Between the Lives

by Jessica Shirvington

[Kelly]

http://www.divabooknerd.com/2014/10/between-lives-by-jessica-shirvington.html
Jessica Shirvington, you are brilliant. Between The Lives drew me in, kept me enthralled and left me absolutely broken. From the first few chapters, I found myself emotionally involved in both Sabine's lives, and the real girl underneath both personas. She lived both lives as expected of those around her, but has held the secret of the two worlds her entire life. She feels incredibly alone.

But the genuine version of Sabine lines between her two worlds, where no one knows who she truly is. My heart ached for her situation, which could be considered a metaphor for how so many teens feel during those awkward years of finding their feet and their place in the world. It was beautifully written with almost a poetic tone, intelligent and unique. I loved how Sabine was able to retain a separate identity in both her lives, even though neither was a reflection of her true self. She was sassy and social aware, but leading both lives has left her tired and she tests the limits to see how separate her two worlds have now become. Until she meets Ethan.

I loved Ethan. His character was a turning point in Sabine's life and offered salvation, even without wanting to deter her decision. He represented life and urged her to consider her choices. But most of all, he was able to see the real Sabine, not the girl who was committed for an alleged mental illness or seemingly self harming. He was the support Sabine's character desperately needed, for someone just to see the real girl.

Jessica Shirvington is phenomenal. I should have prepared myself for the deep emotional investment after having read and loved Disruption. The stunning turns the storyline took left me breathless and emotionally spent. Another brilliant Aussie author added to my favourites list.