David Arnold’s “I Loved You In Another Life” is a poignant exploration of love and loss through the lens of youth. This Young Adult novel captures the essence of an emotional, sweet, and romantic tale that is as much about a personal journey as it is about the characters’ connections.
The narrative starts at a slow pace, which allowed me to immerse myself in the world Arnold has crafted. The use of multiple points of view (POVs), each with a distinct writing style, adds depth to the storytelling, presenting a multifaceted look at the themes of grief, sobriety and family.
Arnold’s prose is beautifully written, with a lyrical quality that resonated with me. The “E.T.” references are a delightful touch, bringing a sense of nostalgia and joy to those familiar with the classic tale. I just HAD to watch the movie again, after reading this book.
5 Reasons to read this book
- Poignant Love Story: The book is primarily about the heartfelt love that develops between Evan Taft and Shosh Bell, two teenagers whose souls cross paths repeatedly over the years1. This story delves into the evolution of love and the notion that certain souls are destined to be together forever
- David Arnold is well-known for his lyrical prose, and this book is no different. His writing is praised for being both poetic and devastating, vividly capturing the feelings of the characters and the setting they live in
- Novel’s Unusual Genre Blend: It combines elements of the fantasy, young adult, magical realism, romance, and contemporary genres. Fans of many genres will find this blend to be a rich and varied reading experience.
- Original Songs: David Arnold has composed and recorded original songs that go well with the narrative, which further enhances the book’s distinctiveness. This imaginative component provides a fully immersive experience that transcends the printed word.
- Themes of Resilience and Hope: The book has an overall pleasant and comforting tone, even in the face of the tragedies the characters have to deal with. It asserts that love endures, giving its readers a message of resiliency and hope.
Overall, “I Loved You In Another Life” is a testament to Arnold’s ability to weave a story that is both intimate and universal. It’s a book that will linger in your thoughts, prompting reflection on the loves and lives that touch us deeply.
With thanks to Pan MacMillan SA for this review copy.
About this book: I Loved You In Another Life by David Arnold – Pan Macmillan
About the author: I Loved You in Another Life — David Arnold (davidarnoldbooks.com)
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