Scan barcode
A review by amenalf53
In-Between by MJ James
5.0
4.5 stars for a unique story
I devoured this book. It is from a unique perspective and describes very difficult aspects of the real world, from the struggles of the autistic main character (Alicia) to abuse to starvation and political tyranny, without flinching or sugarcoating. At the same time, it is a heartwarming story — in every place, from beginning to end, Alicia does what is best for her child, even when it is hard for her, and I admire her bravery and strength. Her perspective is vivid, so vivid that I could almost walk in her shoes, and I understood what she was saying certain things and why she was saying them. Alongside that, this book didn’t lack in the fantasy: the concept of the In-Between is fascinating and original, and the elven magic ideas complemented it. Excellent work.
I subtract half a star (though it’s rounded up to five online) for a few things that bothered me: some inconsistencies in how Kenny, Alicia’s son, and others were depicted, and an ending that felt a little rushed. At the same time, these characters did captivate me, and the ending felt both satisfying and real.
All in all, a book I definitely recommend, including to those who haven’t read ones with an ace and autistic rep and a M/M romance. This book is a great place to start expanding one’s viewpoint. I will be reading more from this author.
I devoured this book. It is from a unique perspective and describes very difficult aspects of the real world, from the struggles of the autistic main character (Alicia) to abuse to starvation and political tyranny, without flinching or sugarcoating. At the same time, it is a heartwarming story — in every place, from beginning to end, Alicia does what is best for her child, even when it is hard for her, and I admire her bravery and strength. Her perspective is vivid, so vivid that I could almost walk in her shoes, and I understood what she was saying certain things and why she was saying them. Alongside that, this book didn’t lack in the fantasy: the concept of the In-Between is fascinating and original, and the elven magic ideas complemented it. Excellent work.
I subtract half a star (though it’s rounded up to five online) for a few things that bothered me: some inconsistencies in how Kenny, Alicia’s son, and others were depicted, and an ending that felt a little rushed. At the same time, these characters did captivate me, and the ending felt both satisfying and real.
All in all, a book I definitely recommend, including to those who haven’t read ones with an ace and autistic rep and a M/M romance. This book is a great place to start expanding one’s viewpoint. I will be reading more from this author.