
I am officially intrigued. And I'm so happy about it.
Why? Because for once I took advantage of an author DMing me access to their upcoming release instead of immediately deleting or ignoring said DM. Even knowing it could've gone terribly terribly wrong. But p h e w it didn't. And again, I am intrigued. But can we just take a moment to appreciate that cover? Because let's be real that was the reason I accepted the ARC.
This was my first read by this author and already I am eagerly anticipating the follow-up (will it just be a sequel? trilogy? drawn out series? I don't know yet but I'm ready for any of it). We had a very mystery-heavy instalment in this opener between not knowing the reason behind the events that lead to Cass' abilities as a voyant and her brother's death, why she was capable of attracting (tee hee) so many revenants (ghosts), and in addition, a very specific and urgent unknown surrounding the death of a student whose body was discovered shortly after Cass begins attending the, to paraphrase, Institute for Voyants.
Plus it's set in the eighties but doesn't hit you over the head with that fact. It could absolutely be set in a more modern (she says, pretending the eighties is still modern) time except for the lack of cellphones, a few random name drops from the time, and the occasional usage of tubular. I liked that a lot.
As for the stars of the show, I'll admit that Cass' personality didn't feel all that well defined outside of the moments where she was either hyperfocused on a mission or doing her best not to be afraid -- which, hey, kudos, because that's so real. But considering her circumstances and what she had been through, I could mostly forgive it. And there were a few quiet moments where she did seem to shine; and thankfully they didn't all take place when in the presence of maybe-possibly-potential love interests. Though on that note.. I can't wait to see which direction she goes in. But when it comes to said maybe-possibly-potential love interests, it's hard to have a favourite when literally all of them have secrets and are shrouded in mystery of one flavour or another. The upside to having to juggle so many is that one might already have been friend-zoned.. unless I'm reading too much into a brief interaction at the end but I hope it's true.
My few nitpicks are to do with : one, when we had scenes that leaned into romance, or flirting, or warm and fuzzies, the word choice used for when Cass observed her own attraction was a little weird and always jumped out at me, which subsequently pulled me out of the story. Can't say I was a fan but, again, it's likely a personal weirdness for me. And two, the urgency and unknown surrounding the mystery of the student's death was.. well. Kind of anticlimactic. There are a lot of things happening in this story, multiple plotlines and concerns, a few side quests, and none of that felt overly busy or chaotic, it all fit together pretty well, but at the same time this particular plot point resolved really quickly and maybe that's because it doesn't play into the bigger story? It was more like a mystery of the week that ended up being a vehicle to move one bit of plot forward. But even still. Considering how Cass' physical well-being was under thread a few times, it just seemed very fast and played out somewhat unexpectedly. I almost would've preferred an extra fifty to a hundred pages to let that breathe and build some more.
At it's heart, though there was only low level buzzings of romance, the real love story here is between Cass and her twin, Cal. In life they were opposites, with Cass being a wild troublemaker, and Cal being the golden boy. And I wonder, with some of what was hinted near the end, will we see them start to.. swap? Regardless, even if I'm way off base, the love that the author put into this relationship, this bond, really cemented the whole world. Even as their circumstances have (obviously) changed, even as it has fundamentally and literally changed them and sends them pursuing different things, sometimes forcing them to keep secrets, that bond is still so present and so strong.
While there are some thrills and chills, being a mystery thriller with paranormal elements, this isn't too scary and isn't all that graphic or violent, so if your tolerance for both is low, this might still work for you. It may push your limits a bit and get your heart racing and have you peeking between your fingers once or twice, but overall it's not going to totally freak you out. I hope.
If you're looking for something with the vibes of NINTH HOUSE, the mood lighting and setting (and even soundtrack) of Stranger Things, with a dash of Silence of the Lambs, a sprinkle of Ghostbusters, and a teasing hint of Ghost (maybe! or maybe it's wishful thinking..), you should probably give WAYSIDER a try. And yes, I know that's a lot of comps. Sorry not sorry.
3.75 stars
** I received an ARC from the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Why? Because for once I took advantage of an author DMing me access to their upcoming release instead of immediately deleting or ignoring said DM. Even knowing it could've gone terribly terribly wrong. But p h e w it didn't. And again, I am intrigued. But can we just take a moment to appreciate that cover? Because let's be real that was the reason I accepted the ARC.
This was my first read by this author and already I am eagerly anticipating the follow-up (will it just be a sequel? trilogy? drawn out series? I don't know yet but I'm ready for any of it). We had a very mystery-heavy instalment in this opener between not knowing the reason behind the events that lead to Cass' abilities as a voyant and her brother's death, why she was capable of attracting (tee hee) so many revenants (ghosts), and in addition, a very specific and urgent unknown surrounding the death of a student whose body was discovered shortly after Cass begins attending the, to paraphrase, Institute for Voyants.
Plus it's set in the eighties but doesn't hit you over the head with that fact. It could absolutely be set in a more modern (she says, pretending the eighties is still modern) time except for the lack of cellphones, a few random name drops from the time, and the occasional usage of tubular. I liked that a lot.
As for the stars of the show, I'll admit that Cass' personality didn't feel all that well defined outside of the moments where she was either hyperfocused on a mission or doing her best not to be afraid -- which, hey, kudos, because that's so real. But considering her circumstances and what she had been through, I could mostly forgive it. And there were a few quiet moments where she did seem to shine; and thankfully they didn't all take place when in the presence of maybe-possibly-potential love interests. Though on that note.. I can't wait to see which direction she goes in. But when it comes to said maybe-possibly-potential love interests, it's hard to have a favourite when literally all of them have secrets and are shrouded in mystery of one flavour or another. The upside to having to juggle so many is that one might already have been friend-zoned.. unless I'm reading too much into a brief interaction at the end but I hope it's true.
My few nitpicks are to do with : one, when we had scenes that leaned into romance, or flirting, or warm and fuzzies, the word choice used for when Cass observed her own attraction was a little weird and always jumped out at me, which subsequently pulled me out of the story. Can't say I was a fan but, again, it's likely a personal weirdness for me. And two, the urgency and unknown surrounding the mystery of the student's death was.. well. Kind of anticlimactic. There are a lot of things happening in this story, multiple plotlines and concerns, a few side quests, and none of that felt overly busy or chaotic, it all fit together pretty well, but at the same time this particular plot point resolved really quickly and maybe that's because it doesn't play into the bigger story? It was more like a mystery of the week that ended up being a vehicle to move one bit of plot forward. But even still. Considering how Cass' physical well-being was under thread a few times, it just seemed very fast and played out somewhat unexpectedly. I almost would've preferred an extra fifty to a hundred pages to let that breathe and build some more.
At it's heart, though there was only low level buzzings of romance, the real love story here is between Cass and her twin, Cal. In life they were opposites, with Cass being a wild troublemaker, and Cal being the golden boy. And I wonder, with some of what was hinted near the end, will we see them start to.. swap? Regardless, even if I'm way off base, the love that the author put into this relationship, this bond, really cemented the whole world. Even as their circumstances have (obviously) changed, even as it has fundamentally and literally changed them and sends them pursuing different things, sometimes forcing them to keep secrets, that bond is still so present and so strong.
While there are some thrills and chills, being a mystery thriller with paranormal elements, this isn't too scary and isn't all that graphic or violent, so if your tolerance for both is low, this might still work for you. It may push your limits a bit and get your heart racing and have you peeking between your fingers once or twice, but overall it's not going to totally freak you out. I hope.
If you're looking for something with the vibes of NINTH HOUSE, the mood lighting and setting (and even soundtrack) of Stranger Things, with a dash of Silence of the Lambs, a sprinkle of Ghostbusters, and a teasing hint of Ghost (maybe! or maybe it's wishful thinking..), you should probably give WAYSIDER a try. And yes, I know that's a lot of comps. Sorry not sorry.
3.75 stars
** I received an ARC from the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
June 29, 2024
Literally had the best time, who doesn’t love a book with a magic school and the occult 🤍💀
Currently reading
July 11, 2024because Clace said so<33
June 7, 2024
4⭐️PUT THIS ON YOUR TBR IMMEDIATELY cause this was me reading this book: 
June 12, 2024
I received a copy from the author for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own."
Overall Rating : B+
"Darkness began to crown in, and the agony slowly faded. All the noise in her head went quiet, and the boy wasn't even holding onto her anymore. That was the moment Cassandra Ryan realized the truth - she was going to die. And then she did."
Cass and her twin brother Cal are as ordinary as you can get. Cass, worried to tell her parents about ehr academic probation. Cal, getting ready to be drafted for a football scholarship. Then, while driving back home, Cass sees a boy on a bridge, and then tragedy happens. Soon, Cass finds out she is what is called A Voyant - a person who can sense and see the supernatural. Along with Call, she heads to Else & Bellows, a college for those to hone their talents. But danger is following her, and she might not get to survive the second time around.
Was told this was a mix of Silence of the Lambs and Stranger Things and was accurate as hell! First I've ever read from this author and they didn't disappoint. The characters, story, plot, it kept me hooked all throughout. I really felt the connection between Cass and Cal. Accurate sibling relationships is a must for me and the way the bicker and fight but still had each others back was good to see.
The other characters, while not completely apart of the story, had their own personality and didn't feel like extras. We also get some hotties - not complaining there 😉 - Sinister, Teddy Crane, and Michael. They also were so refreshingly unique that it didn't feel like Cass was going for the same guy in different font. (Me personally would be going for the Golden Retriever character and steer clear of the dead one, but to each their own). I also really enjoyed how although she is attracted to them all, it's not her priority. She's got other major shit to focus on and I'm glad it didn't sidetrack her. I really enjoyed Cal's POV thought and brought another side of the same story we wouldn't get otherwise.
The only thing that kind of bugged me was that the plot was sporadic at times and it was a little hard to figure out exactly Cass's main goal was. She helps a ghost but not really and then also another ghost but not really again? And then there's a serial killer randomly? Just a bit confusing but that might just be me.
A cliffhanger that gives more questions than answers but that just makes me more anxious to find them out. People should definitely give this series a chance so they too can suffer along with me until the next book arrives! 😎👍
Overall Rating : B+
"Darkness began to crown in, and the agony slowly faded. All the noise in her head went quiet, and the boy wasn't even holding onto her anymore. That was the moment Cassandra Ryan realized the truth - she was going to die. And then she did."
Cass and her twin brother Cal are as ordinary as you can get. Cass, worried to tell her parents about ehr academic probation. Cal, getting ready to be drafted for a football scholarship. Then, while driving back home, Cass sees a boy on a bridge, and then tragedy happens. Soon, Cass finds out she is what is called A Voyant - a person who can sense and see the supernatural. Along with Call, she heads to Else & Bellows, a college for those to hone their talents. But danger is following her, and she might not get to survive the second time around.
Was told this was a mix of Silence of the Lambs and Stranger Things and was accurate as hell! First I've ever read from this author and they didn't disappoint. The characters, story, plot, it kept me hooked all throughout. I really felt the connection between Cass and Cal. Accurate sibling relationships is a must for me and the way the bicker and fight but still had each others back was good to see.
The other characters, while not completely apart of the story, had their own personality and didn't feel like extras. We also get some hotties - not complaining there 😉 - Sinister, Teddy Crane, and Michael. They also were so refreshingly unique that it didn't feel like Cass was going for the same guy in different font. (Me personally would be going for the Golden Retriever character and steer clear of the dead one, but to each their own). I also really enjoyed how although she is attracted to them all, it's not her priority. She's got other major shit to focus on and I'm glad it didn't sidetrack her. I really enjoyed Cal's POV thought and brought another side of the same story we wouldn't get otherwise.
The only thing that kind of bugged me was that the plot was sporadic at times and it was a little hard to figure out exactly Cass's main goal was. She helps a ghost but not really and then also another ghost but not really again? And then there's a serial killer randomly? Just a bit confusing but that might just be me.
A cliffhanger that gives more questions than answers but that just makes me more anxious to find them out. People should definitely give this series a chance so they too can suffer along with me until the next book arrives! 😎👍
July 7, 2024
Reading this book was like going into the longest and highest roller coaster in the world where there are twists and turns at every turn but at some point, you just go "Ok, I had fun and now I want it to stop".
⚜ rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟
⚜Genre: Paranormal Thriller
⚜Theme: Ghost- Paranormal School Thriller/Crime (It is not a romance though there are few romantic elements)
⚜Targeted audience: New Adults - 16+
⚜Characters: Cassie / Cal
⚜Representation: side characters LGBTQ+, disability
⚜Pace: Medium
⚜TW: death, murder, self-harm, suicide, horror elements
⚜ tropes: ghost hunters, paranormal school,
⚜ POV: double third person
⚜ spice: 0.5 🌶
⚜standalone: apparently not. Book 2 comes out in 2025
⚜Ending: unresolved
I can count on two hands the books that made me want to pull out an all-nighter to finish them, and this one was one of them.
Once I really started it, I couldn't put it down
SO many things were happening that if you blinked you felt you missed something
The blurb presented this as Stranger Things meets Ghostbusters and it absolutely is especially since the events take place in 1980s.
Cass and Cal are twins. The former is the epitome of a rebellious teenager and the latter is the goodie-good son, but they are as thick as conjoined twins. On their way back home, Cass sees a boy on a bridge attempting to jump, trying to help she falls with him. She survives only to find out that not only she was proclaimed dead for 4 minutes but her twin Cal died trying to save her life.
Cass is approached years later by Mrs Carter, the Headmistress of a College for the Paranormal, where they only accept people who have had NDE (NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE).
In the school, Cass, while facing many strange and abnormal events, has to also fight internally to regain herself and find her purpose.
What I loved
1- how the writer described perfectly the devastation one goes through upon losing a loved one. Something inside you breaks, not just grief. It is not easy to pull yourself back from such a traumatic loss.
2- That the University, Else and Bellows, didn't have an age standard. You could be 18 or 25 to start as long as you had NDE. Cass is 20 and she is in year 1.
3- The fast pace events. You are never bored. every chapter feels like a whole episode of Stranger Things. So this was like a 36-episode series.
4- How, even though you almost reach the end and you feel like nothing will be resolved, many things come together. There are still unresolved issues of course.
5- That Cass is a morally grey character. She is not this holiest of holly girls who is "Woo is me" look at me I went through trauma. I loved that when it was needed, she just went dark and did what she had to do.
What felt short
1- I did not know that this book was book 1 in a series at first and that is my fault completely. I had to stop reading at 80% to realize that because MANY MANY things are left unanswered. In fact, everything is as ambiguous as the first chapter. I would accept that since there will be book 2 hopefully, however I felt that at least some things should have been cleared.
2- I wanted to know more about the school. When Cass arrived, we knew there are five houses and a six one for those who still are uncertain where they belong, Waysider. I felt that instead of repeating certain things, we could have known more about these houses.
Cass was supposed to attend classes there, though we see her in some scenes having those, many chapters just disregard that. IT IS A PARANORMAL SCHOOL WITH VOYARS WHO COULD DO INCREDIBLE THINGS. give me more of that!
3- SO MANY CHARACTERS AND EVENTS. It felt like in every chapter a new character is introduced and each is so interesting that they deserve a book of their own. You do not get to take a breath, everything happens so fast that it leaves you asking how? what? why?
but all in all, I truely enjoyed this book so much and looking forward to reading the next one.
A huge thank you for the author for providing the Ebook ARC for this book. It was such a wild ride
PS: there were some errors and editing issues but they are minor and did not affect this review
⚜ rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟
⚜Genre: Paranormal Thriller
⚜Theme: Ghost- Paranormal School Thriller/Crime (It is not a romance though there are few romantic elements)
⚜Targeted audience: New Adults - 16+
⚜Characters: Cassie / Cal
⚜Representation: side characters LGBTQ+, disability
⚜Pace: Medium
⚜TW: death, murder, self-harm, suicide, horror elements
⚜ tropes: ghost hunters, paranormal school,
⚜ POV: double third person
⚜ spice: 0.5 🌶
⚜standalone: apparently not. Book 2 comes out in 2025
⚜Ending: unresolved
I can count on two hands the books that made me want to pull out an all-nighter to finish them, and this one was one of them.
Once I really started it, I couldn't put it down
SO many things were happening that if you blinked you felt you missed something
The blurb presented this as Stranger Things meets Ghostbusters and it absolutely is especially since the events take place in 1980s.
Cass and Cal are twins. The former is the epitome of a rebellious teenager and the latter is the goodie-good son, but they are as thick as conjoined twins. On their way back home, Cass sees a boy on a bridge attempting to jump, trying to help she falls with him. She survives only to find out that not only she was proclaimed dead for 4 minutes but her twin Cal died trying to save her life.
Cass is approached years later by Mrs Carter, the Headmistress of a College for the Paranormal, where they only accept people who have had NDE (NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE).
In the school, Cass, while facing many strange and abnormal events, has to also fight internally to regain herself and find her purpose.
What I loved
1- how the writer described perfectly the devastation one goes through upon losing a loved one. Something inside you breaks, not just grief. It is not easy to pull yourself back from such a traumatic loss.
2- That the University, Else and Bellows, didn't have an age standard. You could be 18 or 25 to start as long as you had NDE. Cass is 20 and she is in year 1.
3- The fast pace events. You are never bored. every chapter feels like a whole episode of Stranger Things. So this was like a 36-episode series.
4- How, even though you almost reach the end and you feel like nothing will be resolved, many things come together. There are still unresolved issues of course.
5- That Cass is a morally grey character. She is not this holiest of holly girls who is "Woo is me" look at me I went through trauma. I loved that when it was needed, she just went dark and did what she had to do.
What felt short
1- I did not know that this book was book 1 in a series at first and that is my fault completely. I had to stop reading at 80% to realize that because MANY MANY things are left unanswered. In fact, everything is as ambiguous as the first chapter. I would accept that since there will be book 2 hopefully, however I felt that at least some things should have been cleared.
2- I wanted to know more about the school. When Cass arrived, we knew there are five houses and a six one for those who still are uncertain where they belong, Waysider. I felt that instead of repeating certain things, we could have known more about these houses.
Cass was supposed to attend classes there, though we see her in some scenes having those, many chapters just disregard that. IT IS A PARANORMAL SCHOOL WITH VOYARS WHO COULD DO INCREDIBLE THINGS. give me more of that!
3- SO MANY CHARACTERS AND EVENTS. It felt like in every chapter a new character is introduced and each is so interesting that they deserve a book of their own. You do not get to take a breath, everything happens so fast that it leaves you asking how? what? why?
but all in all, I truely enjoyed this book so much and looking forward to reading the next one.
A huge thank you for the author for providing the Ebook ARC for this book. It was such a wild ride
PS: there were some errors and editing issues but they are minor and did not affect this review
May 26, 2024
This was so much fun. Book 2 pleaseeeee 🤲
May 20, 2024
PREREAD~
may 11th: stranger things x ghost busters? SIGN. ME. UP.
may 16th: GUESS WHO GOT APPROVED FOR AN ARC??!?! I'M SCREAMING. 😭😭😭😭
POSTREAD~
ೃ⁀➷ I am absolutely BLOWN to bits. Like I had to pace my room, literally screeching in excitement (and pain because book two releases next summer)
This book slapped so hard.
Trope things???~
👻Dual POV (Cass and her twin brother Cal) but 3rd person
👻Slowburn/minimal romance
👻Dark Academia
👻Prestigious private school
👻Stranger things x Ghost busters
👻Amazing ghost characters galore
👻Murder mystery
It follows a girl, Cassandra, AKA Cass, who survives a near-death experience. Now after this NDE, she starts seeing...ghosts. This is a unique ability which is quickly picked up by this special school. A school for people just like her: The Else & Bellows Institute. And there she learns that she is indeed a Voyant and there are so many more people like her. A while after her arrival, a body from a murder from decades ago is discovered and something compels Cass to figure it out.
Waysider sent me through a rollercoaster of emotions, awe and tense moments. The curiosity to learn more and the need to read more never left me at all. This book... I just wanna cry, I loved it sm!!!!!
The main character, Cass, is a girl who has constantly felt inadequate and is deemed the trouble child in her house. Throughout the book we see her tackle the lasting effects of her NDE and her mental health. She is so real. At times unlikeable, but aren't we all? I loved seeing her grow and finding her home in this school. She was so cool and badass and honestly fearless. Like the amount of times I was like "SLAY GIRL" was too much. Cal was equally as interesting and... intriguing. He was the golden child, played sport in highschool and adored by everyone. His commitment to Cass and his family is so heartwarming, the author has made such a bond between them. I didn't expect his POV but you know what, I loved it and looked forward to it so much. (even though it would come after the most tense moments in Cass' POV oml).
This quote truly captured them perfectly:
There was an amazing harmony of characters (and love interests ooo, (MICHAEL BABY I'M COMING FOR YOU!!)). They were all so well developed and fleshed out. My heart ended up being attached to them so deeply in the end. What amazed me about this book is how perfectly the pieces fit together at the end, whilst leaving me with so many questions. Nothing is as it seems. It started off slow paced, as any murder mystery does, and then it fully gripped me by the neck in the second half and blew me away. The world itself is remarkable, I am obsessed with the way this author captured this world in her words and the writing was amazing too. So amazingly written.
I'm truly in love with this world, and I need to attend Else & Bellows Insititute as of RN.
My only wish is that we got more insight into her classes and the actual school itself maybe? Like just seeing her everyday private school routine etc. That and more interactions? But that is my only issue because I ate this shit upppp.
But overall, I cannot express in words how much I loved this book. I only have to say one thing for you: READ THIS BOOK!!!!!
Lastly, I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review! Truly was a wild experience.
official rating: 4.75 stars
i need book two as of yesterday
may 11th: stranger things x ghost busters? SIGN. ME. UP.
may 16th: GUESS WHO GOT APPROVED FOR AN ARC??!?! I'M SCREAMING. 😭😭😭😭
POSTREAD~
ೃ⁀➷ I am absolutely BLOWN to bits. Like I had to pace my room, literally screeching in excitement (and pain because book two releases next summer)
This book slapped so hard.
Trope things???~
👻Dual POV (Cass and her twin brother Cal) but 3rd person
👻Slowburn/minimal romance
👻Dark Academia
👻Prestigious private school
👻Stranger things x Ghost busters
👻Amazing ghost characters galore
👻Murder mystery
It follows a girl, Cassandra, AKA Cass, who survives a near-death experience. Now after this NDE, she starts seeing...ghosts. This is a unique ability which is quickly picked up by this special school. A school for people just like her: The Else & Bellows Institute. And there she learns that she is indeed a Voyant and there are so many more people like her. A while after her arrival, a body from a murder from decades ago is discovered and something compels Cass to figure it out.
Waysider sent me through a rollercoaster of emotions, awe and tense moments. The curiosity to learn more and the need to read more never left me at all. This book... I just wanna cry, I loved it sm!!!!!
The main character, Cass, is a girl who has constantly felt inadequate and is deemed the trouble child in her house. Throughout the book we see her tackle the lasting effects of her NDE and her mental health. She is so real. At times unlikeable, but aren't we all? I loved seeing her grow and finding her home in this school. She was so cool and badass and honestly fearless. Like the amount of times I was like "SLAY GIRL" was too much. Cal was equally as interesting and... intriguing. He was the golden child, played sport in highschool and adored by everyone. His commitment to Cass and his family is so heartwarming, the author has made such a bond between them. I didn't expect his POV but you know what, I loved it and looked forward to it so much. (even though it would come after the most tense moments in Cass' POV oml).
This quote truly captured them perfectly:
" If she was chaos and night, Cal was calm and sunlight."
There was an amazing harmony of characters (and love interests ooo, (MICHAEL BABY I'M COMING FOR YOU!!)). They were all so well developed and fleshed out. My heart ended up being attached to them so deeply in the end. What amazed me about this book is how perfectly the pieces fit together at the end, whilst leaving me with so many questions. Nothing is as it seems. It started off slow paced, as any murder mystery does, and then it fully gripped me by the neck in the second half and blew me away. The world itself is remarkable, I am obsessed with the way this author captured this world in her words and the writing was amazing too. So amazingly written.
I'm truly in love with this world, and I need to attend Else & Bellows Insititute as of RN.
My only wish is that we got more insight into her classes and the actual school itself maybe? Like just seeing her everyday private school routine etc. That and more interactions? But that is my only issue because I ate this shit upppp.
But overall, I cannot express in words how much I loved this book. I only have to say one thing for you: READ THIS BOOK!!!!!
Lastly, I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review! Truly was a wild experience.
official rating: 4.75 stars
May 27, 2024
Shut up, this was so good. Come ON! Are you a Ninth House girly? A Stranger Things fan? This is officially your book of the summer! K.J. Sutton will send a fun and funky chill down your spine with this gripping paranormal thriller, whether you're at the beach, poolside, or hibernating at home.
Set in 1984, the story begins with 20-year-old Cass Ryan as she recounts the recent events of her life, starting with her death. (Ha!) After being pulled out of the river and revived, Cass gains the unsettling ability to see spirits, or revenants. This makes her a prime candidate for the secretive Else & Bellows Institute, which trains voyants like her. Desperate to learn how to control her abilities and distance herself from revenants, she enrolls for her first semester. And then the real fun starts.
Cass is a strong protagonist who marches to her own drumbeat, but one of my favorite things about her is how absolutely scared shitless she is of her new reality. This is not a thrilling adventure for Cass so much as it is a waking nightmare, and honestly, it's such a fresh and relatable take. It's absolutely how I would respond under similar circumstances. Plus, we love a good Reluctant Hero. Cass is also joined by a cast of lovable sidekicks and intriguing potential love interests as she navigates the mysteries plaguing both her and the Institute. Events unfold at near-breakneck speed, but it's like tugging on the loose thread of a sweater: the more we pull, the more we unravel. The more Cass learns, the more there is for her to discover. Classic K.J. Sutton (iykyk).
By the way, if you're thinking of making the jump over from the Fortune Sworn series and are feeling a little iffy on reading something that doesn't involve fae or high fantasy... Trust me, you're gonna do fine! There are plenty of fantastical elements layered into this story, along with a fast-paced and dynamic plot that keeps you guessing. It's so much fun, not too spooky, and definitely far enough from reality for escapism readers like myself.
K.J Sutton keeps getting better and better, and this latest story is well worth the read. Time to begin your semester at Else & Bellows!
Thank you to the author and her ARC team for this advance copy! All opinions are my own.
Set in 1984, the story begins with 20-year-old Cass Ryan as she recounts the recent events of her life, starting with her death. (Ha!) After being pulled out of the river and revived, Cass gains the unsettling ability to see spirits, or revenants. This makes her a prime candidate for the secretive Else & Bellows Institute, which trains voyants like her. Desperate to learn how to control her abilities and distance herself from revenants, she enrolls for her first semester. And then the real fun starts.
Cass is a strong protagonist who marches to her own drumbeat, but one of my favorite things about her is how absolutely scared shitless she is of her new reality. This is not a thrilling adventure for Cass so much as it is a waking nightmare, and honestly, it's such a fresh and relatable take. It's absolutely how I would respond under similar circumstances. Plus, we love a good Reluctant Hero. Cass is also joined by a cast of lovable sidekicks and intriguing potential love interests as she navigates the mysteries plaguing both her and the Institute. Events unfold at near-breakneck speed, but it's like tugging on the loose thread of a sweater: the more we pull, the more we unravel. The more Cass learns, the more there is for her to discover. Classic K.J. Sutton (iykyk).
By the way, if you're thinking of making the jump over from the Fortune Sworn series and are feeling a little iffy on reading something that doesn't involve fae or high fantasy... Trust me, you're gonna do fine! There are plenty of fantastical elements layered into this story, along with a fast-paced and dynamic plot that keeps you guessing. It's so much fun, not too spooky, and definitely far enough from reality for escapism readers like myself.
K.J Sutton keeps getting better and better, and this latest story is well worth the read. Time to begin your semester at Else & Bellows!
Thank you to the author and her ARC team for this advance copy! All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2024
First and foremost, thank you to K.J. and her team for selecting me to receive the ARC for this book.
Do you like ghosts *cough* excuse me, REVENANTS? How about Silence of the Lambs or Stranger Things? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, this book would be right up your alley. I have read almost all of K.J.'s books and this has to be my favorite so far, her writing is beautiful and her ability to write a world that you want to jump into and characters you want to know (and hug... Michael) is just fully astounding. I could not put this down. I instantly fell in love with our main and supporting characters. Why must K.J. write such amazing potential love interests? I cannot choose who I love most.. I mean I knoowww who I love but they are all perfect and easy to swoon for. The layer of mysteries in this book does not leave you confused or lacking.. all I wanted is more, more, more. I love how there are the big questions and then all the questions along the way that make this book that more intense and suspenseful.
This is a MUST READ. **my first initial thoughts when I read the last sentence of this book were: "I am speechless.. I think I am deceased (in the voyant way of course ;) )".. but at the same time, I am so emotionally DEVASTATED at the book hangover I am feeling right now AND more importantly, that I now have a wait for book two.. I would like to formally request Goodreads to give this book 10 gold stars 🔥this has to be my favorite read of 2024!!!
Do you like ghosts *cough* excuse me, REVENANTS? How about Silence of the Lambs or Stranger Things? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, this book would be right up your alley. I have read almost all of K.J.'s books and this has to be my favorite so far, her writing is beautiful and her ability to write a world that you want to jump into and characters you want to know (and hug... Michael) is just fully astounding. I could not put this down. I instantly fell in love with our main and supporting characters. Why must K.J. write such amazing potential love interests? I cannot choose who I love most.. I mean I knoowww who I love but they are all perfect and easy to swoon for. The layer of mysteries in this book does not leave you confused or lacking.. all I wanted is more, more, more. I love how there are the big questions and then all the questions along the way that make this book that more intense and suspenseful.
This is a MUST READ. **my first initial thoughts when I read the last sentence of this book were: "I am speechless.. I think I am deceased (in the voyant way of course ;) )".. but at the same time, I am so emotionally DEVASTATED at the book hangover I am feeling right now AND more importantly, that I now have a wait for book two.. I would like to formally request Goodreads to give this book 10 gold stars 🔥this has to be my favorite read of 2024!!!
June 15, 2024
When I saw the blurb first posted on Ms. Sutton's Instagram I was intrigued and wanted to read it. I liked another work by her, Fortuna Sworn, a lot and was interested in seeing her take on a new genre.
As a disclaimer, I did get an ARC copy, but this did not affect my thoughts or the contents of my review.
The world building in the story was really engaging, and I think the 1980s setting worked well for the story because it hits that sweet spot of being modern enough to be relatable, but old enough that the horror/thriller elements feels easier to execute because the lack of technology gives more freedom for a character to be lacking information or the ability to record proof or get help.
Voyants and the world of revenants was fun, I don't read too many books on the subject, so I felt engrossed in finding out about this aspect of the world and the characters. I was also invested in finding out about Cass and Cal and Michael and Sinister.
The plot, however, did leave me wanting. So many of the elements were just... so laid out without much build up or conflict to give it any punch of tension or suspense.
The blurb made me feel like the dead girl's murder, for example, would be a stronger mystery element, but it was wrapped up without much fanfare. It had a very simple and to the point kind of resolution. It's almost like Cass just asked "who killed you?" then had a brief showdown with the killer later on. I was expecting Cass to get really invested and have to work hard to find clues and overcome resistance from the school and students because the murder relates to some deep, dark secret or truth about the school or herself or something, but, I was severely overestimating the importance of the event.
Sometimes things also... felt like they were inserted into the story in a way that makes it feel out of left field.
I also found myself very confused by Michael and Cass's relationship. Like, they have a few brief conversations, he shows up to encourage her to survive a revenant attack, and then the reader is blindsided with a scene her being on his lap, feeling an erection, and kissing him.
I was not anticipating that and flipped through the pages to make sure I hadn't somehow missed something that would explain this turn of events better. I don't think there was adequate build up for that beyond Cass thinking she was developing a crush and earlier expressing a general sense of wanting to get laid. Same with Teddy; the fact that they have a like, flirting thing and then kiss once felt out of nowhere and like it didn't matter to the plot.
And the serial killer, Patrick Doyle... I feel like this will be further expanded on, but as is, this didn't feel naturally incorporated. I don't think the framing device landed; the author clearly was doing the split timeline thing to be like "we're learning her past story as she recounts it to this guy in the present" so that there's no repetition/summarizing like there would have been if we were to have gone linear, but it also made me think we'd get more of an explanation for Patrick Doyle's relevancy in the story, thus justifying him being introduced so early and throughout the story, but, so far there's still not a solid explanation and the payoff could have been achieved through better means. I think it would have made more sense to let him be a total mystery until the phone call, that way the unknown nature would work to the advantage of the cliffhanger and bringing us into book #2.
Honestly, the character Cass felt like she has the best chemistry with is Sinister and I feel like that relationship has the best foundation so far for being emotionally charged and rewarding to see since their conversations are much more in depth and they do more than just... have short snippets of conversation in a single room and then suddenly are experiencing lust. I'm hoping further books develop that connection.
I am interested in finding out more about Cass's abilities and why she got shoved into the river--how someone knew she'd be on that bridge and why they wanted her dead or to die and come back. With what we see of Cal and the medium, Laura, it's clear there's something more to the twins than what even they're aware of.
Book #1 overall kept my attention, but, it's sitting at a 3 star read for me as it is. It's totally possible that this one is taking the L so it can be a foundational kind of book for what's to come and the subsequent books start knocking it out of the park, but on its own, Wayside didn't quite stick the landing for me.
------------
Prereview from April 2024:
I am super hype. Just saw the cover on Instagram and read the blurb on Amazon. Amazing. I'm a big fan of Fortuna Sworn and excited to see what Ms. Sutton has in store.
As a disclaimer, I did get an ARC copy, but this did not affect my thoughts or the contents of my review.
The world building in the story was really engaging, and I think the 1980s setting worked well for the story because it hits that sweet spot of being modern enough to be relatable, but old enough that the horror/thriller elements feels easier to execute because the lack of technology gives more freedom for a character to be lacking information or the ability to record proof or get help.
Voyants and the world of revenants was fun, I don't read too many books on the subject, so I felt engrossed in finding out about this aspect of the world and the characters. I was also invested in finding out about Cass and Cal and Michael and Sinister.
The plot, however, did leave me wanting. So many of the elements were just... so laid out without much build up or conflict to give it any punch of tension or suspense.
The blurb made me feel like the dead girl's murder, for example, would be a stronger mystery element, but it was wrapped up without much fanfare. It had a very simple and to the point kind of resolution. It's almost like Cass just asked "who killed you?" then had a brief showdown with the killer later on. I was expecting Cass to get really invested and have to work hard to find clues and overcome resistance from the school and students because the murder relates to some deep, dark secret or truth about the school or herself or something, but, I was severely overestimating the importance of the event.
Sometimes things also... felt like they were inserted into the story in a way that makes it feel out of left field.
I also found myself very confused by Michael and Cass's relationship. Like, they have a few brief conversations, he shows up to encourage her to survive a revenant attack, and then the reader is blindsided with a scene her being on his lap, feeling an erection, and kissing him.
I was not anticipating that and flipped through the pages to make sure I hadn't somehow missed something that would explain this turn of events better. I don't think there was adequate build up for that beyond Cass thinking she was developing a crush and earlier expressing a general sense of wanting to get laid. Same with Teddy; the fact that they have a like, flirting thing and then kiss once felt out of nowhere and like it didn't matter to the plot.
And the serial killer, Patrick Doyle... I feel like this will be further expanded on, but as is, this didn't feel naturally incorporated. I don't think the framing device landed; the author clearly was doing the split timeline thing to be like "we're learning her past story as she recounts it to this guy in the present" so that there's no repetition/summarizing like there would have been if we were to have gone linear, but it also made me think we'd get more of an explanation for Patrick Doyle's relevancy in the story, thus justifying him being introduced so early and throughout the story, but, so far there's still not a solid explanation and the payoff could have been achieved through better means. I think it would have made more sense to let him be a total mystery until the phone call, that way the unknown nature would work to the advantage of the cliffhanger and bringing us into book #2.
Honestly, the character Cass felt like she has the best chemistry with is Sinister and I feel like that relationship has the best foundation so far for being emotionally charged and rewarding to see since their conversations are much more in depth and they do more than just... have short snippets of conversation in a single room and then suddenly are experiencing lust. I'm hoping further books develop that connection.
I am interested in finding out more about Cass's abilities and why she got shoved into the river--how someone knew she'd be on that bridge and why they wanted her dead or to die and come back. With what we see of Cal and the medium, Laura, it's clear there's something more to the twins than what even they're aware of.
Book #1 overall kept my attention, but, it's sitting at a 3 star read for me as it is. It's totally possible that this one is taking the L so it can be a foundational kind of book for what's to come and the subsequent books start knocking it out of the park, but on its own, Wayside didn't quite stick the landing for me.
------------
Prereview from April 2024:
I am super hype. Just saw the cover on Instagram and read the blurb on Amazon. Amazing. I'm a big fan of Fortuna Sworn and excited to see what Ms. Sutton has in store.
Shelved as 'on-hold'
June 6, 2024i’m so excited to finally start reading this!!
thank you to the author for reaching out and sending me an arc <3
thank you to the author for reaching out and sending me an arc <3
May 24, 2024
Waysider / My unbiased review is in exchange for an ARC
This spooky, bone chilling and exciting book follows Cass and her brother Cal on their life changing journeys as a result of a monumental event.
Cass is a rule breaker whilst Cal is a rule follower - polar opposite twins.
I am a big fan of the story starting in "present" (as present as you can be for the 80s) and then going back a couple months, leading back to current day (again, the 80s). It is as if we are hearing the story at the same time as other characters (no spoilers here!)
As far as writing goes - Sutton holds strong with her passion for description. You can easily imagine the room that our heros are fighting/laughing/stressing in. Characters are flushed out well with room to grow as the series progresses.
I often found myself forcing to put the book down, to continue with my boring day to day life. That in itself shows me how good of a book this is.
The slow burn romance is of course an enjoyable feature, but I found myself not lacking for interest as we follow Cass through her upsidedown life at the new school. Enduring tests, personal growth and the odd spooky or two.
I did find the language at times difficult to differentiate (room mate for house mate, but I appreciate this may be an American thing) and the fast-paced-ness of the book. As soon as something big happened, the next big thing was starting.
I hope in the future books, Sutton gives us a chance to enjoy the journey a bit more and develop some empathy for our team.
All in All, I enjoyed this book very much and can not wait for the next instalment Summer 2025
This spooky, bone chilling and exciting book follows Cass and her brother Cal on their life changing journeys as a result of a monumental event.
Cass is a rule breaker whilst Cal is a rule follower - polar opposite twins.
I am a big fan of the story starting in "present" (as present as you can be for the 80s) and then going back a couple months, leading back to current day (again, the 80s). It is as if we are hearing the story at the same time as other characters (no spoilers here!)
As far as writing goes - Sutton holds strong with her passion for description. You can easily imagine the room that our heros are fighting/laughing/stressing in. Characters are flushed out well with room to grow as the series progresses.
I often found myself forcing to put the book down, to continue with my boring day to day life. That in itself shows me how good of a book this is.
The slow burn romance is of course an enjoyable feature, but I found myself not lacking for interest as we follow Cass through her upsidedown life at the new school. Enduring tests, personal growth and the odd spooky or two.
I did find the language at times difficult to differentiate (room mate for house mate, but I appreciate this may be an American thing) and the fast-paced-ness of the book. As soon as something big happened, the next big thing was starting.
I hope in the future books, Sutton gives us a chance to enjoy the journey a bit more and develop some empathy for our team.
All in All, I enjoyed this book very much and can not wait for the next instalment Summer 2025
May 18, 2024
Thank you to K.J. Sutton’s PAs for the ARC.
Plot 5/5
Characters 4.5/5
Ending 4.75/5
Interest 4.5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-I really enjoyed myself reading this book. The plot was so intriguing and was so invested in it. At first I was a bit confused as to what was going on but once I was really in the story, I was done for. The mix of scary scenes, mystery and paranormal elements just made everything so great. The school element was also really great and I love how the classes were set for the characters and kind of added to the intrigue.
-The characters were amazing to read about. It was kind of confusing as to who was the love interest and I am still kind of confused relating to that topic. Sinister, Teddy and Michael all had something with Cass but for one of them it was more and perhaps I didn’t need to have all of those options. Aside form that, they were all great. I also really lief the side characters for instance the roommates that Cass had at Wayside’s house.
-I really do want to read more in this series. Again, this book isn’t even out yet and I am already craving more out of this series and these characters. It really left me in shock and I am so curious as to what happens next. So much happened and it all ended up making sense and now I need more.
Plot 5/5
Characters 4.5/5
Ending 4.75/5
Interest 4.5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-I really enjoyed myself reading this book. The plot was so intriguing and was so invested in it. At first I was a bit confused as to what was going on but once I was really in the story, I was done for. The mix of scary scenes, mystery and paranormal elements just made everything so great. The school element was also really great and I love how the classes were set for the characters and kind of added to the intrigue.
-The characters were amazing to read about. It was kind of confusing as to who was the love interest and I am still kind of confused relating to that topic. Sinister, Teddy and Michael all had something with Cass but for one of them it was more and perhaps I didn’t need to have all of those options. Aside form that, they were all great. I also really lief the side characters for instance the roommates that Cass had at Wayside’s house.
-I really do want to read more in this series. Again, this book isn’t even out yet and I am already craving more out of this series and these characters. It really left me in shock and I am so curious as to what happens next. So much happened and it all ended up making sense and now I need more.
May 21, 2024
KJ SUTTON how dare you give me so many charming love interests in book one (but also I love it please don’t stop writing swoon worthy men). I love them all and much like Fortuna Sworn I refuse to pick 😊 This book was AMAZING. It’s so unique and I really have not read anything like it! The beginning timeline had me a bit confused but as I kept reading, I understood why the author wrote the timeline as such and it all started to click! Prior to reading, I really thought I’d relate to the dreamwalkers but I changed my mind. I’m definitely not a dreamwalker and I’m definitely a shadowripper. I relate to our girl Cass so much. I, too, consider myself the black sheep of the family and feel like a sad misfit without purpose at times. To see her growth throughout the book was so comforting.
My favorite quotes were:
“For a breathless instant, time didn’t just slow—it stopped completely. He knelt on the other side of the room, right where her paracaus blade had ended up. Then he pushed it at her and whispered, “Fight, Cassandra. Fight.””
“ “Look,” she said slowly, “I know how much it can suck, feeling different from everyone in your family. Feeling like you’re failing them, or that you’ll never be able to become the version of yourself they’re hoping for. But if you think about the people in the world who everyone remembers, the people who actually made something of themselves? They aren’t usually known for sticking to the status quo or following in someone else’s footsteps. Maybe being the black sheep just means we’re supposed to make our own legacies.” “ - These words feel so empowering to me and I absolutely cannot wait for the continuations of this series. There are so many more mysteries to uncover. What will happen to Cal now?! Who is Michael?! How does Patrick Doyle know so much?! Was he the one who sent Ricky Ramirez?! I’m dying 👻 to find out!!!
Thank you so much for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!! All the special edition book businesses better jump on this series! I’ll absolutely be owning any potential special editions plus the beautiful original cover
My favorite quotes were:
“For a breathless instant, time didn’t just slow—it stopped completely. He knelt on the other side of the room, right where her paracaus blade had ended up. Then he pushed it at her and whispered, “Fight, Cassandra. Fight.””
“ “Look,” she said slowly, “I know how much it can suck, feeling different from everyone in your family. Feeling like you’re failing them, or that you’ll never be able to become the version of yourself they’re hoping for. But if you think about the people in the world who everyone remembers, the people who actually made something of themselves? They aren’t usually known for sticking to the status quo or following in someone else’s footsteps. Maybe being the black sheep just means we’re supposed to make our own legacies.” “ - These words feel so empowering to me and I absolutely cannot wait for the continuations of this series. There are so many more mysteries to uncover. What will happen to Cal now?! Who is Michael?! How does Patrick Doyle know so much?! Was he the one who sent Ricky Ramirez?! I’m dying 👻 to find out!!!
Thank you so much for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!! All the special edition book businesses better jump on this series! I’ll absolutely be owning any potential special editions plus the beautiful original cover
June 20, 2024
Now that enough time has passed, I am allowed to post my review when I was graciously able to ARC read Waysider.
I am going to keep this rather to the point and not drag out too many details. The PA's were incredibly kind and understanding and I think that really stuck out to me, especially after not having the best experience with this book and reaching out to them.
This was my first book by K.J. Sutton, after seeing the really cool promo's for this I decided to take a chance and applied. However, what made this book not come together for me was mainly that I felt there were parts that I felt irrelevant that had too much "screentime" within the plot. And parts that needed more spotlight that were underdeveloped/passed over too quickly.
Such as the school structure, I felt that it needed more explanation and development. There were some contradictions that I wanted answers on. The FMC had some romantic encounters that I wasn't quite interested in. There were some parts in the plot that had a lot of lead up, but didn't really add anything in my opinion. After completing the book, I just had a tad too many complaints to be amongst those that truly enjoyed it. I wish the Author all the luck with future installments, the writing is just not made for me.
I am going to keep this rather to the point and not drag out too many details. The PA's were incredibly kind and understanding and I think that really stuck out to me, especially after not having the best experience with this book and reaching out to them.
This was my first book by K.J. Sutton, after seeing the really cool promo's for this I decided to take a chance and applied. However, what made this book not come together for me was mainly that I felt there were parts that I felt irrelevant that had too much "screentime" within the plot. And parts that needed more spotlight that were underdeveloped/passed over too quickly.
Such as the school structure, I felt that it needed more explanation and development. There were some contradictions that I wanted answers on. The FMC had some romantic encounters that I wasn't quite interested in. There were some parts in the plot that had a lot of lead up, but didn't really add anything in my opinion. After completing the book, I just had a tad too many complaints to be amongst those that truly enjoyed it. I wish the Author all the luck with future installments, the writing is just not made for me.
June 3, 2024
This was amazing!
There were so many plot twists that I wasn’t expecting I’m not a synopsis reader so when they revealed that Cal died in the accident trying to save Cass I gasped. Cass was such a great character to watch grow and grieve and see how she dealt with that grief in such a real raw way. I loved the back and forth between Cass’ story and Patrick learning about everything from his cell. Him being a demon makes so much sense but honestly I would have never guessed it because we got so little interaction from him I think it was a great way to end the book and keep readers wanting more. This has to be my favorite book KJ Sutton has written yet!
There were so many plot twists that I wasn’t expecting I’m not a synopsis reader so when they revealed that Cal died in the accident trying to save Cass I gasped. Cass was such a great character to watch grow and grieve and see how she dealt with that grief in such a real raw way. I loved the back and forth between Cass’ story and Patrick learning about everything from his cell. Him being a demon makes so much sense but honestly I would have never guessed it because we got so little interaction from him I think it was a great way to end the book and keep readers wanting more. This has to be my favorite book KJ Sutton has written yet!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2024
First off, let me just say I ABSOLUTELY ADORED THIS BOOK. I have been a fan of KJ and her writing for a bit now, so I am so honored to have gotten the e-arc for this. I was ecstatic!
This book is the best mashup of stranger things x hogwarts x ghostbusters. If you love any of those or all, this book is certainly for you. It focuses primarily on twins, Cass and Cal, with their journey. Their stories begin with tragedy, and you end up getting a lovely murder mystery mashup! KJ does a fantastic job of developing the characters while adding such great personality traits. The book takes place in a Parapsychology University, where they train students who have had Near Death Experiences how to hone their abilities, to become ghost hunters essentially.
Don’t fret, there are some love interests!! There’s Teddy, the super sweet and reliable guy, then Sinister (I love this name), surprisingly good, powerful, quiet, and then we’ve got our resident revenant Michael, who is dead but attached to Cass, protective, mysterious, and endearing. They’re all good looking, of course!!
I found myself so entranced with this book. I fell in love with the story, and the ending gave me chills. I became addicted to reading it and now I am hooked. I can’t wait for book 2 aka my next fix!!!
This book is the best mashup of stranger things x hogwarts x ghostbusters. If you love any of those or all, this book is certainly for you. It focuses primarily on twins, Cass and Cal, with their journey. Their stories begin with tragedy, and you end up getting a lovely murder mystery mashup! KJ does a fantastic job of developing the characters while adding such great personality traits. The book takes place in a Parapsychology University, where they train students who have had Near Death Experiences how to hone their abilities, to become ghost hunters essentially.
Don’t fret, there are some love interests!! There’s Teddy, the super sweet and reliable guy, then Sinister (I love this name), surprisingly good, powerful, quiet, and then we’ve got our resident revenant Michael, who is dead but attached to Cass, protective, mysterious, and endearing. They’re all good looking, of course!!
I found myself so entranced with this book. I fell in love with the story, and the ending gave me chills. I became addicted to reading it and now I am hooked. I can’t wait for book 2 aka my next fix!!!
June 1, 2024
I have absolutely loved everything K.J. Sutton has written and Waysider is no exception! Definitely recommend and can’t wait for the next book!
May 20, 2024
GHOSTS ?? Yes!!! STRANGER THINGS??? Also yes!! This started out with a bang ! I love this book! Is there going to be another? K.j.? Pretty please 🙏 I LOVED Cal was being protective of his sister from the other side I don’t want to give anything away but ADD TO YOUR TBR IMMEDIATELY
May 22, 2024
Thank you to K.J. Sutton for sending me an e-arc of this book 💖
Waysider was the perfect mix between Stranger Things x Hogwarts x Ghost Busters. I loved the setting of the parapsychology university and all the academic aspects that went along with it.
I would say this is a thriller with a main mystery and a tiny romance subplot. I am still unsure who the main love interest is meant to be. Whether that is Teddy, the flirty one, Sinister, the mysterious one, or Michael, the dead one 🙈 I’m loving all three so maybe a why choose? 🤷🏼♀️
I’m very intrigued by this world and I’m keen to read more!
Waysider was the perfect mix between Stranger Things x Hogwarts x Ghost Busters. I loved the setting of the parapsychology university and all the academic aspects that went along with it.
I would say this is a thriller with a main mystery and a tiny romance subplot. I am still unsure who the main love interest is meant to be. Whether that is Teddy, the flirty one, Sinister, the mysterious one, or Michael, the dead one 🙈 I’m loving all three so maybe a why choose? 🤷🏼♀️
I’m very intrigued by this world and I’m keen to read more!
May 28, 2024
Oh my gosh! This book was seriously one of my favorite reads of the year! I finished it in one sitting and if you loved Harry Potter and Silence of the Lambs this book would be perfect for you. It has paranormal, spooky vibes. And a college for Ghost hunters and supernatural abilities! Sign me all the way up! I got an ARC for this book and I’m soo thankful I did! And the ending… it leads off with you wanting more!! I’m so ready for book 2 like I need it now!
June 6, 2024
Cassandra Ryan has always been a misfit in her family. Luckily she has her twin brother by her side. he’s everything she’s not, and always encouraging her to stays on the right path. They’re inseparable until one day they are in a terrible accident. While attempting to save a mysterious boy on a bridge Cass falls to her near death followed closely by her brother Cal. They survive they ordeal, but things are not quite the same as before.
Although Cal seems to be adjusting to their new normal far quicker than his twin, Cass is struggling with the aftermath of the accident. She’s caught between the land of the living and the dead, and finding that she’s surrounded by spirits and they aren’t all Casper the friendly ghost. When things get to their worst, a stranger appears offering the safe haven of the prestigious Else & Bellows. It’s a place where Cass will finally fit in.
And that’s where the fun really starts. Much like a certain problematic wizarding world that we shall not name, Else & Bellows is divided into houses where the students are carefully sorted. Alongside her fellow Wayside misfits Cass is dropped into a whole new world of voyants and revenants, while trying to figure out where she belongs. Unlike her troublesome past, she’s turning a new leaf and actually attending classes. She’s enjoying the new information, and trying to make sense of the ghoulish specters she’s seeing.
She’s the only living person who seems to care about an unsolved murder at the school. She quickly realizes the real challenge won't be passing her first year as a voyant.
It will be surviving it.
This might be one of those times when I genuinely can’t edit my review down to a few paragraphs. But all you really need to know is, it’s great. Read it.
WAYSIDER WAS SO VERY GOOD!!!! I was HOOKED. KJ does an incredible job reeling the reader in with a psycho in a facility spurring the story along. The way he’s described made my imagination go wild. The whole book plays out like a Netflix original. I could visualize everything so clearly. Right from the beginning, I needed to know more. In chapter one a patient in a maximum security hospital is asking Cass for her own story in exchange for information, and we’re taken back to her first days at her mysterious new school.
Instead of being told through lengthy dialogue, we’re completely taken back in time to April of the same year (which is about 219 days prior). From there the story unfolds in the most exciting way, and suddenly we’re immersed into a spooky world of ghosts with an underlying mystery.
Cass is the new kid and it made it so fun to learn along with her. Especially when her voyant abilities start to surface. She was such a fun character in general. I loved that she was flawed, and the way it affected her relationship with her brother. She’s angry at the world, and wants everyone to stay out of her business. But… she’s also very curious, and can’t sit idly. Which of course leads to the most exciting action. I’m a wimp when it comes to being spooked, so I was apprehensive at first but loved the way everything played out. It was spooky in the best way! It had moments that were action packed, but it balanced out so well with the characters sarcastic wit, and humor. If you love all things paranormal, this is an excellent book to add to your TBR.
I loved Cass’ ragtag group of new classmates. She’s stuck in the house of students trying to find their place at school, and I was thoroughly enjoying the way that the outcasts all stuck together. I cannot wait to see how her friendships develop as her abilities get stronger.
But of course no KJ Sutton book is complete without a little bit of romance. Cass had chemistry for days between all the characters. By the end I couldn’t even decide who I wanted her to end up with. Cass is a young woman trying to survive a new environment, so naturally she develops feelings for a few of her new classmates (Which, same girl. I felt that, HARD). But it was the perfect balance. I truly enjoyed that the mystery was the center of the storyline, and the romance didn’t take away from the plot.
And boy oh boy was the plot so interesting! I desperately need to know more. Especially after how it ended. I can’t wait to see what happens next, and how Cass will be affected by the news. I highly recommend jumping into this series! You won’t want to miss it.
HUUUUUGE THANK YOU TO KJ SUTTON FOR THE EARC!
Although Cal seems to be adjusting to their new normal far quicker than his twin, Cass is struggling with the aftermath of the accident. She’s caught between the land of the living and the dead, and finding that she’s surrounded by spirits and they aren’t all Casper the friendly ghost. When things get to their worst, a stranger appears offering the safe haven of the prestigious Else & Bellows. It’s a place where Cass will finally fit in.
And that’s where the fun really starts. Much like a certain problematic wizarding world that we shall not name, Else & Bellows is divided into houses where the students are carefully sorted. Alongside her fellow Wayside misfits Cass is dropped into a whole new world of voyants and revenants, while trying to figure out where she belongs. Unlike her troublesome past, she’s turning a new leaf and actually attending classes. She’s enjoying the new information, and trying to make sense of the ghoulish specters she’s seeing.
She’s the only living person who seems to care about an unsolved murder at the school. She quickly realizes the real challenge won't be passing her first year as a voyant.
It will be surviving it.
This might be one of those times when I genuinely can’t edit my review down to a few paragraphs. But all you really need to know is, it’s great. Read it.
WAYSIDER WAS SO VERY GOOD!!!! I was HOOKED. KJ does an incredible job reeling the reader in with a psycho in a facility spurring the story along. The way he’s described made my imagination go wild. The whole book plays out like a Netflix original. I could visualize everything so clearly. Right from the beginning, I needed to know more. In chapter one a patient in a maximum security hospital is asking Cass for her own story in exchange for information, and we’re taken back to her first days at her mysterious new school.
Instead of being told through lengthy dialogue, we’re completely taken back in time to April of the same year (which is about 219 days prior). From there the story unfolds in the most exciting way, and suddenly we’re immersed into a spooky world of ghosts with an underlying mystery.
Cass is the new kid and it made it so fun to learn along with her. Especially when her voyant abilities start to surface. She was such a fun character in general. I loved that she was flawed, and the way it affected her relationship with her brother. She’s angry at the world, and wants everyone to stay out of her business. But… she’s also very curious, and can’t sit idly. Which of course leads to the most exciting action. I’m a wimp when it comes to being spooked, so I was apprehensive at first but loved the way everything played out. It was spooky in the best way! It had moments that were action packed, but it balanced out so well with the characters sarcastic wit, and humor. If you love all things paranormal, this is an excellent book to add to your TBR.
I loved Cass’ ragtag group of new classmates. She’s stuck in the house of students trying to find their place at school, and I was thoroughly enjoying the way that the outcasts all stuck together. I cannot wait to see how her friendships develop as her abilities get stronger.
But of course no KJ Sutton book is complete without a little bit of romance. Cass had chemistry for days between all the characters. By the end I couldn’t even decide who I wanted her to end up with. Cass is a young woman trying to survive a new environment, so naturally she develops feelings for a few of her new classmates (Which, same girl. I felt that, HARD). But it was the perfect balance. I truly enjoyed that the mystery was the center of the storyline, and the romance didn’t take away from the plot.
And boy oh boy was the plot so interesting! I desperately need to know more. Especially after how it ended. I can’t wait to see what happens next, and how Cass will be affected by the news. I highly recommend jumping into this series! You won’t want to miss it.
HUUUUUGE THANK YOU TO KJ SUTTON FOR THE EARC!
May 28, 2024
Ok friends, have you ever thought, gosh, I'd love to read a mashup of Stranger Things and Silence of the Lamps, why isn't that a thing? Well, IT IS NOW! Waysider is a kind of dark academic/paranormal thriller, and it is INCREDIBLE. Darkly atmospheric, with a fun 80s setting and a fast-paced plot, I had an incredibly hard time putting it down. KJ Sutton really knows how to write a riveting read - definitely check this one out!
Cass's life is in shambles after she nearly drowns - and her twin brother Cal is killed trying to save her. Coming back from near death, she's surprised to learn that she can see dead people, including Cal. In an effort to reclaim her life, she enrolls in the Else & Bellows Institute, an academy for voyants like her. When she arrives, she's discomfited by her strange new classes and secretive classmates. She also inadvertently gets involved in the dealings of some of the ghosts she sees, though she's reluctant. The more time she spends at the school, the more she gets entangled in it's mysteries. Cass might question whether or not she belongs at Else & Bellows - but with all the strange happenings that occur in her presence, something is going on that no one can predict.
First of all, I love Cass. She's had a LOT of trauma, and she's always felt like something was missing from her life. While she does struggle at Else & Bellows, it's obvious she's trying, even if she does make mistakes and get involved in some crazy stuff. I love KJ Sutton's FMCs, they are always strong but not in entirely obvious ways. Her relationship with her brother is super interesting since he's a ghost that only she and a few others can see. I absolutely loved that we got chapters from his POV too - I think this is going to be an interesting dynamic going forward.
BY FAR the most interesting part of this book was that I COULD NOT TELL WHO THE LOVE INTEREST WAS. There's very little romance in this first book (it's clearly more of a thriller), but y'all, there are THREE guys Cass is CLEARLY into. ONE OF THEM IS A GHOST. I'd honestly be happy with any one of them... or... a why choose situation? I was totally getting Ruthless Boys vibes here, and I loved it.
Waysider ends on a pretty big cliffhanger with a lot of unanswered questions, and to say that I am feral for the next book is an understatement. Though Waysider is very different from her fae fantasy series, I feel like KJ Sutton knocked it out of the park with this one. I definitely anticipate this being a very exciting series!
Cass's life is in shambles after she nearly drowns - and her twin brother Cal is killed trying to save her. Coming back from near death, she's surprised to learn that she can see dead people, including Cal. In an effort to reclaim her life, she enrolls in the Else & Bellows Institute, an academy for voyants like her. When she arrives, she's discomfited by her strange new classes and secretive classmates. She also inadvertently gets involved in the dealings of some of the ghosts she sees, though she's reluctant. The more time she spends at the school, the more she gets entangled in it's mysteries. Cass might question whether or not she belongs at Else & Bellows - but with all the strange happenings that occur in her presence, something is going on that no one can predict.
First of all, I love Cass. She's had a LOT of trauma, and she's always felt like something was missing from her life. While she does struggle at Else & Bellows, it's obvious she's trying, even if she does make mistakes and get involved in some crazy stuff. I love KJ Sutton's FMCs, they are always strong but not in entirely obvious ways. Her relationship with her brother is super interesting since he's a ghost that only she and a few others can see. I absolutely loved that we got chapters from his POV too - I think this is going to be an interesting dynamic going forward.
BY FAR the most interesting part of this book was that I COULD NOT TELL WHO THE LOVE INTEREST WAS. There's very little romance in this first book (it's clearly more of a thriller), but y'all, there are THREE guys Cass is CLEARLY into. ONE OF THEM IS A GHOST. I'd honestly be happy with any one of them... or... a why choose situation? I was totally getting Ruthless Boys vibes here, and I loved it.
Waysider ends on a pretty big cliffhanger with a lot of unanswered questions, and to say that I am feral for the next book is an understatement. Though Waysider is very different from her fae fantasy series, I feel like KJ Sutton knocked it out of the park with this one. I definitely anticipate this being a very exciting series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews