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Otherwise
Reluctantly, Delilah Gray has returned to her childhood home—a ramshackle cottage where her compulsive, hoarding grandmother, Meema, raised her. Meema’s ghostly manifestations refuse to let Delilah clean the filthy house, or to stay there peacefully. And that’s just the beginning of Delilah’s problems. Lonely, angry, and hiding a painful secret, she tries to find a place for herself in a town that she once discovered was “in-between”—a portal to the worlds of the supernatural. Upon her arrival, Delilah unwittingly gets caught in the middle of important business between The Keeper, whose job it is to keep souls on the physical plane, and The Sender who helps speed the dead on their afterlife journey. When Delilah discovers that she is connected to Lily Defoe, a woman who leapt to her death many years ago, and to a man who refers to himself as The Gravedigger for Lost Souls, she realizes there is more to her homecoming than she anticipated. Who she is, and who she’s been, crosses the boundaries of life and death. Nothing—not the people she meets, not this very moment in time, not even the tragic death of her daughter—is what it appears to be. Not only does Delilah have her own “soul searching” to do, but she must work with some of Green Lake’s oddest characters to uncover the mysteries of several unsolved deaths that have never been forgotten. While strange and supernatural occurrences threaten Delilah’s already fragile emotional state, she still has a crucial choice to make that will change everything. She comes to understand that there are some things that are worse than death. There is Otherwise—to be confined to a twilight state between the spiritual and the physical worlds. OTHERWISE is a chilling tale about lonely spirits, protective forces, and departed loved ones who are never really gone—and a woman who, after wanting to die, finds a reason to live and to love again. Only to discover what it is to be Otherwise.
- GenresFiction
340 pages, Paperback
First published December 21, 2011
23 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 24, 2012
** Originally posted to: Bookish Blog
Jennifer B. White's novel, Otherwise, should come with a warning: DANGEROUSLY ADDICTIVE. This book is so different from anything I've read before! I was fascinated, mesmerized, shocked at times, but mostly just very pleased with its originality and vibrant energy. White's simple and raw writing style makes reading this supernatural treat a complete pleasure, and her ability to weave so many parallel plot lines and then braid them together into a complex and thoroughly satisfying novel is simply amazing. Needless to say, I was very impressed.
Delilah's grandmother was a compulsive hoarder. She collected everything - old clothing, newspapers, cardboard boxes filled with stacks of things most of us would consider junk, dolls, even expired (and often rotten) food. Living with her was a constant struggle and all Delilah ever wanted was to get away. Leave. Run away and never look back. And she did, as soon as she turned seventeen. Now, with her grandmother dead, Delilah finds herself back in the small town she grew up in. She's determined to clean up her grandmother's old cottage and get rid of the piles of garbage once and for all, making her childhood home inhabitable again.
But strange things begin to happen to Delilah. First, her car disappears. Then the electricity at the cottage magically fixes itself. She meets a mysterious stranger, who keeps on appearing from nowhere and disappearing seemingly into thin air. Delilah's hometown is a mysterious place, eerie and unwelcoming to strangers, very protective of its secrets. There's a deliciously dream-like quality to it. Delilah is about to discover things she never thought existed. Not only will she have to find a way to make peace with her own past, but in order to re-discover purpose in her life, she's going to have to solve several mysterious deaths that have been haunting the town for generations. Remember, anything is possible in the town of "otherwise".
Otherwise is a magical read. I fell under its spell on the first page. I don't know what it is about this book, but I couldn't bring myself to put it down. The simplistic language really spoke to me, and I found it very easy to connect with the main characters. Delilah was a delightful MC, and a very unconventional one at that! Fighting ghosts of her own, emotionally fragile, snarky, with the penchant for swear words, she was refreshingly cool. I was constantly surprised by everything she did and all the things she said. There was no predicting what Delilah will say or do next. Seeing her re-discover love, pleasure, and hope, and watching her morph from a scared, emotionally damaged girl, who basically gave up on happiness all together, into a strong, passionate, and determined woman - that was priceless and ultimately satisfying. Shane was a great character, too, but as much as I loved his mysteriousness and undeniable charm, I think I loved Winnie even more. This elderly flower shop/antique store owner was a real treat and I really enjoyed reading about her. To be honest, all the characters were unique and brilliantly fleshed out, and I found myself really engrossed in their stories.
The plot line alone would be enough to satisfy even the most picky supernatural fan. There was so much going on! The complexity of the world-and-character-building is mind-blowing. I was awe-struck. It really is a magnetic and addictive read, and I'm 100% sure that once you start reading, you will find yourself unable to toss it aside and get back to your every-day activities. Beware: this book will consume you! Personally, I found it totally fascinating to read about the compulsive hoarding disorder. The insights into the sickness provided by the author were truly compelling and thought-provoking, especially since the story focused rather on the emotional and psychological distress of the family members, rather than the sick herself.
Overall, Otherwise is a strong story with elements of romance, supernatural, mystery and drama that is sure to entertain and please even the pickiest reader. Jennifer B. White delivered a captivating, bewitching tale, that is just as harrowing as it is moving, and just as entertaining as it is serious. What can I say? I really loved it!
Jennifer B. White's novel, Otherwise, should come with a warning: DANGEROUSLY ADDICTIVE. This book is so different from anything I've read before! I was fascinated, mesmerized, shocked at times, but mostly just very pleased with its originality and vibrant energy. White's simple and raw writing style makes reading this supernatural treat a complete pleasure, and her ability to weave so many parallel plot lines and then braid them together into a complex and thoroughly satisfying novel is simply amazing. Needless to say, I was very impressed.
Delilah's grandmother was a compulsive hoarder. She collected everything - old clothing, newspapers, cardboard boxes filled with stacks of things most of us would consider junk, dolls, even expired (and often rotten) food. Living with her was a constant struggle and all Delilah ever wanted was to get away. Leave. Run away and never look back. And she did, as soon as she turned seventeen. Now, with her grandmother dead, Delilah finds herself back in the small town she grew up in. She's determined to clean up her grandmother's old cottage and get rid of the piles of garbage once and for all, making her childhood home inhabitable again.
But strange things begin to happen to Delilah. First, her car disappears. Then the electricity at the cottage magically fixes itself. She meets a mysterious stranger, who keeps on appearing from nowhere and disappearing seemingly into thin air. Delilah's hometown is a mysterious place, eerie and unwelcoming to strangers, very protective of its secrets. There's a deliciously dream-like quality to it. Delilah is about to discover things she never thought existed. Not only will she have to find a way to make peace with her own past, but in order to re-discover purpose in her life, she's going to have to solve several mysterious deaths that have been haunting the town for generations. Remember, anything is possible in the town of "otherwise".
Otherwise is a magical read. I fell under its spell on the first page. I don't know what it is about this book, but I couldn't bring myself to put it down. The simplistic language really spoke to me, and I found it very easy to connect with the main characters. Delilah was a delightful MC, and a very unconventional one at that! Fighting ghosts of her own, emotionally fragile, snarky, with the penchant for swear words, she was refreshingly cool. I was constantly surprised by everything she did and all the things she said. There was no predicting what Delilah will say or do next. Seeing her re-discover love, pleasure, and hope, and watching her morph from a scared, emotionally damaged girl, who basically gave up on happiness all together, into a strong, passionate, and determined woman - that was priceless and ultimately satisfying. Shane was a great character, too, but as much as I loved his mysteriousness and undeniable charm, I think I loved Winnie even more. This elderly flower shop/antique store owner was a real treat and I really enjoyed reading about her. To be honest, all the characters were unique and brilliantly fleshed out, and I found myself really engrossed in their stories.
The plot line alone would be enough to satisfy even the most picky supernatural fan. There was so much going on! The complexity of the world-and-character-building is mind-blowing. I was awe-struck. It really is a magnetic and addictive read, and I'm 100% sure that once you start reading, you will find yourself unable to toss it aside and get back to your every-day activities. Beware: this book will consume you! Personally, I found it totally fascinating to read about the compulsive hoarding disorder. The insights into the sickness provided by the author were truly compelling and thought-provoking, especially since the story focused rather on the emotional and psychological distress of the family members, rather than the sick herself.
Overall, Otherwise is a strong story with elements of romance, supernatural, mystery and drama that is sure to entertain and please even the pickiest reader. Jennifer B. White delivered a captivating, bewitching tale, that is just as harrowing as it is moving, and just as entertaining as it is serious. What can I say? I really loved it!
March 14, 2012
I left out some one the characters that i originally put in my review so if you want to read more, check out the entire review on my review blog
Despite the fact that this is an adult book and not YA, this book is still pretty awesome. Being written in 3rd person, the world the author created in otherwise was very well explained. Most questions the reader might be having regarding the Otherwise, the Keeper, The Sender or basically anything was explained in a very...appropriate way to the reader. By that, I mean the way things were explained weren't just stated as facts randomly in the book, they were explained by the characters in different moments when explaining something in the characters life. Like flashbacks or one more experienced character explaining something to a less experienced one. In someways, a reader could complain about how the book jumps around from flashbacks to revolving around different characters, but that's what makes the book so exhilarating to read. I can honestly say that, at first, I had a hard time staying into the book, but pretty soon I could hardly stop reading.
The building of knowledge while waiting to see what happens next. It was an interesting writing style.
There is also some foreshadowing that is very ominous. One thing I can really appreciate about the author is how she uses irony very effectively. The reader knows more than the main protagonist, Delilah. We read of the interactions between the other characters and Delilah remains ignorant to it.
Speaking of characters...
Delilah had many struggles, most seeming to be about trust and loss and love. She is a very stubborn girl and, in the beginning especially, she can jump to conclusions ridiculously fast. One thing that really stood out to me was the fact that she doesn't like it when people (Shane) are able to read her easily. That brings out her defensive side...and her cussing one, too. Anyway, her character changed a lot through out the progression of the book. I won't elaborate, though, you all can find what I mean.
I won't elaborate too much on the other characters, mostly because there's a good handful of them and I don't want to risk accidentally revealing some important stuff in the book. But, I will say that the characters are developed well and most of the time, the people you see as bad and good are not what you originally thought.
Well to end off this review I'll say that the ending was well played. Many questions were resolved, and there was an overall sense of happily ever after. But I sort of wish there will be a sequel. You know how it is, you never want a character's life...to....end...
Yeah... um, bad word choice....
Well, on that note, I give Otherwise a B+ as an overall rating for the interesting world the author created, devious yet captivating characters, flowing plot line and an overall interesting story. Recommended to anyone who likes mysteriousness, paranormal and supernatural aspects and otherworldly creatures.
Despite the fact that this is an adult book and not YA, this book is still pretty awesome. Being written in 3rd person, the world the author created in otherwise was very well explained. Most questions the reader might be having regarding the Otherwise, the Keeper, The Sender or basically anything was explained in a very...appropriate way to the reader. By that, I mean the way things were explained weren't just stated as facts randomly in the book, they were explained by the characters in different moments when explaining something in the characters life. Like flashbacks or one more experienced character explaining something to a less experienced one. In someways, a reader could complain about how the book jumps around from flashbacks to revolving around different characters, but that's what makes the book so exhilarating to read. I can honestly say that, at first, I had a hard time staying into the book, but pretty soon I could hardly stop reading.
The building of knowledge while waiting to see what happens next. It was an interesting writing style.
There is also some foreshadowing that is very ominous. One thing I can really appreciate about the author is how she uses irony very effectively. The reader knows more than the main protagonist, Delilah. We read of the interactions between the other characters and Delilah remains ignorant to it.
Speaking of characters...
Delilah had many struggles, most seeming to be about trust and loss and love. She is a very stubborn girl and, in the beginning especially, she can jump to conclusions ridiculously fast. One thing that really stood out to me was the fact that she doesn't like it when people (Shane) are able to read her easily. That brings out her defensive side...and her cussing one, too. Anyway, her character changed a lot through out the progression of the book. I won't elaborate, though, you all can find what I mean.
I won't elaborate too much on the other characters, mostly because there's a good handful of them and I don't want to risk accidentally revealing some important stuff in the book. But, I will say that the characters are developed well and most of the time, the people you see as bad and good are not what you originally thought.
Well to end off this review I'll say that the ending was well played. Many questions were resolved, and there was an overall sense of happily ever after. But I sort of wish there will be a sequel. You know how it is, you never want a character's life...to....end...
Yeah... um, bad word choice....
Well, on that note, I give Otherwise a B+ as an overall rating for the interesting world the author created, devious yet captivating characters, flowing plot line and an overall interesting story. Recommended to anyone who likes mysteriousness, paranormal and supernatural aspects and otherworldly creatures.
February 17, 2012
An engaging and intriguing tale of the paranormal
I have also interviewed Jennifer B White for my blog
When 26 year old Delilah returns to the town she was brought up in, she discovers that some things never change. Her old grandmother is now dead, but the ramshackle cottage that she lived in is still full of all the junk that had accumulated over the years, and Delilah despairs of the task ahead of her in clearing the place out to make it habitable.
But strange things begin to happen to her, and gradually she becomes aware that this town has two sorts of inhabitants - the living, and the “otherwise”. Within the town is one woman - living - who is able to speak to the spirits that are “otherwise”, and gradually during the telling of the story, lies and secrets from the past are revealed culminating in a dramatic and surprising climax.
Otherwise is a well written novel by a person who one can only believe has some real affinity with the paranormal. Her characters are real, believable, and human (even when they are not). It is difficult to write a review of this book without giving away its secrets - but it is more than just a tale about spirits. It is a story about how spirits might want to cling on to the world, because at the time of their passing there were still issues to be resolved. It’s a story of love, but also of murder and deceit. The final outcome was a surprise, and one which felt slightly uncomfortable to me, as the normally astute Winnie had totally misread one situation.
Although I don’t normally read novels of this kind, I found it very engaging. I had no trouble finding the story highly credible, although there were one or two points that my naturally logical mind struggled with when the lines between living and dead seemed to be unnecessarily crossed. But they were very minor issues for me in an otherwise highly enjoyable read.
I have also interviewed Jennifer B White for my blog
When 26 year old Delilah returns to the town she was brought up in, she discovers that some things never change. Her old grandmother is now dead, but the ramshackle cottage that she lived in is still full of all the junk that had accumulated over the years, and Delilah despairs of the task ahead of her in clearing the place out to make it habitable.
But strange things begin to happen to her, and gradually she becomes aware that this town has two sorts of inhabitants - the living, and the “otherwise”. Within the town is one woman - living - who is able to speak to the spirits that are “otherwise”, and gradually during the telling of the story, lies and secrets from the past are revealed culminating in a dramatic and surprising climax.
Otherwise is a well written novel by a person who one can only believe has some real affinity with the paranormal. Her characters are real, believable, and human (even when they are not). It is difficult to write a review of this book without giving away its secrets - but it is more than just a tale about spirits. It is a story about how spirits might want to cling on to the world, because at the time of their passing there were still issues to be resolved. It’s a story of love, but also of murder and deceit. The final outcome was a surprise, and one which felt slightly uncomfortable to me, as the normally astute Winnie had totally misread one situation.
Although I don’t normally read novels of this kind, I found it very engaging. I had no trouble finding the story highly credible, although there were one or two points that my naturally logical mind struggled with when the lines between living and dead seemed to be unnecessarily crossed. But they were very minor issues for me in an otherwise highly enjoyable read.
February 18, 2012
This book captured by interest from the very first line and never released it. The book is well written and flows beautifully introducing new characters and delivering new plot developments at exactly the right moments. Once I jumped in , I couldn’t put it down and I must admit that I was sad when it ended.
The character of Delilah is so multi-dimensional (in fact more multi-dimensional than one even realizes), that one can not help feeling for her from the very beginning. We are sucked into her world which at first appears to be a classic tale of a small town girl returning home to face her demons and then slowly one comes to realize that all in Green Lake is not what it seems. All of the secondary characters are equally charming in their own mysterious and puzzling ways…especially Winnie who one can not help but love.
The human and the supernatural meld seamlessly in this novel with elements of romance, mystery, and a healthy dose of Jennifer’s wonderful wit. She explores issues of family, trust, loss, and the real meaning of “undying” love and ultimately what it means to be alive, dead, or Otherwise.
I recommend this book to anyone who seeks a paranormal lens through which to examine some very human issues.
The character of Delilah is so multi-dimensional (in fact more multi-dimensional than one even realizes), that one can not help feeling for her from the very beginning. We are sucked into her world which at first appears to be a classic tale of a small town girl returning home to face her demons and then slowly one comes to realize that all in Green Lake is not what it seems. All of the secondary characters are equally charming in their own mysterious and puzzling ways…especially Winnie who one can not help but love.
The human and the supernatural meld seamlessly in this novel with elements of romance, mystery, and a healthy dose of Jennifer’s wonderful wit. She explores issues of family, trust, loss, and the real meaning of “undying” love and ultimately what it means to be alive, dead, or Otherwise.
I recommend this book to anyone who seeks a paranormal lens through which to examine some very human issues.
February 12, 2012
You can be alive, you can be dead, or you can be otherwise. Some of the residents of Green Lake are more aware of this phenomenon than others. Delilah isn't quite sure what's going on. I loved that the reader kind of gets to figure out what's going on as Delilah, the main character, does. There's so many twists and turns in this book is that it definitely keeps the reader on their toes. I love not being able to figure out what comes next in a book.
It took a bit to get into the meat of the story but once you're in, you're sucked in. You can tell that there's something a little bit off about Green Lake from the beginning. The citizens of the town seem to be hiding things. I really liked Delilah's character. She's trying to sort of rebuild her life in Green Lake in the house where she grew up with her grandmother whose house still bears her... uh... touch. Delilah struggles with whether or not she can make a home there with so many memories surrounding her. It was interesting to follow her to see how she deals with the burgeoning mystery around her.
This is a great book for those that like a little mystery thrown in with their paranormal!
It took a bit to get into the meat of the story but once you're in, you're sucked in. You can tell that there's something a little bit off about Green Lake from the beginning. The citizens of the town seem to be hiding things. I really liked Delilah's character. She's trying to sort of rebuild her life in Green Lake in the house where she grew up with her grandmother whose house still bears her... uh... touch. Delilah struggles with whether or not she can make a home there with so many memories surrounding her. It was interesting to follow her to see how she deals with the burgeoning mystery around her.
This is a great book for those that like a little mystery thrown in with their paranormal!
January 31, 2012
Otherwise is a fantastic blend of mystery, suspense and the paranormal, all rolled up into one amazing tale. White takes readers on an adventure into Delilah Gray’s life and death, unfolding the mysteries behind the ghostly hauntings throughout the novel. Gray’s story is one that immediately grabs you, pulling you into her world and keeping you enthralled in the odd characters she meets along her journey. The characters are well developed, with personalities that are truly unforgettable. Each of the characters put a unique spin on the plot, driving you to flip the pages even faster. The paranormal aspect of Otherwise isn’t defined clearly in the beginning, but White gives you the perfect amount of a hauntingly good time as you anxiously wait for the mysteries to unfold.
Overall, White’s Otherwise is an exciting paranormal read that keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting more of the unusually captivating characters that grace the pages. The only thing wrong with Otherwise is that it ended.
Overall, White’s Otherwise is an exciting paranormal read that keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting more of the unusually captivating characters that grace the pages. The only thing wrong with Otherwise is that it ended.
February 27, 2012
Otherwise was, I assure you, a fantastic read. Not only the whole concept was very refreshing but also the characters were full of personality and color.
Jennifer did an amazing job portraying a whole town where the main character, Delilah, and the reader itself, discover together that Green Lake hides a lot of secrets... some of them very disturbing.
First we have Delilah's Meema, a woman who had a compulsion for collecting items: boxes, newspapers, clothes, empty cans, rotten food... you name it she had it. That's why Delilah took off as soon as she turned 17 and never looked back. At least until now. Once her Meema dies everything changes and she now has to go back, clean the house and fight her old fears.
But she soon will discover that in Green Lake there are two kinds of people: the real ones and the "otherwise". And here is when Delilah's struggles begin: not only is difficult to recognize who is who but also there are murderers that she has to solve.
Personal opinion:
As I said before Jennifer has done a great job creating the characters. Beginning whit Delilah who begins as a woman afraid of being alone, afraid of love and afraid of silly little things that make her life very difficult. At the same time she is stubborn and somehow manages to jump to conclusions very fast (and most of the time she is so so wrong...). But the good thing is she wants to heal her mind, wants to improve her life and she is ready to try, ready to take the risks.
The fact that we, readers, discover some things before Delilah does is also interesting. I usually found myself trying to tell her what she didn't know to help her solve the mysteries. It was awesome.
If you are looking for a book where you never know what will happen next, where the twists are so many you will be passing page after page, where the ending will rock your world then pick up this book, take a seat and begin reading.
You won't be disappointed and you will want to read more of Jennifer's work. Trust me.
Jennifer did an amazing job portraying a whole town where the main character, Delilah, and the reader itself, discover together that Green Lake hides a lot of secrets... some of them very disturbing.
First we have Delilah's Meema, a woman who had a compulsion for collecting items: boxes, newspapers, clothes, empty cans, rotten food... you name it she had it. That's why Delilah took off as soon as she turned 17 and never looked back. At least until now. Once her Meema dies everything changes and she now has to go back, clean the house and fight her old fears.
But she soon will discover that in Green Lake there are two kinds of people: the real ones and the "otherwise". And here is when Delilah's struggles begin: not only is difficult to recognize who is who but also there are murderers that she has to solve.
Personal opinion:
As I said before Jennifer has done a great job creating the characters. Beginning whit Delilah who begins as a woman afraid of being alone, afraid of love and afraid of silly little things that make her life very difficult. At the same time she is stubborn and somehow manages to jump to conclusions very fast (and most of the time she is so so wrong...). But the good thing is she wants to heal her mind, wants to improve her life and she is ready to try, ready to take the risks.
The fact that we, readers, discover some things before Delilah does is also interesting. I usually found myself trying to tell her what she didn't know to help her solve the mysteries. It was awesome.
If you are looking for a book where you never know what will happen next, where the twists are so many you will be passing page after page, where the ending will rock your world then pick up this book, take a seat and begin reading.
You won't be disappointed and you will want to read more of Jennifer's work. Trust me.
May 26, 2012
My Rating 4.5 Stars
This is a captivating book that utterly caught and maintained my undivided attention throughout. I loved the gothic undertones and suspenseful way in which the story unfolded. I have never read a story before that is even remotely like this one – fresh subject matter that is presented within the framework of a technically superior, spellbinding read. Each character within the book is fully realized with motivations and personalities that I could easily understand and relate to, even when those traits were wholly out of the realm of any of my own personal experiences. I was fascinated and repelled by the hoarder, for example.
Delilah is a complex individual who seems confounded by the situation in which she finds herself. She has suffered heart-breaking loss, is alone, and sometimes seems to be totally invisible. In spite of her general clueless nature, she is likable and sympathetic, and I was 100% “for her” as she struggles to come to terms with her situation and unravel the mystery that seems to have such a stranglehold on her. The friends she meets often seem to be at cross-purposes to each other, but they all play an indelible role in her journey of discovery; they provide support and incentive she so desperately craves.
This is a book in which the division between life and death seems as thin as a strand of hair, as confusing as a muddled memory, and as transparent as a pane of glass. The complexity of the spiritual realm, existing right along side the physical plane, is handled with astute perception, and goes far in explaining what makes this story both inspiring and unforgettable.
Reviewed by Laurie-J for Night Owl Reviews
This is a captivating book that utterly caught and maintained my undivided attention throughout. I loved the gothic undertones and suspenseful way in which the story unfolded. I have never read a story before that is even remotely like this one – fresh subject matter that is presented within the framework of a technically superior, spellbinding read. Each character within the book is fully realized with motivations and personalities that I could easily understand and relate to, even when those traits were wholly out of the realm of any of my own personal experiences. I was fascinated and repelled by the hoarder, for example.
Delilah is a complex individual who seems confounded by the situation in which she finds herself. She has suffered heart-breaking loss, is alone, and sometimes seems to be totally invisible. In spite of her general clueless nature, she is likable and sympathetic, and I was 100% “for her” as she struggles to come to terms with her situation and unravel the mystery that seems to have such a stranglehold on her. The friends she meets often seem to be at cross-purposes to each other, but they all play an indelible role in her journey of discovery; they provide support and incentive she so desperately craves.
This is a book in which the division between life and death seems as thin as a strand of hair, as confusing as a muddled memory, and as transparent as a pane of glass. The complexity of the spiritual realm, existing right along side the physical plane, is handled with astute perception, and goes far in explaining what makes this story both inspiring and unforgettable.
Reviewed by Laurie-J for Night Owl Reviews
March 15, 2012
Delilah Gray is standing in the pouring rain on Hermit Meddler’s Way in the town of Green Lake in front of the dilapidated cottage where she grew up with her Grandmother ‘Meema’ having no idea how she got there. Her Grandmother, Aurora Meddlar, a compulsive hoarder, is now deceased and Delilah’s memories of her life in the garbage infested cottage come rushing back. She has resolved to clear out all the wreckage and make the cottage livable. This decision will lead her down a road filled with anxiety, disappointment, awareness and ultimate gratification.
From the first page I was pulled into this book and did not come up for air until the final page. I found this book to be captivating and extremely well written. The main character Delilah is extremely complex, fragile and vulnerable which left me feeling a sense of compassion and fondness for her. The supporting characters are intricate and painted with such clarity they blend into the storyline effortlessly.
This story is flawlessly written as it moves forward incorporating the human world with the supernatural. The perception of extreme hoarding so vividly described by the author were complex and thought-provoking showing the effects of this disease from all perspectives. The emotions of love, loss, grief, mystery and friendship are woven together beautifully as this story transports you through Delilah’s journey.
This book is a departure from the genre of books I usually read which is the reason it both surprised and delighted me. I highly recommend this book, it delves into the fragility of human emotions and portrays a supernatural element that will hold you captive.
From the first page I was pulled into this book and did not come up for air until the final page. I found this book to be captivating and extremely well written. The main character Delilah is extremely complex, fragile and vulnerable which left me feeling a sense of compassion and fondness for her. The supporting characters are intricate and painted with such clarity they blend into the storyline effortlessly.
This story is flawlessly written as it moves forward incorporating the human world with the supernatural. The perception of extreme hoarding so vividly described by the author were complex and thought-provoking showing the effects of this disease from all perspectives. The emotions of love, loss, grief, mystery and friendship are woven together beautifully as this story transports you through Delilah’s journey.
This book is a departure from the genre of books I usually read which is the reason it both surprised and delighted me. I highly recommend this book, it delves into the fragility of human emotions and portrays a supernatural element that will hold you captive.
February 19, 2012
Otherwise is such an intriguing story. The subject matter of spirits, reincarnation and the afterlife has always been a favorite of mine, and author Jennifer B. White did a wonderful job at keeping me both entertained and enthralled in the story.
I loved the mystery behind it, figuring out why certain spirits had decided to become Otherwise, existing in neither the human or spirit world. I also liked the idea of The Sender, The Keeper, and the Gravedigger for Lost Souls, the specified people or spirits that are there to support the recently dead.
Though I did enjoy this book, there were some elements that took away from the story such as weak dialogue, choppy transitions, and last minutes tie-ins to the story. What makes up for those weaker points is the subject matter, plot elements, and how White superbly crafts those components into an enjoyable read.
I loved the mystery behind it, figuring out why certain spirits had decided to become Otherwise, existing in neither the human or spirit world. I also liked the idea of The Sender, The Keeper, and the Gravedigger for Lost Souls, the specified people or spirits that are there to support the recently dead.
Though I did enjoy this book, there were some elements that took away from the story such as weak dialogue, choppy transitions, and last minutes tie-ins to the story. What makes up for those weaker points is the subject matter, plot elements, and how White superbly crafts those components into an enjoyable read.
March 14, 2015
Otherwise is a very intriguing novel! After reading the synopsis I knew it was a plot that I needed to discover more about, but that the same time I was nervous. Suspense, spirits, and ghosts aren't usually something I tend to read about because I get spooked too easily so I shy away. But I wanted to know why it was that Delilah a young woman had come back to her grandmothers home after several years to a somewhat desolate and quite town. There had to be a reason other and I needed to know :-)
The author, Jennifer White, does a fantastic job with describing the setting and mood of this town. When I read Otherwise, I not only felt like I was in the position to be the main character, Delilah but I was also felt as though I was being surrounded by the spirits from the past that were effecting her lifestyle as well. The feelings and the experiences were all there, and I loved that!
The emotions that I felt throughout this book varied as the plot unraveled... there was never one emotion that I felt for an extended period of time. But my emotions reflected the character's for the most part- which I believe goes to saying how well Jennifer writes with visual and descriptive detail to give her readers a full sense of the setting and character!
One thing that I noticed that I'd say separates Otherwise from many books that are out there today is that it fit perfectly together like a puzzle; we gradually see the story come full circle. There were drastic plot changes that left me constantly on my toes, wondering why? how? what what going to happen? But I can also see that some people could read Otherwise and think that these sections of the book are "plot holes"-- that isn't the case-- the story comes together so so beautifully, and yes bits and pieces are even shocking! You just need a little patience ;-) I loved that with Otherwise there was a constant energy flow throughout the entire book and even though we may not have know every little detail (yet!), that was the whole fun in reading!
I really enjoyed reading Otherwise! If you are looking for a good dose of supernatural, mysterious read with wonderful upbeat and spunky characters like Delilah and Shane, I believe this is your book!
The author, Jennifer White, does a fantastic job with describing the setting and mood of this town. When I read Otherwise, I not only felt like I was in the position to be the main character, Delilah but I was also felt as though I was being surrounded by the spirits from the past that were effecting her lifestyle as well. The feelings and the experiences were all there, and I loved that!
The emotions that I felt throughout this book varied as the plot unraveled... there was never one emotion that I felt for an extended period of time. But my emotions reflected the character's for the most part- which I believe goes to saying how well Jennifer writes with visual and descriptive detail to give her readers a full sense of the setting and character!
One thing that I noticed that I'd say separates Otherwise from many books that are out there today is that it fit perfectly together like a puzzle; we gradually see the story come full circle. There were drastic plot changes that left me constantly on my toes, wondering why? how? what what going to happen? But I can also see that some people could read Otherwise and think that these sections of the book are "plot holes"-- that isn't the case-- the story comes together so so beautifully, and yes bits and pieces are even shocking! You just need a little patience ;-) I loved that with Otherwise there was a constant energy flow throughout the entire book and even though we may not have know every little detail (yet!), that was the whole fun in reading!
I really enjoyed reading Otherwise! If you are looking for a good dose of supernatural, mysterious read with wonderful upbeat and spunky characters like Delilah and Shane, I believe this is your book!
March 23, 2012
Otherwise is very much like a Shakespearean love story. Full of suffering, drama, tragedy, romance and ghost. It was very mysterious and intriguing read which had me guessing at every turn.
Delilah Gray finds herself back home after being gone for years during a bad storm on Hermit Meddler's Way confused, mad, and wet. She never wanted to come back home after growing up with an embarrassment of a grandmother who was a hoarder and suffered from agoraphobia. Delilah has no where else to go so she figures after paying the taxes on the property for year she will clean it up and call it her own. This plan turns out to be much, much harder than she intended it to be. Especially when her grandmother Meema's ghost is haunting the place. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many things going on around that house and with the people she meets that she doesn't know what is what or who is who. And she especially doesn't know why she feels so connected to her new friends Shane and Casimir. There is something about them that she can't put her finger on.
This story is Delilah's twisty and windy journey to find out the truth about who she is, reconnect with a long lost love, and mend relationships that where destroyed buy malevolent act so long ago. I think Jennifer does a really good job with explaining to the readers how all the people and places are all connected without it being too overwhelming. It was really fun to get some of the clues and put them together and then be shocked to find out what exactly had happen. This was a engrossing and enjoyable book which took me into a world of ghost, Otherwise, Keepers, Gravediggers, Senders and Aeridyx. It was a whole new would for me and I truly enjoyed it!
Delilah Gray finds herself back home after being gone for years during a bad storm on Hermit Meddler's Way confused, mad, and wet. She never wanted to come back home after growing up with an embarrassment of a grandmother who was a hoarder and suffered from agoraphobia. Delilah has no where else to go so she figures after paying the taxes on the property for year she will clean it up and call it her own. This plan turns out to be much, much harder than she intended it to be. Especially when her grandmother Meema's ghost is haunting the place. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many things going on around that house and with the people she meets that she doesn't know what is what or who is who. And she especially doesn't know why she feels so connected to her new friends Shane and Casimir. There is something about them that she can't put her finger on.
This story is Delilah's twisty and windy journey to find out the truth about who she is, reconnect with a long lost love, and mend relationships that where destroyed buy malevolent act so long ago. I think Jennifer does a really good job with explaining to the readers how all the people and places are all connected without it being too overwhelming. It was really fun to get some of the clues and put them together and then be shocked to find out what exactly had happen. This was a engrossing and enjoyable book which took me into a world of ghost, Otherwise, Keepers, Gravediggers, Senders and Aeridyx. It was a whole new would for me and I truly enjoyed it!
April 18, 2012
Have you ever read a book that with the turn of each subsequent page, you knew exactly what was going to happen next? Well, Otherwise is not one of those books.
Delilah Gray has led a very tragic life. Abandoned by her mother and raised by her hoarding grandmother, she yearned for the days when she could be free. Tragedy continues to follow her into her new life with an unhappy marriage and the death of her only child. She finds herself back in the town of Green Lake once again.
Her grandmother left her the house that was once a source of pain for her growing up. She somehow feels that cleaning out the house will help her wounds. Only every time she does, the hoard appears all over again.
She meets a handsome gravedigger named Shane, who mysteriously has to leave at the same time every day. She feels strangely connected to him. Can this be all her imagination?
Add in the strange cast of characters that comprise the town of Green Lake. Each with secrets of their own and you get an incredible tale of lost souls that question if it is possible that you can choose not to die.
I loved that Otherwise kept me guessing right to the very end. Just when you think that you had the mystery solved, you were thrown another wicked curve-ball. It’s a brilliant combination of a ghost story, a murder mystery and a tender tale of young love. There is dead and then there is Otherwise. What’s not to devour?
On Open Book Society -
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ot...
Delilah Gray has led a very tragic life. Abandoned by her mother and raised by her hoarding grandmother, she yearned for the days when she could be free. Tragedy continues to follow her into her new life with an unhappy marriage and the death of her only child. She finds herself back in the town of Green Lake once again.
Her grandmother left her the house that was once a source of pain for her growing up. She somehow feels that cleaning out the house will help her wounds. Only every time she does, the hoard appears all over again.
She meets a handsome gravedigger named Shane, who mysteriously has to leave at the same time every day. She feels strangely connected to him. Can this be all her imagination?
Add in the strange cast of characters that comprise the town of Green Lake. Each with secrets of their own and you get an incredible tale of lost souls that question if it is possible that you can choose not to die.
I loved that Otherwise kept me guessing right to the very end. Just when you think that you had the mystery solved, you were thrown another wicked curve-ball. It’s a brilliant combination of a ghost story, a murder mystery and a tender tale of young love. There is dead and then there is Otherwise. What’s not to devour?
On Open Book Society -
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ot...
April 21, 2012
Review by OBS Staff Member Autumn
Beware of spoilers
Have you ever read a book that with the turn of each subsequent page, you knew exactly what was going to happen next? Well, Otherwise is not one of those books.
Delilah Gray has led a very tragic life. Abandoned by her mother and raised by her hoarding grandmother, she yearned for the days when she could be free. Tragedy continues to follow her into her new life with an unhappy marriage and the death of her only child. She finds herself back in the town of Green Lake once again.
Her grandmother left her the house that was once a source of pain for her growing up. She somehow feels that cleaning out the house will help her wounds. Only every time she does, the hoard appears all over again.
She meets a handsome gravedigger named Shane, who mysteriously has to leave at the same time every day. She feels strangely connected to him. Can this be all her imagination?
Add in the strange cast of characters that comprise the town of Green Lake. Each with secrets of their own and you get an incredible tale of lost souls that question if it is possible that you can choose not to die.
I loved that Otherwise kept me guessing right to the very end. Just when you think that you had the mystery solved, you were thrown another wicked curve-ball. It’s a brilliant combination of a ghost story, a murder mystery and a tender tale of young love. There is dead and then there is Otherwise. What’s not to devour?
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ot...
Beware of spoilers
Have you ever read a book that with the turn of each subsequent page, you knew exactly what was going to happen next? Well, Otherwise is not one of those books.
Delilah Gray has led a very tragic life. Abandoned by her mother and raised by her hoarding grandmother, she yearned for the days when she could be free. Tragedy continues to follow her into her new life with an unhappy marriage and the death of her only child. She finds herself back in the town of Green Lake once again.
Her grandmother left her the house that was once a source of pain for her growing up. She somehow feels that cleaning out the house will help her wounds. Only every time she does, the hoard appears all over again.
She meets a handsome gravedigger named Shane, who mysteriously has to leave at the same time every day. She feels strangely connected to him. Can this be all her imagination?
Add in the strange cast of characters that comprise the town of Green Lake. Each with secrets of their own and you get an incredible tale of lost souls that question if it is possible that you can choose not to die.
I loved that Otherwise kept me guessing right to the very end. Just when you think that you had the mystery solved, you were thrown another wicked curve-ball. It’s a brilliant combination of a ghost story, a murder mystery and a tender tale of young love. There is dead and then there is Otherwise. What’s not to devour?
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ot...
June 22, 2012
After a devastating loss, Delilah Gray is returning to her childhood home. If you can really it a home. Her grandmother, Meema, has passed away and has left Delilah with a huge burden. Meema was a hoarder, and now Delilah is left with the mess. But there is more than just garbage in Meema's little cottage. When we meet Delilah, she just magically appeared in the town of Green Lake. How did she get there? Is she really there?
But I have to be honest, the hoarding angle is what drew me into Otherwise by Jennifer B. White. I don't get hoarding from that cover. I'm thinking Twilight when I look at that cover. But fortunately this story isn't about vampires.
Cleaning out Meema's house is no easy task. Or is it? Cleaning supplies show up in the house out of nowhere. Who put them there? The house is eventually cleaned one day, but then days later it's trashed again. What is going on? How is that even possible? There has to be a force greater than man at work here. A clean home doesn't become hoarded over night. ...
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.asiturnthepages.blogspot.c...
But I have to be honest, the hoarding angle is what drew me into Otherwise by Jennifer B. White. I don't get hoarding from that cover. I'm thinking Twilight when I look at that cover. But fortunately this story isn't about vampires.
Cleaning out Meema's house is no easy task. Or is it? Cleaning supplies show up in the house out of nowhere. Who put them there? The house is eventually cleaned one day, but then days later it's trashed again. What is going on? How is that even possible? There has to be a force greater than man at work here. A clean home doesn't become hoarded over night. ...
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.asiturnthepages.blogspot.c...
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