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I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark
"Family secrets, broken friendships, spirit possession, and natural magic. This book will haunt you until the very end and long after you finish." - Rachel Menard, award-winning author of Game of Strength and Storm & Clash of Fate and Fury
"Neilson’s sophomore novel is a haunting love story for the ages, perfectly layered and exquisitely told. " —Buzzfeed
From the author of Deep in Providence comes a paranormal young adult romance that follows a teen convinced that her best friend–turned-enemy is possessed by a ghost, perfect for fans of White Smoke and Twilight.
Seventeen-year-old Aria Cayetano dreams of ghosts. She used to see them too, but thanks to a special tea brewed by her grandfather, Aria’s connection to the spirit world has been severed. Until a decades old rosebush suddenly dies across the street, convincing Aria that something supernatural is happening in her neighborhood.
She aches to investigate it, but the rosebush sits on her ex-best friend Derek Johnson’s front lawn, and she can't question him because he hates her now. Aria doesn't know what drove them apart years ago, but she does know Derek's been acting strange for weeks, sneaking out in the dead of night to who knows where.
Then, days after the rosebush dies, Derek begins speaking to her again. At least Aria thinks it’s him. Until she discovers there’s a ghost inside of Derek that will take his life if it doesn’t find what it’s searching for. As Aria and Derek race to uncover the mystery, another kind of magic takes them by love. But Aria has to decide how far she’s willing to go to save Derek, especially when helping the ghost means tapping into whatever the tea has buried inside of her.
Bone-chilling and spellbinding, I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is an alluring ghost story that’s about exorcising the past to find a future to believe in.
"In Neilson's hands, a ghost story is never just a ghost story—teenage rebellion and friendship troubles are woven together with captivating imagery, compelling characters, and yes, ghosts. This book is a study in the lengths we will go to in order to protect those we love. A study in knowing when to let go and when to hold on—even if it means risking ourselves in the process." - Lillie Lainoff, author of One For All
"Neilson’s sophomore novel is a haunting love story for the ages, perfectly layered and exquisitely told. " —Buzzfeed
From the author of Deep in Providence comes a paranormal young adult romance that follows a teen convinced that her best friend–turned-enemy is possessed by a ghost, perfect for fans of White Smoke and Twilight.
Seventeen-year-old Aria Cayetano dreams of ghosts. She used to see them too, but thanks to a special tea brewed by her grandfather, Aria’s connection to the spirit world has been severed. Until a decades old rosebush suddenly dies across the street, convincing Aria that something supernatural is happening in her neighborhood.
She aches to investigate it, but the rosebush sits on her ex-best friend Derek Johnson’s front lawn, and she can't question him because he hates her now. Aria doesn't know what drove them apart years ago, but she does know Derek's been acting strange for weeks, sneaking out in the dead of night to who knows where.
Then, days after the rosebush dies, Derek begins speaking to her again. At least Aria thinks it’s him. Until she discovers there’s a ghost inside of Derek that will take his life if it doesn’t find what it’s searching for. As Aria and Derek race to uncover the mystery, another kind of magic takes them by love. But Aria has to decide how far she’s willing to go to save Derek, especially when helping the ghost means tapping into whatever the tea has buried inside of her.
Bone-chilling and spellbinding, I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is an alluring ghost story that’s about exorcising the past to find a future to believe in.
"In Neilson's hands, a ghost story is never just a ghost story—teenage rebellion and friendship troubles are woven together with captivating imagery, compelling characters, and yes, ghosts. This book is a study in the lengths we will go to in order to protect those we love. A study in knowing when to let go and when to hold on—even if it means risking ourselves in the process." - Lillie Lainoff, author of One For All
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2023
24 people are currently reading
5045 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
January 17, 2023
I couldn’t put it down this riveting YA paranormal fantasy/ romance novel! It piqued my interest from the beginning. I have a soft spot for ghost stories and spirits’ unfinished businesses.
A young girl who sees the spirits,forced to drink a special tea each night to protect herself from the haunted ghosts realizes something ominous is about to happen that will change her entire life!
Creepy rotting tree growing at neighbor’s house as its falling leaves turn into ashes: 17 years old Aria Cayetano realizes there’s something wrong with Johnson’s house! Not only the creepy growing tree disturbs her nerves but also her ex childhood friend she fell apart: Derek Johnson confuses her mind with his weird attitudes. He lurks around the neighborhood in the middle of the night. She even caught him in her sister’s room. What does he look for?
After radio silencing her for 2 years long, he decides to talk her. He doesn’t act like himself. He takes her midnight trips to the bridge to dance with her, walking through the woods to show blazing wisteria trees, rainbow colored flying butterflies. Then the next day he tells he was not the one he walked her to the woods. He was possessed!
Aria quickly understands three things: 1)her ex friend she has harboring complex feelings is possessed by a ghost named Marcus. If he cannot stop the ghost, he will suck the life out of Derek’s body!
2)When she stopped drinking tea: a special concoction mixed by her grandpa Lolo who has magical gifts with herbs, she starts connecting with the spirits. It means her family has been hiding a big secret from her.
3)She might be more powerful than she’s imagined and by reaching her full potential she can be the only person to help both Derek and Marcus, by guiding the spirit to his resting place!
But firstly she has to find out what kind of powers she may be harboring and learn the big secrets her family is keeping from her. But she must be quick because she tells more for Derek even though she denies to confess herself. She might lose her best friend and her potential lover forever if she doesn’t act quick to reach her powers!
The open ending gave me so much hope! I think a sequel might be coming! Yesss! I’d love to spend more time with blue bird! I also enjoyed Aria and Derek’s enemies to lovers romance subplot!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group/Henry Holt&Co. for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
A young girl who sees the spirits,forced to drink a special tea each night to protect herself from the haunted ghosts realizes something ominous is about to happen that will change her entire life!
Creepy rotting tree growing at neighbor’s house as its falling leaves turn into ashes: 17 years old Aria Cayetano realizes there’s something wrong with Johnson’s house! Not only the creepy growing tree disturbs her nerves but also her ex childhood friend she fell apart: Derek Johnson confuses her mind with his weird attitudes. He lurks around the neighborhood in the middle of the night. She even caught him in her sister’s room. What does he look for?
After radio silencing her for 2 years long, he decides to talk her. He doesn’t act like himself. He takes her midnight trips to the bridge to dance with her, walking through the woods to show blazing wisteria trees, rainbow colored flying butterflies. Then the next day he tells he was not the one he walked her to the woods. He was possessed!
Aria quickly understands three things: 1)her ex friend she has harboring complex feelings is possessed by a ghost named Marcus. If he cannot stop the ghost, he will suck the life out of Derek’s body!
2)When she stopped drinking tea: a special concoction mixed by her grandpa Lolo who has magical gifts with herbs, she starts connecting with the spirits. It means her family has been hiding a big secret from her.
3)She might be more powerful than she’s imagined and by reaching her full potential she can be the only person to help both Derek and Marcus, by guiding the spirit to his resting place!
But firstly she has to find out what kind of powers she may be harboring and learn the big secrets her family is keeping from her. But she must be quick because she tells more for Derek even though she denies to confess herself. She might lose her best friend and her potential lover forever if she doesn’t act quick to reach her powers!
The open ending gave me so much hope! I think a sequel might be coming! Yesss! I’d love to spend more time with blue bird! I also enjoyed Aria and Derek’s enemies to lovers romance subplot!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group/Henry Holt&Co. for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
April 23, 2023
This was a really riveting paranormal romance. I was instantly intrigued by Aria’s story. I liked the unique take on magic and magical abilities. I thought Aria’s family’’s reaction to her abilities was awful, but it was realistic for the family to protect her by covering up her abilities. Aria has always been haunted by spirits and the gray other side, but it has been under control since she grandfather mixed up a special tea that she drinks twice a day to keep the spirits away. But when something is wrong with her neighbor and former best friend Derek she pushes herself to get more and more in touch with gift…even though she wonders if it is truly a gift or a curse.
May 9, 2023
I was a massive fan of Riss M. Neilson’s Deep in Providence, and I couldn’t wait to dive into her sophomore book.
From the moment I started reading Aria’s story, Riss’ writing immediately pulled me in. Her writing is what I like about her books the most. It’s haunting, mystical, creepy but also incredibly moving. I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is a layered story, and I love to pull off layers one by one and let the book surprise me and touch me in ways I didn’t know it would. I also need to highlight how fully fleshed out the characters are, especially Aria, and I loved her growth throughout the story. And even though the book isn’t really focused on romance, I liked that there was a little love story involved, and I’m a sucker for the enemies-to-lovers troop!
And finally, I want to spotlight the cover! It’s so gorgeous!
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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From the moment I started reading Aria’s story, Riss’ writing immediately pulled me in. Her writing is what I like about her books the most. It’s haunting, mystical, creepy but also incredibly moving. I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is a layered story, and I love to pull off layers one by one and let the book surprise me and touch me in ways I didn’t know it would. I also need to highlight how fully fleshed out the characters are, especially Aria, and I loved her growth throughout the story. And even though the book isn’t really focused on romance, I liked that there was a little love story involved, and I’m a sucker for the enemies-to-lovers troop!
And finally, I want to spotlight the cover! It’s so gorgeous!
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Follow me on Instagram
May 25, 2023
Aria has a daily tea ritual at the insistence of her mother and grandfather to keep away the spirits but she doesn't understand her full connection to the dead. One day she notices a rosebush burning across the street at her childhood friend Derek's home. That same night she experiences strange visions and has questions she can't answer. Though she and Derek had a falling out he suddenly starts talking to her again and she decides to stop drinking the tea as she tries to piece together forgotten memories. When she discovers he's possessed, she has to figure out how to send the ghost to it's finally resting place.
One of Riss M Neilson's strong points is definitely imagery and she includes beautiful descriptions that even a less visual reader such as myself can appreciate. It made the world feel more realized and real.
While I liked Aria and Derek's friendship and appreciated their connection at times it felt like the romance aspect was a little forced. And with the ghost in the middle of their relationship and constantly switching in and out during intimate moments it was a little awkward at times. Since this was marketed as a paranormal romance I thought it would be more like the paranormal romance of the early 2010s where the romance starts sooner and is more at the forefront.
It was nice to get a YA where the family is present on page and the main character isn't weathering the storm completely alone. Aria's mother works a lot but she still checks in with her, she still raises concerns when she needs to and even though she doesn't have magic she still tries to protect her. She is also very close with her grandfather and we see them not only working together on herbal work but also cooking together. This is a story where the main character is multiracial but the story doesn't center around how hard it is to be apart of different worlds.
Longer review
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
One of Riss M Neilson's strong points is definitely imagery and she includes beautiful descriptions that even a less visual reader such as myself can appreciate. It made the world feel more realized and real.
While I liked Aria and Derek's friendship and appreciated their connection at times it felt like the romance aspect was a little forced. And with the ghost in the middle of their relationship and constantly switching in and out during intimate moments it was a little awkward at times. Since this was marketed as a paranormal romance I thought it would be more like the paranormal romance of the early 2010s where the romance starts sooner and is more at the forefront.
It was nice to get a YA where the family is present on page and the main character isn't weathering the storm completely alone. Aria's mother works a lot but she still checks in with her, she still raises concerns when she needs to and even though she doesn't have magic she still tries to protect her. She is also very close with her grandfather and we see them not only working together on herbal work but also cooking together. This is a story where the main character is multiracial but the story doesn't center around how hard it is to be apart of different worlds.
Longer review
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
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January 28, 2025For those who came here for the stupid as fuck TikTok drama:
We don't even know if Indy owns the right to the photos. Photographers automatically have copyright for the photos they take, not the model. Models can use the photos (this does not mean they own them), but under certain agreements/contracts with the photographer, the copyright/ownership can be transferred, which Indy has yet to state. (as of writing this, it is 1/16/2025.)
The author had no communication with the artist (as said on their Instagram) and had no clue the photo was used as a reference. This is typical in traditional publishing; most authors don't have a say in their book's covers or even titles. It's fucking stupid, but that's how it is.
It's even more stupid to be bullying and harassing an author because some TikTok girl is being ignorant (or arrogant). If anything, take it up with Henry Holt and Co. or the illustrator.
We don't even know if Indy owns the right to the photos. Photographers automatically have copyright for the photos they take, not the model. Models can use the photos (this does not mean they own them), but under certain agreements/contracts with the photographer, the copyright/ownership can be transferred, which Indy has yet to state. (as of writing this, it is 1/16/2025.)
The author had no communication with the artist (as said on their Instagram) and had no clue the photo was used as a reference. This is typical in traditional publishing; most authors don't have a say in their book's covers or even titles. It's fucking stupid, but that's how it is.
It's even more stupid to be bullying and harassing an author because some TikTok girl is being ignorant (or arrogant). If anything, take it up with Henry Holt and Co. or the illustrator.
June 2, 2024
MASSIVE UPDATE: ARIA IS ACE CONFIRMED!!!!!! IM SCREAMING ITS QUEER SHES QUEER WERE QUEER CRYING SCREAMING THROWING UP RISS TOLD ME I WAS RIGHT AHHHHHHH
I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark by Riss M. Neilson is a YA Paranormal Romance Horror novel that follows a Filipino American Cabo Verdean teenager, Aria Cayetano, as she attempts to solve the mystery of why her childhood best friend turned enemy seems to be possessed by a ghost.
This book is unapologetically Filipino. There is a bird that cusses in Tagalog. There’s so much culture in this. We have a secondary character called Lolo, the Filipino word for grandfather, who is featured very prominently. Aria even says this about her Lolo “I’m annoyed that he thinks he can use food to silence me. More annoyed that he’s not wrong.”
Aria is a fiercely independent young woman who dreams of ghosts. She’s very immersed in the supernatural world and has some sort of suppressed power that is the driving force of the plot in this book. She’s also very inquisitive, sometimes to her detriment, as she notices and investigates oddities around her neighborhood.
Her family is deep into the magical side of things as they supply potions and make magical objects. Aria is such a fabulously imperfect character – she leans into the cold and unempathetic side of things which makes her analyze everything more and try to find solutions to problems instead of offering an ear when someone just wants to cry.
Aria also gives me a-spec vibes. I’m not too sure if that’s a canon but it was mentioned a few times how she finds certain difficulty in falling into relationships unless she already cares for them. And because she finds it very difficult to even care for people in general she thinks she’s going to be alone forever, and so on and so forth. So to me this novel is non-canon queer.
The cover of this book is SO PERFECT for what it is trying to say. I can honestly imagine spin-off novels for ALL the secondary characters that were featured in this book. And the romance – oh my gosh - it was such an enjoyable love story to read about.
Overall, such a fantastic and very bingeable novel! All the plots and the subplots were very well put together. The themes were also so spot on – the grief, and the friendships, the burden of power and responsibility, the frustration of grown-ups hiding things from kids for their own good – just everything about this was so enjoyable.
If you think you might like a hauntingly beautiful book full of fantastic imagery, complex family dynamics, and a gentle unfurling of a magical family secret all the while building such a fantastic world with phenomenal characters, this book might just be for you.
I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark by Riss M. Neilson is a YA Paranormal Romance Horror novel that follows a Filipino American Cabo Verdean teenager, Aria Cayetano, as she attempts to solve the mystery of why her childhood best friend turned enemy seems to be possessed by a ghost.
This book is unapologetically Filipino. There is a bird that cusses in Tagalog. There’s so much culture in this. We have a secondary character called Lolo, the Filipino word for grandfather, who is featured very prominently. Aria even says this about her Lolo “I’m annoyed that he thinks he can use food to silence me. More annoyed that he’s not wrong.”
Aria is a fiercely independent young woman who dreams of ghosts. She’s very immersed in the supernatural world and has some sort of suppressed power that is the driving force of the plot in this book. She’s also very inquisitive, sometimes to her detriment, as she notices and investigates oddities around her neighborhood.
Her family is deep into the magical side of things as they supply potions and make magical objects. Aria is such a fabulously imperfect character – she leans into the cold and unempathetic side of things which makes her analyze everything more and try to find solutions to problems instead of offering an ear when someone just wants to cry.
Aria also gives me a-spec vibes. I’m not too sure if that’s a canon but it was mentioned a few times how she finds certain difficulty in falling into relationships unless she already cares for them. And because she finds it very difficult to even care for people in general she thinks she’s going to be alone forever, and so on and so forth. So to me this novel is non-canon queer.
The cover of this book is SO PERFECT for what it is trying to say. I can honestly imagine spin-off novels for ALL the secondary characters that were featured in this book. And the romance – oh my gosh - it was such an enjoyable love story to read about.
Overall, such a fantastic and very bingeable novel! All the plots and the subplots were very well put together. The themes were also so spot on – the grief, and the friendships, the burden of power and responsibility, the frustration of grown-ups hiding things from kids for their own good – just everything about this was so enjoyable.
If you think you might like a hauntingly beautiful book full of fantastic imagery, complex family dynamics, and a gentle unfurling of a magical family secret all the while building such a fantastic world with phenomenal characters, this book might just be for you.
January 21, 2023
Creepy and hauntingly beautiful. Riss M. Neilson builds a ghost story like we don't often get to see, full of magic, secrets, complex histories, and family.
For me, the true beauty of this book was the slow build of the world. With each new discovery we're given another layer to the complexities of life. What happens when we learn enough about our history we start to yearn for what we've lost? Especially when that yearning takes away from what is actually in front of us?
What happens when our family tries to protect us from ourselves but we grow out of needing protection? What about when we defy out parents to desperately try to build our connection to ourself and our magic? There's no real answer for any of this and we all handle all of these things differently. But Neilson manages to remind us that these questions are just a part of life and a part of who we are.
History is complex and messy and everyone in these stories are real people. We often do things that we think are best even if they may not be. We hide things from each other in order to protect each other. This may be a ghost story with a pinch of magic but Neilson brilliantly crafts a deeply human story in I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark.
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Pre-reading review: I'm such a big fan of Riss for writing very mixed characters in a very magical, solemn, spooky tone. It's delightful, delicious, and wonderful. I'm so excited for this!!
Bookish Brews | Ko-Fi | Twitter | Pinterest | Tumblr | Facebook
For me, the true beauty of this book was the slow build of the world. With each new discovery we're given another layer to the complexities of life. What happens when we learn enough about our history we start to yearn for what we've lost? Especially when that yearning takes away from what is actually in front of us?
What happens when our family tries to protect us from ourselves but we grow out of needing protection? What about when we defy out parents to desperately try to build our connection to ourself and our magic? There's no real answer for any of this and we all handle all of these things differently. But Neilson manages to remind us that these questions are just a part of life and a part of who we are.
History is complex and messy and everyone in these stories are real people. We often do things that we think are best even if they may not be. We hide things from each other in order to protect each other. This may be a ghost story with a pinch of magic but Neilson brilliantly crafts a deeply human story in I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark.
-----
Pre-reading review: I'm such a big fan of Riss for writing very mixed characters in a very magical, solemn, spooky tone. It's delightful, delicious, and wonderful. I'm so excited for this!!
Bookish Brews | Ko-Fi | Twitter | Pinterest | Tumblr | Facebook
January 25, 2023
This is my first book of the year and we are off to a great start! I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is Riss M. Neilson's second book, set in the same universe as her debut, Deep in Providence, another excellent book.
Aria has to drink special tea mixed by her Lolo to prevent her from seeing the spirit world. She's never truly understood her ability and had no reason to, until her ex-best friend Derek gets possessed. The two of them rekindle their friendship (and maybe more?) as they work together to remove the spirit from his body before it kills him.
This had the feel of a mystery, mixed with the contemporary heart of healing relationships, and the weight of family secrets. A must read for 2023. Dark comes out in May of this year.
Aria has to drink special tea mixed by her Lolo to prevent her from seeing the spirit world. She's never truly understood her ability and had no reason to, until her ex-best friend Derek gets possessed. The two of them rekindle their friendship (and maybe more?) as they work together to remove the spirit from his body before it kills him.
This had the feel of a mystery, mixed with the contemporary heart of healing relationships, and the weight of family secrets. A must read for 2023. Dark comes out in May of this year.
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January 25, 2025If I see any of you leaving bad reviews without reading the book because of a stupid tiktok...it's on sight.
September 12, 2023
I’m Not Supposed to Be in the Dark by Riss M Neilson is a book full of magic and emotion. It is a coming-of-age story full of growth and self-discovery.
Aria Cayetano is a teenager, a high school student, and a young woman that sees ghosts born into a magical family. From a young age, and presumably for her protection, her grandfather has been making a special tea blend to dampen her ability to see ghosts. Aria is content with this situation until something happens to the boy that lives across the street.
Derek Johnson was Aria’s best friend from early childhood until something devastating tore them apart. Now, Derek is cold to Aria. Owing partially to guilt, Aria makes it her mission to help Derek with whatever is causing him to act differently. Turns out, he is possessed by a ghost. This makes Aria the perfect person to help Derek. But, in order to help Derek, she must first rediscover herself and her abilities.
Along this journey of self-discovery, Aria must confront her family, the secrets they keep from her, her feelings for Derek, and the true depth of the power she has. Throughout this novel Aria has amazing character development. She goes from being an emotionally void and selfish teenager to an emotionally vulnerable, mentally strong young woman.
Aside from Aria, the supporting characters surrounding her are also interesting. Her mother is hard-working while trying her best to raise her daughters. Her grandfather is hard-as-nails and strict but loving. Her best friend Bri is a firecracker but also down-to-earth. She is there for Bri when she needs her. And, then there’s Derek, poor complicated Derek.
There’s also the imagery and the overall vibes of the book. The descriptions of the rosebush, the ghosts, fauna, the other flora, and magic are extremely lush. While the atmosphere of the book maintains a semi-creepy vibe from start to finish.
There are many other elements enjoyable about this book. The pacing was even throughout the book. There is representation of African and Filipino culture, interracial families, and biracial children. Dealing with grief, whether it is your own or someone else’s, is a main focus and dealt with superbly. Also, there are some great jump scare moments.
However, there are a few things that I found detracted from the story. The climax wrapped up entirely too quickly. While at the same time, the ending felt a couple of chapters too long. Also, I do wish Adelia was either more present in the story, or there was a better explanation for her absence.
Overall though, this was a solid YA novel that I can highly recommend especially if you like to dabble in horror.
4.5/5
Thank you #NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily.
Aria Cayetano is a teenager, a high school student, and a young woman that sees ghosts born into a magical family. From a young age, and presumably for her protection, her grandfather has been making a special tea blend to dampen her ability to see ghosts. Aria is content with this situation until something happens to the boy that lives across the street.
Derek Johnson was Aria’s best friend from early childhood until something devastating tore them apart. Now, Derek is cold to Aria. Owing partially to guilt, Aria makes it her mission to help Derek with whatever is causing him to act differently. Turns out, he is possessed by a ghost. This makes Aria the perfect person to help Derek. But, in order to help Derek, she must first rediscover herself and her abilities.
Along this journey of self-discovery, Aria must confront her family, the secrets they keep from her, her feelings for Derek, and the true depth of the power she has. Throughout this novel Aria has amazing character development. She goes from being an emotionally void and selfish teenager to an emotionally vulnerable, mentally strong young woman.
Aside from Aria, the supporting characters surrounding her are also interesting. Her mother is hard-working while trying her best to raise her daughters. Her grandfather is hard-as-nails and strict but loving. Her best friend Bri is a firecracker but also down-to-earth. She is there for Bri when she needs her. And, then there’s Derek, poor complicated Derek.
There’s also the imagery and the overall vibes of the book. The descriptions of the rosebush, the ghosts, fauna, the other flora, and magic are extremely lush. While the atmosphere of the book maintains a semi-creepy vibe from start to finish.
There are many other elements enjoyable about this book. The pacing was even throughout the book. There is representation of African and Filipino culture, interracial families, and biracial children. Dealing with grief, whether it is your own or someone else’s, is a main focus and dealt with superbly. Also, there are some great jump scare moments.
However, there are a few things that I found detracted from the story. The climax wrapped up entirely too quickly. While at the same time, the ending felt a couple of chapters too long. Also, I do wish Adelia was either more present in the story, or there was a better explanation for her absence.
Overall though, this was a solid YA novel that I can highly recommend especially if you like to dabble in horror.
4.5/5
Thank you #NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily.
February 4, 2024
I struggled a lot with the first person point of view - it made the writing feel very simple.
May 19, 2023
This was okay? I feel like the author is a fun geek and reflected that into the characters. Which isn't usually a problem, but when this starts feeling like Twilight with Jack Frost what-ifs.... I'm onto you and know your tumblr/pinterest vibe, Neilson.
January 8, 2023
(3.75 rounded up)
While not as in love with this as I was with Deep in Providence, I have to say I still really enjoyed this. Riss M. Neilson has such a beautiful way of writing, and her depictions of spirits and what lies beyond the veil are phenomenal.
I loved the connection between Derek and Aria, and Marcus's story really pulled at my heartstrings.
I did feel like the book was little on the long side, but it didn't hinder my enjoyment at all.
Beautiful writing + heartfelt characters + magic = a spectacular time.
《Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for sending me and ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.》
While not as in love with this as I was with Deep in Providence, I have to say I still really enjoyed this. Riss M. Neilson has such a beautiful way of writing, and her depictions of spirits and what lies beyond the veil are phenomenal.
I loved the connection between Derek and Aria, and Marcus's story really pulled at my heartstrings.
I did feel like the book was little on the long side, but it didn't hinder my enjoyment at all.
Beautiful writing + heartfelt characters + magic = a spectacular time.
《Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for sending me and ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.》
February 25, 2023
It was mysterious and chilling, but also heartwarming and lovely. Aria's journey of discovering her power was bittersweet. It was not easy. Everyone wanted to protect her, but by doing so they were putting her in grave danger. By finding out her power, she discovers more about herself and what she could do with the power she is trusted with. The journey also changed all of those around her, and I love how Neilson portrayed the story. Love Derek, he is such a sweetheart. But I also love Marcus.
Great storytelling, chilling but lovely atmosphere, little detective/sleuthing, and angsts... loveeee!
Great storytelling, chilling but lovely atmosphere, little detective/sleuthing, and angsts... loveeee!
April 12, 2023
official blurb:
In Neilson's hands, a ghost story is never just a ghost story—teenage rebellion and friendship troubles are woven together with captivating imagery, compelling characters, and yes, ghosts. This book is a study in the lengths we will go to in order to protect those we love. A study in knowing when to let go and when to hold on—even if it means risking ourselves in the process.
In Neilson's hands, a ghost story is never just a ghost story—teenage rebellion and friendship troubles are woven together with captivating imagery, compelling characters, and yes, ghosts. This book is a study in the lengths we will go to in order to protect those we love. A study in knowing when to let go and when to hold on—even if it means risking ourselves in the process.
March 15, 2023
Magic, secrets, family, and complicated history.
This is my first read by Riss M. Neilson and it will not be the last. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. It’s creepy yet lovely. There was a tad bit of romance that was included about 65% into the book. That is unfortunate, but I appreciated what was given. Who doesn’t like enemies to lovers? I’ll take even a little bit lol.
3.5⭐️
This is my first read by Riss M. Neilson and it will not be the last. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. It’s creepy yet lovely. There was a tad bit of romance that was included about 65% into the book. That is unfortunate, but I appreciated what was given. Who doesn’t like enemies to lovers? I’ll take even a little bit lol.
3.5⭐️
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January 17, 2025We don't support authors who support stolen content. That includes covers. The author dying on the cross for the artist who turned in traced work for a paycheck. Could not be me.
March 15, 2023
I REALLY wanted to like this, but unfortunately it was just not that good. It started off okay but quickly went downhill. It was way too long and nothing really happened. Aria was kind of annoying and way too stubborn. There were only a few creepy moments and I just wanted more. I liked the story and the style but ultimately it was just not for me.
November 6, 2023
I think there is a good story in this book, I’m just not sure I am a big fan of how it is told. Part of my issue is with the voice of the main character, which I found rather annoying. It is told in a first person narrative…so you can’t escape Aria and her repetitive wishy-washiness.
I was intrigued enough by the premise that I picked it up for a Halloween read from my local library…and I stuck with it until the bitter end because I really did think there might be a good story there. I feel like this is a short story that was stretched into a full length novel at 384 pages. The filler was mainly this teenage girl going over the same stuff in her head…her best friend across the street is no longer her friend, her family is medicating her and lying to her, what are her “powers”….blah, blah, blah over and over.
I wish she did a lot less dwelling and repetitive ruminating and a lot more action. Stop letting people get away with not answering questions! Stop being ok with being kept in the dark! Confront, resolve (or not) and move on. Also, Aria being “the strongest person” her mom knows really doesn’t ring true with her working at a hospital and Aria melting after a guy flirts with her and is nice to her in the hopes of having sex with her…and blubbering in her mom’s arms after being chased by a guy (who does no harm to her but who she stabs in the hand with a switchblade knife!). As you can tell I really didn’t care for the heroine of this story…which is too bad because I really enjoy her conceptually. Aria’s mom is Cape Veridian and her father (who has passed away) is Filipino. We get a smidge of both cultures which I appreciated.
There were some other odd things in the story like, Derek has siblings…but I don’t recall them ever being in the story other than getting an early mention and Aria is at their home many times…and lives just across the street. Were they abducted?
I read on because I enjoyed the mystery of not knowing and trying to figure out initially if this was a Jekyll/Hyde situation or a possession. As it turns out Aria’s neighbor and former best friend (the lame reason for being former best friends is revealed late in the book) Derek is being possessed by a ghost named Marcus, who died by drowning 60 years ago and has been looking for Aria that whole time so she can help his spirit find its resting home. That is Aria’s gift that her family has been hiding from her by making her drink a daily tea that masks her gift. (Again, I thought their reasoning was pretty weak for that rationalization.) She has a new gay bestie, who we get to suffer through first dates and arguments with some new love interest named Val…which doesn’t do much for progressing the plot.
Finally, it’s not much of a love story, it really is more of a ghost story full stop. She has always been in like/love with the boy across the street who used to be her best friend and then stopped talking to her after his mom left and Aria didn’t handle it the way he thought she should. The ghost possessing him likes Aria…well, not really… he just needs her help and now Derek is forced to talk to her again so he doesn’t die and then she saves his life and now they are friends again and more. Sorry, I am a romantic and this was neither Austen nor Stephenie Meyer.
Ok, all of that is to say…I would probably skip this YA paranormal about a ghostly possession and a “seeker”. It had some good ideas, but wasn’t necessarily fully fleshed out. In the end we are still left unclear as to how Aria’s gift works and what is left behind from her…in this case her journal, but what next?
I was intrigued enough by the premise that I picked it up for a Halloween read from my local library…and I stuck with it until the bitter end because I really did think there might be a good story there. I feel like this is a short story that was stretched into a full length novel at 384 pages. The filler was mainly this teenage girl going over the same stuff in her head…her best friend across the street is no longer her friend, her family is medicating her and lying to her, what are her “powers”….blah, blah, blah over and over.
I wish she did a lot less dwelling and repetitive ruminating and a lot more action. Stop letting people get away with not answering questions! Stop being ok with being kept in the dark! Confront, resolve (or not) and move on. Also, Aria being “the strongest person” her mom knows really doesn’t ring true with her working at a hospital and Aria melting after a guy flirts with her and is nice to her in the hopes of having sex with her…and blubbering in her mom’s arms after being chased by a guy (who does no harm to her but who she stabs in the hand with a switchblade knife!). As you can tell I really didn’t care for the heroine of this story…which is too bad because I really enjoy her conceptually. Aria’s mom is Cape Veridian and her father (who has passed away) is Filipino. We get a smidge of both cultures which I appreciated.
There were some other odd things in the story like, Derek has siblings…but I don’t recall them ever being in the story other than getting an early mention and Aria is at their home many times…and lives just across the street. Were they abducted?
I read on because I enjoyed the mystery of not knowing and trying to figure out initially if this was a Jekyll/Hyde situation or a possession. As it turns out Aria’s neighbor and former best friend (the lame reason for being former best friends is revealed late in the book) Derek is being possessed by a ghost named Marcus, who died by drowning 60 years ago and has been looking for Aria that whole time so she can help his spirit find its resting home. That is Aria’s gift that her family has been hiding from her by making her drink a daily tea that masks her gift. (Again, I thought their reasoning was pretty weak for that rationalization.) She has a new gay bestie, who we get to suffer through first dates and arguments with some new love interest named Val…which doesn’t do much for progressing the plot.
Finally, it’s not much of a love story, it really is more of a ghost story full stop. She has always been in like/love with the boy across the street who used to be her best friend and then stopped talking to her after his mom left and Aria didn’t handle it the way he thought she should. The ghost possessing him likes Aria…well, not really… he just needs her help and now Derek is forced to talk to her again so he doesn’t die and then she saves his life and now they are friends again and more. Sorry, I am a romantic and this was neither Austen nor Stephenie Meyer.
Ok, all of that is to say…I would probably skip this YA paranormal about a ghostly possession and a “seeker”. It had some good ideas, but wasn’t necessarily fully fleshed out. In the end we are still left unclear as to how Aria’s gift works and what is left behind from her…in this case her journal, but what next?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
absolutely gorgeous!!!! Riss is a star and I can’t wait to read what else she has in store!!! also still can’t believe I got an acknowledgment in such a beautiful book 🥹 thank you Riss
June 10, 2024
I found the concept here really fascinating - seventeen year old girl in Rhode Island whose Filipino side of the family are magic practitioners. She can see ghosts, but she’s told from a young age that the ability scared child-her and she drinks a special tea twice a day to ward them off. But a series of events lead her to stop drinking the tea and discovering that her family has been lying to her for a really long time.
The good: Providence is so much of a character here, it’s great. And the concept is cool.
The bad: Aria is…a lot. She’s deeply naive, and automatically trusts people who treat her very badly. Her mom and grandfather I get, but her best friend who ghosted her for two years? And is kind of awful to her even once they start talking again? Why? What use is this man? Date the ghost possessing him, Jesus.
It was so frustrating for me watching her entire family gaslight her in the name of “protecting her” and Aria just being like sure thank you, makes sense for most of the book. Her current bff doubts her constantly and rolls over what she thinks. The love story is…not good, with her guy former best friend not having spoken to her for two years because he didn’t like that she tried to “solve” where his mother disappeared to and felt it was inconsiderate to his feelings. Which I guess yeah they’re sixteen at the time but also like…he knows this is how she copes? Her own father was murderized and presumably she acted in similar ways around it even though she was younger? So his rejection of who she is just…isn’t addressed and is treated as correct. And then to compound that, he never says anything about it? Just totally blows her off and acts horrible? But meanwhile she’s the one who has to say sorry? Idk that whole thing rubbed me the wrong way and the way her family was on top of it just…ANGERED ME.
The writing is occasionally rocky with dialogue that sits weirdly, but overall it is nice.
The spookiness factor is basically zero, which is not what I signed up for.
And then, to lodge one last complaint - there are a couple of dropped c plots, like what Aria’s sister is up to at college, as well as why Aria is suddenly okay with her mom choosing which college she goes to. Is it setting up for a sequel focused on Adelia? Doesn’t seem like! But who knows?
The good: Providence is so much of a character here, it’s great. And the concept is cool.
The bad: Aria is…a lot. She’s deeply naive, and automatically trusts people who treat her very badly. Her mom and grandfather I get, but her best friend who ghosted her for two years? And is kind of awful to her even once they start talking again? Why? What use is this man? Date the ghost possessing him, Jesus.
It was so frustrating for me watching her entire family gaslight her in the name of “protecting her” and Aria just being like sure thank you, makes sense for most of the book. Her current bff doubts her constantly and rolls over what she thinks. The love story is…not good, with her guy former best friend not having spoken to her for two years because he didn’t like that she tried to “solve” where his mother disappeared to and felt it was inconsiderate to his feelings. Which I guess yeah they’re sixteen at the time but also like…he knows this is how she copes? Her own father was murderized and presumably she acted in similar ways around it even though she was younger? So his rejection of who she is just…isn’t addressed and is treated as correct. And then to compound that, he never says anything about it? Just totally blows her off and acts horrible? But meanwhile she’s the one who has to say sorry? Idk that whole thing rubbed me the wrong way and the way her family was on top of it just…ANGERED ME.
The writing is occasionally rocky with dialogue that sits weirdly, but overall it is nice.
The spookiness factor is basically zero, which is not what I signed up for.
And then, to lodge one last complaint - there are a couple of dropped c plots, like what Aria’s sister is up to at college, as well as why Aria is suddenly okay with her mom choosing which college she goes to. Is it setting up for a sequel focused on Adelia? Doesn’t seem like! But who knows?
January 20, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this ARC.
I wasn't sure what to expect from I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark in terms of what the story would entail, but much like Neilson's previous work, I was enraptured. From the characters to the setting to the intricate plotlines woven throughout the story, this is yet another masterful tale which challenges my idea of what a ghost story can be.
There is a wonderful cadence and rhythm to the sentences that Neilson writes; everything sounds effortlessly poetic, but there is a strong voice grounded in the storytelling, told through Aria's voice.
What starts off as a mystery story involving ghosts and a failed friendship grows into something far more complicated. Interweaving ideas of familial trauma, as well as bodily autonomy, play a major role within this story. Like Neilson's previous works, INSTBITD is layered. There are likely things that I missed on this first reading that I would be delighted to discover on my second. Another fascinating thing about the book is that while it includes a friends-to-lovers trope, Neilson never gives her characters any happy endings easily, leaving me on the edge of my seat. The stakes are high throughout the story, which is why this is such an engrossing read.
Eerie and haunting, yet full of heart, this captivating love story will live in my mind for years to come.
I wasn't sure what to expect from I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark in terms of what the story would entail, but much like Neilson's previous work, I was enraptured. From the characters to the setting to the intricate plotlines woven throughout the story, this is yet another masterful tale which challenges my idea of what a ghost story can be.
There is a wonderful cadence and rhythm to the sentences that Neilson writes; everything sounds effortlessly poetic, but there is a strong voice grounded in the storytelling, told through Aria's voice.
What starts off as a mystery story involving ghosts and a failed friendship grows into something far more complicated. Interweaving ideas of familial trauma, as well as bodily autonomy, play a major role within this story. Like Neilson's previous works, INSTBITD is layered. There are likely things that I missed on this first reading that I would be delighted to discover on my second. Another fascinating thing about the book is that while it includes a friends-to-lovers trope, Neilson never gives her characters any happy endings easily, leaving me on the edge of my seat. The stakes are high throughout the story, which is why this is such an engrossing read.
Eerie and haunting, yet full of heart, this captivating love story will live in my mind for years to come.
July 23, 2023
I know the moment I’m going to love a book when the very first chapter is The dead can’t bother me if I don’t let them in.” But well, it wasn’t “that good” and it also wasn’t “that bad” — 3.5 ⭐
When this book is claimed as “Horror”, I do not see where the horror would be. It was more like thrilling for me. In a good and sense way of ‘you need to keep reading’ which was good. To be honest, if this book is only contained of 5 pages, the breakdown would be like this:
1 - 4: it's for denying, rebelling, and finding what's happening with her, and the introduction
4 - 4.5: try helping Derek and the truth spilled
4.5 - 5: Wait, everything is over (?)
Even though it contained much for me, the magical realism in this book is not “that disappointing!” which is a good thing to bear.
The Storyline, is in a good sense of way that the writing is good with how the flow is going when you get a grasp of what is happening inside the book. However, for the most part of the beginning, it was boring as hell. I almost put this book down when I reached 3-10%ish and try to re-read it again from the beginning because I do really want to give this book a try. As I said in the previous paragraph that 1-4 pages would be the introductions, yeah well that's how it was while I was reading this book. Too long of the introduction contained in this book. I understand that the author probably wants to make us understand how everything works in this magical realism we are diving ourselves into and I also understood that this book is a standalone but for me, personally, the storyline in the beginning is too much and too long for introduction. However, when it comes to the world-building and how the storyline goes it was pretty impressive and relaxing. The choice of words the author had for this book is not that hard to understand. Nevertheless, the poor ending taken quite took a tool of big disappointment for me.
There are several issues this book can be bought up to the surface. The Main Key of the Issues are:
➊ Journaling, not many people know that journaling helps back in the day but nowadays, I see several people prefer to do journaling (or so you ever called writing a diary) rather than telling the other party to go and devour their emotions in the writing papers. It helps with how you can keep in check with your well-being, your mental health, and the lists you never know you needed in your life. In this book, Aria’s journaling to keep in check to her own self is I prefer good self-love. Also, it points out that it’s okay to not be okay.
➋ Societies Issues, this book holds several societal issues that break down into several points;
¹ Woman intends to only have kids and be married when they already reached that age, it was a shame truly. I forgot what year this book take place but certain people nowadays whether in fictional worlds or the real world would somehow have these thoughts for a woman.
² Several children don’t want to take the business fams, it was not a secret anymore when it comes to this. However, the funny thing is, when the child doesn’t want it, the parent pushes them. Meanwhile, when the child does the opposite, the parents always want them to go far away. Funny, isn’t it? This book points out the Grandparent shop Aria loved.
³ Lend them ears, not your mouth, people only wanted someone to listen to them. People sometimes always thought that when the other person was sharing some stories, they always wanted some advice, meanwhile, the truth was not always like that. Sometimes, those people only wanted someone to be there for them to lend their shoulders and ears only. This book was heartbreaking enough when it comes to Derek and I can feel the same way why he was being that towards Aria. Even though I won’t be blamed for Aria’s actions in the past but they could communicate these through rather than having snowballs between their steps.
⁴ Don’t keep your child in the dark, this certain issue is what happened with Aria’ and the reason why she was always asked to be drinking her tea. It was quite annoying when know the reason why the families did what they did to her. Even though the reason is pretty acceptable but still, it doesn’t have to be hidden in secret, she deserves to know!
⁵ The Good and the Bad balancing, this one was priceless and it also points out the magical works in this book. Because everything of good is happening would always have a bad effect on it. The magic work in this book is a good point this book had. I also think about the consequences Aria took in her action.
⁶ Greedy of Power, well. I wouldn’t need to write it down more when it comes to the reason why Aria’s family did because the other party who knows her ability was greedy and wanted to take advantage of it. But not everything is about money and power.
➌ Asian Heritage, I wasn’t surprised when I heard about the Asian heritage on the magic because several times, there are lots of myths that pointed out about the Filipino side of this book. Also, I wasn’t surprised when this book mentioned Asian heritage because somehow, Asians always have the biggest source of magic. It wasn’t something to be ashamed of but it was indeed predictable.
¹ Against Inter-racial marriage, it was known as if you married a different race, it would be a disgrace to the family. It was written and pointed out several times in this book in the Aria families. However, that thing was not the main issue which was quite disappointing that it only has a slight sentence and storyline when it comes to this. Because I think, it would be good enough if this one was some of the main issues.
❹ Let the death rest in peace. I think this one was the most main issue and where it all began. Even though I was nowhere on the answer to why it was happening in the first place about this beautiful matchmaker, I was expecting something more when I discovered the truth about him and why he did what he did. It just left me unsatisfied and I need more answers to that point.
The Characters. This book has several of my favorites, Lindy and Marcus. Those two people have the way to my heart very often. Those two also have different traits from each other and they didn’t come across one another if I’m not mistaken, but I love them both. The other characters, who are the MC and the love interest were not disappointed as much and they also had some development even though the main reason they developed was way too long when it come to that term. It was still acceptable tho, because I believe they all were still in High School and they still try to gain some puberty hits on their own time. There is no annoying character in a bad way, but the characters inside this book have some of their own traits and are reasonable enough for the action they took. So, they are all loveable but I prefer those two.
The Questions that left me hanging:
❶ Why it has to be Aria? — I get that she is the MC but why?
❷ Why it has to be Marcus?
❸ Why it has to be Derek? Why not Aria’s mother? Why not Derek’s father or any other Aria family member? to be attached to “that”
❹ Why none of them are dead? it just nonsense, one of them supposed to suffer because of the magic and all
❺ Only that is the price for Aria? pity. It can be built again tho
Overall, I enjoyed this book when it comes to the spirits only and when it was almost at the end of the storyline. The beginning was quite boring but it paid off with the middle storyline even though the ending was just blaaah and truly disappointing. I also appreciate the issues this book brought because it was quite common and written up on the surface, so not really hard to point them out
Thank you Netgalley for giving me privilege for reading this book before the publication date.
When this book is claimed as “Horror”, I do not see where the horror would be. It was more like thrilling for me. In a good and sense way of ‘you need to keep reading’ which was good. To be honest, if this book is only contained of 5 pages, the breakdown would be like this:
1 - 4: it's for denying, rebelling, and finding what's happening with her, and the introduction
4 - 4.5: try helping Derek and the truth spilled
4.5 - 5: Wait, everything is over (?)
Even though it contained much for me, the magical realism in this book is not “that disappointing!” which is a good thing to bear.
The Storyline, is in a good sense of way that the writing is good with how the flow is going when you get a grasp of what is happening inside the book. However, for the most part of the beginning, it was boring as hell. I almost put this book down when I reached 3-10%ish and try to re-read it again from the beginning because I do really want to give this book a try. As I said in the previous paragraph that 1-4 pages would be the introductions, yeah well that's how it was while I was reading this book. Too long of the introduction contained in this book. I understand that the author probably wants to make us understand how everything works in this magical realism we are diving ourselves into and I also understood that this book is a standalone but for me, personally, the storyline in the beginning is too much and too long for introduction. However, when it comes to the world-building and how the storyline goes it was pretty impressive and relaxing. The choice of words the author had for this book is not that hard to understand. Nevertheless, the poor ending taken quite took a tool of big disappointment for me.
There are several issues this book can be bought up to the surface. The Main Key of the Issues are:
➊ Journaling, not many people know that journaling helps back in the day but nowadays, I see several people prefer to do journaling (or so you ever called writing a diary) rather than telling the other party to go and devour their emotions in the writing papers. It helps with how you can keep in check with your well-being, your mental health, and the lists you never know you needed in your life. In this book, Aria’s journaling to keep in check to her own self is I prefer good self-love. Also, it points out that it’s okay to not be okay.
➋ Societies Issues, this book holds several societal issues that break down into several points;
¹ Woman intends to only have kids and be married when they already reached that age, it was a shame truly. I forgot what year this book take place but certain people nowadays whether in fictional worlds or the real world would somehow have these thoughts for a woman.
² Several children don’t want to take the business fams, it was not a secret anymore when it comes to this. However, the funny thing is, when the child doesn’t want it, the parent pushes them. Meanwhile, when the child does the opposite, the parents always want them to go far away. Funny, isn’t it? This book points out the Grandparent shop Aria loved.
³ Lend them ears, not your mouth, people only wanted someone to listen to them. People sometimes always thought that when the other person was sharing some stories, they always wanted some advice, meanwhile, the truth was not always like that. Sometimes, those people only wanted someone to be there for them to lend their shoulders and ears only. This book was heartbreaking enough when it comes to Derek and I can feel the same way why he was being that towards Aria. Even though I won’t be blamed for Aria’s actions in the past but they could communicate these through rather than having snowballs between their steps.
⁴ Don’t keep your child in the dark, this certain issue is what happened with Aria’ and the reason why she was always asked to be drinking her tea. It was quite annoying when know the reason why the families did what they did to her. Even though the reason is pretty acceptable but still, it doesn’t have to be hidden in secret, she deserves to know!
⁵ The Good and the Bad balancing, this one was priceless and it also points out the magical works in this book. Because everything of good is happening would always have a bad effect on it. The magic work in this book is a good point this book had. I also think about the consequences Aria took in her action.
⁶ Greedy of Power, well. I wouldn’t need to write it down more when it comes to the reason why Aria’s family did because the other party who knows her ability was greedy and wanted to take advantage of it. But not everything is about money and power.
➌ Asian Heritage, I wasn’t surprised when I heard about the Asian heritage on the magic because several times, there are lots of myths that pointed out about the Filipino side of this book. Also, I wasn’t surprised when this book mentioned Asian heritage because somehow, Asians always have the biggest source of magic. It wasn’t something to be ashamed of but it was indeed predictable.
¹ Against Inter-racial marriage, it was known as if you married a different race, it would be a disgrace to the family. It was written and pointed out several times in this book in the Aria families. However, that thing was not the main issue which was quite disappointing that it only has a slight sentence and storyline when it comes to this. Because I think, it would be good enough if this one was some of the main issues.
❹ Let the death rest in peace. I think this one was the most main issue and where it all began. Even though I was nowhere on the answer to why it was happening in the first place about this beautiful matchmaker, I was expecting something more when I discovered the truth about him and why he did what he did. It just left me unsatisfied and I need more answers to that point.
The Characters. This book has several of my favorites, Lindy and Marcus. Those two people have the way to my heart very often. Those two also have different traits from each other and they didn’t come across one another if I’m not mistaken, but I love them both. The other characters, who are the MC and the love interest were not disappointed as much and they also had some development even though the main reason they developed was way too long when it come to that term. It was still acceptable tho, because I believe they all were still in High School and they still try to gain some puberty hits on their own time. There is no annoying character in a bad way, but the characters inside this book have some of their own traits and are reasonable enough for the action they took. So, they are all loveable but I prefer those two.
The Questions that left me hanging:
❶ Why it has to be Aria? — I get that she is the MC but why?
❷ Why it has to be Marcus?
❸ Why it has to be Derek? Why not Aria’s mother? Why not Derek’s father or any other Aria family member? to be attached to “that”
❹ Why none of them are dead? it just nonsense, one of them supposed to suffer because of the magic and all
❺ Only that is the price for Aria? pity. It can be built again tho
Overall, I enjoyed this book when it comes to the spirits only and when it was almost at the end of the storyline. The beginning was quite boring but it paid off with the middle storyline even though the ending was just blaaah and truly disappointing. I also appreciate the issues this book brought because it was quite common and written up on the surface, so not really hard to point them out
Thank you Netgalley for giving me privilege for reading this book before the publication date.
July 3, 2023
From her first memories, Aria, now 17, has known she was different than the other people around her because she has such vivid dreams of ghosts. To keep the dreams at bay, her mother has her drink a special tea twice a day that her grandfather has made for her. Her best friend until two years ago stopped talking to her is the boy across the street Derek.
At about the same time Aria decides to stop drinking the tea without telling anyone, Derek begins acting strangely and attempts to become her friend once again. This book is filled with all things many YA readers love love angst, secrets, strange families, ghosts, possession, and so much more.
It is a definite purchase for our library media center and likely to be the subject of a Book Talk to get students reading it. One thing that makes this book special is that Aria is half-Filipino and we have a student population who rarely, if ever, see themselves as the main character in a novel.
Thank you Net Galley and McMillan Children's Publishing Group, Henry Holt and Company for the opportunity to read this in return for a truthful review.
At about the same time Aria decides to stop drinking the tea without telling anyone, Derek begins acting strangely and attempts to become her friend once again. This book is filled with all things many YA readers love love angst, secrets, strange families, ghosts, possession, and so much more.
It is a definite purchase for our library media center and likely to be the subject of a Book Talk to get students reading it. One thing that makes this book special is that Aria is half-Filipino and we have a student population who rarely, if ever, see themselves as the main character in a novel.
Thank you Net Galley and McMillan Children's Publishing Group, Henry Holt and Company for the opportunity to read this in return for a truthful review.
Read
February 23, 2023Disclaimer: I was provided a digital galley via NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing. This does not affect my opinion.
I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is a magical, beautifully agonizing novel. This book will sweep you under a spell and hold your hand as it plays on your emotions.
Rating: Starred
Check out my full review on my blog Belle's Archive tomorrow!
Trigger/Content Warning(s): Possession (of a person), Underage Drinking (minor scene), Death, Near-Death Experiences (mentioned), Unknown Drugging (using plant-based remedies), Threat(s)---please note this list is subject to change, as it is made from my memory after reading.
I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark is a magical, beautifully agonizing novel. This book will sweep you under a spell and hold your hand as it plays on your emotions.
Rating: Starred
Check out my full review on my blog Belle's Archive tomorrow!
Trigger/Content Warning(s): Possession (of a person), Underage Drinking (minor scene), Death, Near-Death Experiences (mentioned), Unknown Drugging (using plant-based remedies), Threat(s)---please note this list is subject to change, as it is made from my memory after reading.
April 25, 2023
I enjoyed this one! The build up was a little long for my taste, but the ending was worth it.
Aria is flawed and gifted, but she’s unaware of both. To see her struggle and try to become a better person was a great representation of a YA book. I enjoyed her story, and the way it was told. Being inside of her fragile mind was enlightening. I also really enjoyed her notes in her notebook.
The romance was perfect, tension, will they/won’t they, friends turned enemies turned lovers. It was honestly the highlight of the whole book!
Aria is flawed and gifted, but she’s unaware of both. To see her struggle and try to become a better person was a great representation of a YA book. I enjoyed her story, and the way it was told. Being inside of her fragile mind was enlightening. I also really enjoyed her notes in her notebook.
The romance was perfect, tension, will they/won’t they, friends turned enemies turned lovers. It was honestly the highlight of the whole book!
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August 30, 2023Check out our full book club review on Youtube If you prefer to listen you can check us out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
January 19, 2023
Thank you, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, for allowing me to read I'm Not Supposed to Be in the Dark early.
The cover is stunning! I loved Riss M. Neilson's debut a lot, so I looked really forward to her second book. And it didn't disappoint. I really loved this one too!
The cover is stunning! I loved Riss M. Neilson's debut a lot, so I looked really forward to her second book. And it didn't disappoint. I really loved this one too!
January 3, 2024
We love a good ghost story 👻
December 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this YA fantasy read!
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