And We Stay by Jenny Hubbard was an eARC from netgalley and it had a great cover and so I read it. Again, I know as well as anyone not to judge a book by its cover, but in this case, I am glad I did. And We Stay was a 5-Star read. Heart-breaking and hopeful. I didn't realize until I finished the book that the author's first book was Paper Covers Rock, which I really didn't like at all. I didn't like it so much, that I doubt I would have given And We Stay a chance, had I remembered. I'm glad I didn't remember, though, because And We Stay was beautifully written and realistic and I learned so much about Emily Dickinson. The book is set in Amherst, Massachusettes, where Dickinson was born, lived a pretty much reclusive life and died. The Museum itself actually figures prominently in the story. Emily Beam's ex-boyfriend, Paul commits suicide in their school library and Emily is dealing with all of the guilt and hell left behind. In an attempt to heal, she transfers to a boarding school in Amherst. The ghost of Emily Dickinson is all around and it helps Emily Beam to face the sorrows of her past. Well drawn characters and a wonderful use of setting. Great, heart-breaking story, with a lot of terrific, soul-ripping poetry as well. Really enjoyed this book.
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