Superbly written novel about love, loss, and sacrifice that will leave you heartbroken but fulfilled.

Do you know those books that creep up on you when you least expect it? The ones that make you feel bone-deep sadness but also hope? The ones that make you wonder, "Have I ever truly been loved?" In Another Life by Amanda Hale is one such book and I am not ashamed to admit I ugly cried at the end.

I adored the spin of soulmates and the inclusion of past lives. This book asks us the question, have we existed before?

"Our past is what ties us. Our love is what is wreaking havoc on her soul. Make the ultimate sacrifice and leave his heart behind knowing that she will."

Carter has moved on to the afterlife but instead of walking towards the light, he stays on to watch the love of his life. Just when he thinks they are going to have their happily ever after, she is reborn and he reconnects with her from a distance. Carter knows that his presence affects Brooke, but his love and sense of duty to protect her keep him grounded. He wants so badly to touch, kiss, and love her, but as a ghost, all he can do is be a voyager as Brooke navigates her life.

I made a promise to her all those years ago. I would watch over her, protect her, and love her. She was chosen for a second life, and I wasn’t. I remain almost the same as the moment I took my last breath. But she has changed in this life. She is stronger, more beautiful than I remember...

Amanda Hale absolutely shattered me with her writing and I am hungry for more destruction. The simplistic way she pens such evocative emotions were truly compelling and I felt both empty and full after reading this. The paranormal elements were perfectly balanced with the story so I never once felt overwhelmed or thought it was excessive.

I adored the secondary characters and felt highly emotionally invested in this storyline. This isn't just a love story, but one of sacrifice, hope, and belief. I thought I knew what was happening but I was honestly shocked to my core at the ending.

I would highly recommend this for persons who want to feel something and enjoy romance with a tinge or paranormal.

Thank you to Reedsy Discovery for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review