I stumbled on Avasthi’s book by chance. Browsing my library’s YA literature, this came up as available. I checked it out and read it over two days. The story starts well enough but by the time I was mid way, my heart was racing and I was as jumpy as Jace and Christian. The pace of the story, the minimal but well fleshed out characters, the attention to detail, the simple prose all of it come together and make the book shine.

As much as the story follows predictable turns, the storytelling is taut and the language crisp to keep you hooked.

Domestic abuse lends itself to dramatic storytelling but Avasthi has kept it understated, bald and stark. When you finish reading the last page, you lean back in your chair, close your eyes and imagine that Jace and Christian make it after all. You are invested in the characters and they linger long after you are done reading the book.

In the mood for literary YA? Pick Split by Swati Avasthi. You will not be disappointed. Definitely an author to watch for.

Books Review YA Young Adult Split Swati Avasthi YA Young Adult