Kim Deister
Written on Aug 9, 2013
The entire premise behind this series is unique, especially in YA/NA literature. It is also unlike anything I have ever read. The Station is exactly what it is called... a way station for those who have committed suicide. It is neither Heaven nor Hell, nor even Purgatory in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a place to make choices: to move on immediately and live in eternity with the pain and sorrow that led you to suicide or to become the temporary subconscious of others still living but contemplating suicide.
Not only do we see the world through Piper's eyes, but through the eyes of those she is assigned to help. This opens up the range of emotions from just one character to everyone whose mind Piper temporarily inhabits. I think part of what makes these books so special is that the characters are inherently damaged. They aren't perfect; they don't make perfect choices. They are where they are because of horrible situations and choices, and they still strive to change. There is a great deal of heartache and bittersweet emotions, but there is also hope.
There were some mighty twists and turns with this book, right from the very beginning. I didn't see them coming and some of them were quite the shock. Piper's assignment in this one nearly killed me, so emotionally sad and horrific. But, like the first book, this was a beautiful story.
Things to love about Dying to Remember...
--The characters. I love the interactions with Kerry-Anne and Mallory. Kerry-Anne is the little sister that I would want to have and I love Mallory's compassion and caring for Piper.
--The unexpected twists and turns. With the twists and turns came no small amount of sadness, but with many of them came hope and a new happiness. Beautiful and deeply moving.
My recommendation: This book, like Dying to Forget, is moving and beautiful, even with the heart wrenching moments. A must read, but not a light one.