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Betwixt #0.5
Before
Dale Finnigan is a teenage rebel; he lives for parties, girls and joy riding in stolen cars. In spite of his uptight parents' constant warnings and lectures, he continues to run wild. His crazy lifestyle is the only way he can live and feel free… Until his reckless behavior takes him down a path where there is no going back.
In this prequel to BETWIXT, find out who Dale Finnigan was before he became known as“scar-face”—the unassuming hero everyone underestimates.
WARNING: This book is intended for mature teens due to coarse language and mature content.
In this prequel to BETWIXT, find out who Dale Finnigan was before he became known as“scar-face”—the unassuming hero everyone underestimates.
WARNING: This book is intended for mature teens due to coarse language and mature content.
89 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2013
15 people are currently reading
525 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Pearl
71 books854 followersMelissa Pearl was born in Auckland, New Zealand, but has spent much of her life abroad, living in countries such as Jordan, Cyprus and Pakistan... not to mention a nine month road trip around North America with her husband. "Best. Year. Ever!!" She is a trained elementary teacher, but writing is her passion. Since becoming a full time mother she has had the opportunity to pursue this dream and her debut novel hit the internet in November 2011. Since then she has continued to produce a steady stream of books, ranging in genres from Fantasy to Romantic Suspense to Contemporary Romance. She loves the variety.
"I am passionate about writing. It stirs a fire in my soul that I never knew I had. I want to be the best writer I can possibly be and transport my readers into another world where they can laugh, cry and fall in love."
Melissa Pearl is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download their Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
"I am passionate about writing. It stirs a fire in my soul that I never knew I had. I want to be the best writer I can possibly be and transport my readers into another world where they can laugh, cry and fall in love."
Melissa Pearl is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download their Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 10, 2013
I thought this was a great novella to go along with Betwixt. Everyone who read the first novel will definitely like getting to know the young, rebelling Dale Finnigan.
In my opinion, Betwixt was better than Before. That said, Before was still a compelling read. Reading from Dale’s perspective might have given me a headache (boy does he make a lot of mistakes!) but his voice was super realistic.
This book made Dale seem so much more real and awesome! I am tempted to compare past Dale to the Dale we know and love in Betwixt. There is so much growth!
Overall, I feel much more connection to Dale, now that I know his past!
In my opinion, Betwixt was better than Before. That said, Before was still a compelling read. Reading from Dale’s perspective might have given me a headache (boy does he make a lot of mistakes!) but his voice was super realistic.
This book made Dale seem so much more real and awesome! I am tempted to compare past Dale to the Dale we know and love in Betwixt. There is so much growth!
Overall, I feel much more connection to Dale, now that I know his past!
September 12, 2013
I received a copy of this book for a fair review.
This is a companion story to Betwixt , which I have never read before . However, I loved this story so much that I purchased it before I was even finished with "before" .
I really didn't expect for this story to be quite so moving but as Dale told his story you could help but get caught up in emotion over the strain in relationship with his family and the struggle with the guilt he had over it. There really is layer upon layer to what makes Dale the person he is and why he makes the decision he does no matter how poor they are , I was surprised to get to know his character as
well as I did in a short novella.
I also truly enjoyed how he accepted the life that he earned and was moved to help someone he thinks is going down a similar road and in need of help.
I can not wait to start Betwixt so I can see how the rest of his story unfolds .
This is a companion story to Betwixt , which I have never read before . However, I loved this story so much that I purchased it before I was even finished with "before" .
I really didn't expect for this story to be quite so moving but as Dale told his story you could help but get caught up in emotion over the strain in relationship with his family and the struggle with the guilt he had over it. There really is layer upon layer to what makes Dale the person he is and why he makes the decision he does no matter how poor they are , I was surprised to get to know his character as
well as I did in a short novella.
I also truly enjoyed how he accepted the life that he earned and was moved to help someone he thinks is going down a similar road and in need of help.
I can not wait to start Betwixt so I can see how the rest of his story unfolds .
September 25, 2013
I literally stayed up late on a weeknight to finish this book because I just could not imagine falling asleep without finding out what happened to Dale. Melissa Pearl is amazing at making me feel exactly how and what her characters are feeling and this book did not disappoint in the least. She had me feeling exactly how Dale felt and it helped me understand him better than I ever have before. Being able to see how Dale got to the point he's at in Betwixt makes his story that much more fulfilling. Before makes me want to read Betwixt again....which I will be doing this weekend. Melissa Pearl is one of my favorite authors. To me, the best thing about her books is that she continues to give you more and more to think about. Thank you Melissa!!! Awesome book!!!
September 22, 2013
Before by Melissa Pearl is a novella in the Betwixt Series. It is an awesome book that had my attention from the very beginning.
Dale Finnigan is a rebellious 15 year old young man who still lives with his parents. His parents have these rules that they expect him to follow. The rules are there to protect him from ruining his life. Dale doesn’t like it at all so he decides that he is going to do whatever he wants to do no matter what his parents say.
Dale’s rebellious journey has begun. His parents are trying so hard to keep him from doing bad things that will get him into trouble but no matter what they do or say it doesn’t help. He is out of control and going down a dangerous path. He is sneaking out, drinking, smoking, partying and hanging out with wrong friends who are influencing him to do bad things. One evening he gets caught doing something illegal and has to pay for the consequences of his actions. You figured that he would have learned from what he did but he didn’t. Something really bad happens that changes everything in Dale’s life. Will he be able to change his life around and get back on the right path?
Through out the book I can feel the emotions of what Dale was feeling towards his parents and his life.
Melissa Pearl has done an amazing job. In this book she explains the real life experience of a rebellious teenager. I haven’t read Betwixt, the first book in the series yet so I am really looking forward to going back and reading it. This is a must read so I definitely recommend my friends to check this awesome book out.
Dale Finnigan is a rebellious 15 year old young man who still lives with his parents. His parents have these rules that they expect him to follow. The rules are there to protect him from ruining his life. Dale doesn’t like it at all so he decides that he is going to do whatever he wants to do no matter what his parents say.
Dale’s rebellious journey has begun. His parents are trying so hard to keep him from doing bad things that will get him into trouble but no matter what they do or say it doesn’t help. He is out of control and going down a dangerous path. He is sneaking out, drinking, smoking, partying and hanging out with wrong friends who are influencing him to do bad things. One evening he gets caught doing something illegal and has to pay for the consequences of his actions. You figured that he would have learned from what he did but he didn’t. Something really bad happens that changes everything in Dale’s life. Will he be able to change his life around and get back on the right path?
Through out the book I can feel the emotions of what Dale was feeling towards his parents and his life.
Melissa Pearl has done an amazing job. In this book she explains the real life experience of a rebellious teenager. I haven’t read Betwixt, the first book in the series yet so I am really looking forward to going back and reading it. This is a must read so I definitely recommend my friends to check this awesome book out.
September 21, 2013
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"Before" is an aptly-titled prequel to "Betwixt", and here we get to learn more about Dale and what happened in his life prior to the events of "Betwixt." I must say, when I initially read "Betwixt," I found myself wanting to know more about Dale's history and how he got to be the way he was: moody, stand-offish, an outcast from the school, etc. Thankfully, Melissa read my mind and gave us this prequel!
Dale is the second child of a loving couple who only want what's best for him, but he sees it as a bunch of rules to keep him down, all based around what his dad's congregation would think if the preacher's son went off the rails. Funny thing, that's exactly what all the rules make him do, and he just gets wilder and more reckless the more they try to tie him down. He's tired of being compared to his older sister, the model of normalcy and obedience, and he's determined to make his own decisions, no matter the consequences. His friends (if you can call them that) encourage this behavior in him, and it isn't long before things spiral out of control.
If you enjoyed "Betwixt" or have a desire to read it but haven't gotten around to it yet, I would definitely recommend you read this one. Dale's story is really interesting, and it helps set up his involvement in "Betwixt" and also explains more about why he chooses to play the part he does in that story. Well done!!
5 stars =)
"Before" is an aptly-titled prequel to "Betwixt", and here we get to learn more about Dale and what happened in his life prior to the events of "Betwixt." I must say, when I initially read "Betwixt," I found myself wanting to know more about Dale's history and how he got to be the way he was: moody, stand-offish, an outcast from the school, etc. Thankfully, Melissa read my mind and gave us this prequel!
Dale is the second child of a loving couple who only want what's best for him, but he sees it as a bunch of rules to keep him down, all based around what his dad's congregation would think if the preacher's son went off the rails. Funny thing, that's exactly what all the rules make him do, and he just gets wilder and more reckless the more they try to tie him down. He's tired of being compared to his older sister, the model of normalcy and obedience, and he's determined to make his own decisions, no matter the consequences. His friends (if you can call them that) encourage this behavior in him, and it isn't long before things spiral out of control.
If you enjoyed "Betwixt" or have a desire to read it but haven't gotten around to it yet, I would definitely recommend you read this one. Dale's story is really interesting, and it helps set up his involvement in "Betwixt" and also explains more about why he chooses to play the part he does in that story. Well done!!
5 stars =)
September 21, 2013
Awesome novella that gives us the inside scoop and past circumstances of Dale Finnigan, a key character in the novel ‘Betwixt’. This tells us how he got the scar on his face, what he was like before everything changed him to the person he was in ‘Betwixt’. I really loved getting this insight. Dale’s just a good guy who gets ensnared into the wrong crowd, bad habits, bad thinking and in the end, really bad luck.
Dale’s transformation from rebellious teen to all out criminal made this an intense read. This story has some mature themes and sex scenes, but they were done well and tasteful. We do get to see some flashes of Nicole, the main character from ‘Betwixt’ and discover Dale’s feelings for her.
I enjoyed Dale’s interactions with his friends. They seemed like real pals, even though they could be considered toxic. What happens to all of them really broke my heart and I hope Dale gets past all of it.
Great short novella to add to the charm of the Betwixt series. Ms. Pearl’s writing is engaging, magical and takes you on an exhilarating journey easily and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I received a beta copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dale’s transformation from rebellious teen to all out criminal made this an intense read. This story has some mature themes and sex scenes, but they were done well and tasteful. We do get to see some flashes of Nicole, the main character from ‘Betwixt’ and discover Dale’s feelings for her.
I enjoyed Dale’s interactions with his friends. They seemed like real pals, even though they could be considered toxic. What happens to all of them really broke my heart and I hope Dale gets past all of it.
Great short novella to add to the charm of the Betwixt series. Ms. Pearl’s writing is engaging, magical and takes you on an exhilarating journey easily and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I received a beta copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2013
Before is a novella and the prequel to Betwixt. I have not read Betwixt, but if it is anything like Before then I am expecting a 5 star read! This novella is short but gives you a very detailed background of one of the main characters in Betwixt. It is so much easier to understand the actions of a character if you know how they got there. I am not sure if it was me being a parent or just such a captivating read that has me so excited to continue this series!
Before takes us into Dale's life and how he ended up where he is. Dale parties and drinks heavily which leads to some very BAD choices that he knows are wrong but is so lost in life. Until one night it all goes so so wrong, which leads to where Betwixt begins.
It is hard to right a review for a novella without telling you the whole story, but this is a book that I DEFINITELY recommend and a series I can't wait to explore and share!
We do get a glimpse into Betwixt at the end of Before, and it definitely meets my expectations so far. I also just got my copy and will share that review with you also ;)
Rating: 5 stars
*** I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review ***
Before takes us into Dale's life and how he ended up where he is. Dale parties and drinks heavily which leads to some very BAD choices that he knows are wrong but is so lost in life. Until one night it all goes so so wrong, which leads to where Betwixt begins.
It is hard to right a review for a novella without telling you the whole story, but this is a book that I DEFINITELY recommend and a series I can't wait to explore and share!
We do get a glimpse into Betwixt at the end of Before, and it definitely meets my expectations so far. I also just got my copy and will share that review with you also ;)
Rating: 5 stars
*** I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review ***
November 22, 2013
Before, is a story of rebellion, a teenage boy desperately trying to find his place in the world, in his school, even in his own family. The trials and tribulations of teenage angst are brought to life by the author’s easy and very real characterizations.
This is why I love Melissa Pearl.
Not only can she write a captivating story, but she makes me believe.
Whether it’s time travel (The Time Spirits Trilogy), a half dead teenage girl having an out-of-body experience (Betwixt), a fantastical world full of magical beings and otherworldly powers (The Elements Trilogy) or as with this book, the troubled world of a teenage boy; Melissa Pearl knows how to spin a tale that enraptures your very soul. And when it’s all over, when that final page has been turned, I’m not ready to say goodbye. The story, the characters, they live with me just a little while longer; destroying my hopes of reading another book because I’m still living in this one.
Before goes immediately to my keeper shelf, another amazing 5 star read.
This is why I love Melissa Pearl.
Not only can she write a captivating story, but she makes me believe.
Whether it’s time travel (The Time Spirits Trilogy), a half dead teenage girl having an out-of-body experience (Betwixt), a fantastical world full of magical beings and otherworldly powers (The Elements Trilogy) or as with this book, the troubled world of a teenage boy; Melissa Pearl knows how to spin a tale that enraptures your very soul. And when it’s all over, when that final page has been turned, I’m not ready to say goodbye. The story, the characters, they live with me just a little while longer; destroying my hopes of reading another book because I’m still living in this one.
Before goes immediately to my keeper shelf, another amazing 5 star read.
September 18, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for a fair review. I have not read Betwixt yet but after reading Before I will be buying it to read to know what happens.
We meet Dale who has a big role in Betwixt but the author couldn't find a way to do him justice in the original story and I'm thankful for that.
Dale is a 15 year old who is heading down a dangerous path that he realizes but thats to family and such he just keeps going until there is no way to turn back until it's too late and he gets a second chance.
Drinking, sneaking out, smoking, sex, stealing cars, anything that would be a "thrill" for a 15 year old especially one who keeps being compared to his older sister who was "perfect" is what Dale is doing. His parents keep trying to get him to turn around, but the one thing parent's forget is that kids sometimes push harder when the rules come down harder.
I really enjoyed reading this story and how Dale go to the point he is now and will be in Betwixt. I recommend picking this book up.
We meet Dale who has a big role in Betwixt but the author couldn't find a way to do him justice in the original story and I'm thankful for that.
Dale is a 15 year old who is heading down a dangerous path that he realizes but thats to family and such he just keeps going until there is no way to turn back until it's too late and he gets a second chance.
Drinking, sneaking out, smoking, sex, stealing cars, anything that would be a "thrill" for a 15 year old especially one who keeps being compared to his older sister who was "perfect" is what Dale is doing. His parents keep trying to get him to turn around, but the one thing parent's forget is that kids sometimes push harder when the rules come down harder.
I really enjoyed reading this story and how Dale go to the point he is now and will be in Betwixt. I recommend picking this book up.
August 30, 2013
This is an awesome prequel to the novel 'Betwixt', in which we get to see the world through the eyes of Dale.
Melissa Pearl is a skilled author and writes with what I feel is a really authentic teen voice, so much so that I found it easy to empathize with Dale, even when he was making decisions that I wouldn't. If you're read Betwixt, then you'll definitely want to read Before. And if you haven't, then this is an awesome place to start ;-)
Melissa Pearl is a skilled author and writes with what I feel is a really authentic teen voice, so much so that I found it easy to empathize with Dale, even when he was making decisions that I wouldn't. If you're read Betwixt, then you'll definitely want to read Before. And if you haven't, then this is an awesome place to start ;-)
September 17, 2013
Loved this glimpse into Dale's life before Betwixt! So many authors give us books that are next in the series -- chronological, all nice and tidy. Melissa Pearl goes the other direction with Before, taking us back in time so we can see how the choices Dale makes shapes him into the person he is in Betwixt. A really great read!
September 17, 2013
This was my first book from this author and I received an ARC for a fair review. I have to say that I love her style of writing, the characters are so realistic that I felt like I was right there with them and watching the book play out before me! I will definitely be reading more of her books! :)
February 27, 2018
Un antes de todo y el relato corto cumple en relatar cómo Dale llegó hacer lo que es en Betwitx.
Bueno y un tanto triste, a igual del libro principal. Nos muestra el valor de tener una segunda oportunidad y aprovecharla.
Bueno y un tanto triste, a igual del libro principal. Nos muestra el valor de tener una segunda oportunidad y aprovecharla.
December 13, 2013
BEFORE is a prequel novella that takes place before Dale and Nicole meet in BETWIXT. It starts with Dale, staring through his window at a sad, lost girl. He doesn’t know why, but he feels an intense longing to help her. But will she want the help of a scarred boy with a reckless past?
The story then flashes back to 14 months earlier, when Dale’s life changed drastically. He’d been a fairly typical 15-year-old boy—fighting his parents’ strict rules and Christian upbringing. He started hanging out with a bad crowd and before he knew it he was reveling in the freedom of stolen cars and easy women (okay just one woman). It wasn’t long before his parents caught on to his antics and tried to stop his deviant behavior, but that only pushed him further and faster. Several bad decisions later and he finds himself in a life-threatening situation hoping he’ll live long enough to make a change.
Dale gets his second chance but it’s with a mangled scar on his face as a constant reminder of his past. But Nicole makes him want to do more then hide out and study away the hours until he’s in college. He finds himself wanting to enter high school again just for the chance to help her.
BEFORE sets the stage for Dale and Nicole’s story in BETWIXT and I’m excited to see what Melissa Pearl has in store!
**Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
**Reviewed by preppea on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews.
The story then flashes back to 14 months earlier, when Dale’s life changed drastically. He’d been a fairly typical 15-year-old boy—fighting his parents’ strict rules and Christian upbringing. He started hanging out with a bad crowd and before he knew it he was reveling in the freedom of stolen cars and easy women (okay just one woman). It wasn’t long before his parents caught on to his antics and tried to stop his deviant behavior, but that only pushed him further and faster. Several bad decisions later and he finds himself in a life-threatening situation hoping he’ll live long enough to make a change.
Dale gets his second chance but it’s with a mangled scar on his face as a constant reminder of his past. But Nicole makes him want to do more then hide out and study away the hours until he’s in college. He finds himself wanting to enter high school again just for the chance to help her.
BEFORE sets the stage for Dale and Nicole’s story in BETWIXT and I’m excited to see what Melissa Pearl has in store!
**Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
**Reviewed by preppea on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews.
January 10, 2014
Novellas can be tricky. They are short, so there’s little time to grab the reader. Typically, you still have to read a couple chapters (at least) before you’re sucked in. That wasn’t the case with this one, though. I was intrigued right from the start. Dale Finnigan lets you know the kind of person he has become, but then he takes you on a ride showing you just how he became that person. Dale’s father is a minister, and Dale had felt stiffled by rules. He rebelled, which lead to some very ugly consequences.
This story is full of some very raw truths and harsh realities. It shows the joys, but mostly the heartaches of living life on the wild side. Having a brother of my own that learned some hard lessons the tough way, it was tough watching Dale in his downward spiral. This book could very well be a life-changer for a vulnerable teen.
The only thing that bugged me in the story was Dale’s parents. But, what parents don’t make mistakes.
This book has a definite Christian aspect to it, but it’s also very REAL with the language to match. I can’t wait to read Betwixt!
*I received a copy via NetGalley and Indie Inked in exchange for an honest review.*
This story is full of some very raw truths and harsh realities. It shows the joys, but mostly the heartaches of living life on the wild side. Having a brother of my own that learned some hard lessons the tough way, it was tough watching Dale in his downward spiral. This book could very well be a life-changer for a vulnerable teen.
The only thing that bugged me in the story was Dale’s parents. But, what parents don’t make mistakes.
This book has a definite Christian aspect to it, but it’s also very REAL with the language to match. I can’t wait to read Betwixt!
*I received a copy via NetGalley and Indie Inked in exchange for an honest review.*
October 9, 2013
I really enjoyed Betwixt, so I was eager to read this and discover Dale's back story. I love the cover, it drew me in before I even started reading.
Melissa brought Dale to life, I really understood what he was thinking and feeling and it was very realistic. It's hard to review this without giving away spoilers, so I'll just say that the description of the main event was so vivid I felt like I was there with them. Superbly written.
I didn't care for Dale's parents. They were strict to the point of controlling, forcing Dale to be what they wanted him to be, rather than letting him be his own person. I'm sure, if they hadn't have been so strict, Dale wouldn't have felt the need to push back so hard.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Melissa brought Dale to life, I really understood what he was thinking and feeling and it was very realistic. It's hard to review this without giving away spoilers, so I'll just say that the description of the main event was so vivid I felt like I was there with them. Superbly written.
I didn't care for Dale's parents. They were strict to the point of controlling, forcing Dale to be what they wanted him to be, rather than letting him be his own person. I'm sure, if they hadn't have been so strict, Dale wouldn't have felt the need to push back so hard.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2013
Rating: 4/5
Before is the story of Dale, what happened to him before he met Nicole. This really gets us inside his head to see what he have been through and what made him change. I really enjoyed his point of view, because even though we learned all the bad decisions he made in his life he was a very sympathetic character. I read this prequel first so I didn't know how he will trun out but I still loved him.
*I received a review copy of this book, as part of the Blog Tour, in exchange for an honest review*
Before is the story of Dale, what happened to him before he met Nicole. This really gets us inside his head to see what he have been through and what made him change. I really enjoyed his point of view, because even though we learned all the bad decisions he made in his life he was a very sympathetic character. I read this prequel first so I didn't know how he will trun out but I still loved him.
*I received a review copy of this book, as part of the Blog Tour, in exchange for an honest review*
September 18, 2013
this book was very much like some teen act out...I couldn't seem to put down to know what happened and what he felt, but I hate the fact that goes thru a trauma and seem to realize how lucky he is. for a teen his one grown young man who learn. I can't wait for the next book and I need to read more...
November 14, 2017
I just finished the Betwixt series by Melissa Pearl! All three only took me a couple of days and my full review will be posted on all three for Amazon, Goodreads and my blogger once it is done. I would recommend to read The space between heartbeats, Betwixt then Before in the series.
I love all of Melissa Pearl/Jordan Ford books! I couldn't believe that I missed this fantastic series! Betwist, the Sequel and Prequel was so unexpected and had some supernatural twists that will leave you guessing! I fell in love with Dale from the start and the suspense of finding Nicole to see if she survives kept me on my toes till the very end. Read this series and check out all of this author's books as well!
I love all of Melissa Pearl/Jordan Ford books! I couldn't believe that I missed this fantastic series! Betwist, the Sequel and Prequel was so unexpected and had some supernatural twists that will leave you guessing! I fell in love with Dale from the start and the suspense of finding Nicole to see if she survives kept me on my toes till the very end. Read this series and check out all of this author's books as well!
August 28, 2022
Loved being able to read about Dale's troubled past and how he became to young man he portrayed in the main book in this series "The Space Between Heartbeats " or as previously called "Betwixt". This book explained so much and honestly at one point angered me reading how he treated his parents with his stupidity and carelessness. I would totally recommend this book to all who read the main book.
August 14, 2022
This is for the 2022 revised edition.
I read this one after reading Betwixt, kinda glad as 15 yr old Dale is a twat. But I'm glad to know that a terrible tragedy turned his life around as he grew into a young man. At 15 there are hormones, hatred for the world, hating parents' rules and the list goes on. The worse is being a thief, even though the boys think joyriding is harmless fun. This is a story of youth, friendship and peer pressure, a dangerous mix but real. Dale learned such a hard lesson in growing up. I highly recommend these stories, I'm off to read the sequel now.
I read this one after reading Betwixt, kinda glad as 15 yr old Dale is a twat. But I'm glad to know that a terrible tragedy turned his life around as he grew into a young man. At 15 there are hormones, hatred for the world, hating parents' rules and the list goes on. The worse is being a thief, even though the boys think joyriding is harmless fun. This is a story of youth, friendship and peer pressure, a dangerous mix but real. Dale learned such a hard lesson in growing up. I highly recommend these stories, I'm off to read the sequel now.
August 15, 2022
Dale’s life is spiralling out of control. He is rebelling against his parents rules in a dangerous way that can bring a lot of trouble. Can he change in time or will it be too late for him?
December 16, 2013
Dale Finnigan was first introduced to readers in Betwixt and we learned there the short version of how he became the young man Nicole gets to really know, the young man behind the terrible physical scars. Before is his story; here, we watch him spiral ever downwards until he reaches that critical point from which there may be no return. I found it interesting that, unlike Nicole, Dale seems to have no real cause for his rebellion other than feeling chafed by rules. I’m quite sure he resents the near-perfection his parents appear to think his sister, Rachel, personifies—no one can compete with that—but that wouldn’t seem to be enough to make him go off the rails.
When Dale learns a family secret, it’s not surprising that he runs right back to his unsavory behavior but it’s not necessarily because of what the secret is so much as the fact that it WAS a secret. So much agony could have been averted if his parents had just been open about their own youthful mistakes. Still, even if Dale had known the truth all along, he still might have turned to a “bad boy” lifestyle if his parents had persisted with their strictness. Many a kid has gone wild because of what they perceive as too heavy a parental hand.
When Dale finally finds himself in a moment of true crisis, he is confronted with a truth he has long denied and must make a choice, to give up or to accept. That choice will define his life.
Overview
The Betwixt Series is almost a primer on how parents can fail no matter which road they take. In Nicole’s case, her mom and dad were far too lenient, letting her make so many wrong choices because they thought she needed to find her own way to cope with grief. Dale’s parents took the opposite approach and their constant rules and regulations drove him to an existence with no real point other than rebellion. Both teens are wanderers in life with no confidence in themselves or belief in anything. This, of course, is the focus of much Christian fiction and Melissa Pearl handles it very well without being heavyhanded.
The series also exemplifies the idea that we must hit rock bottom before we can truly heal from our own misguided and self-destructive behavior. Certainly Nicole and Dale are both on the verge of death when they begin to understand what really matters and, in doing so, reach a point at which each just might have a chance to survive with grace.
Finally, it’s a tale of two teens whose lives intertwine and how that ripples out to their families and to the wider community. It’s a tale very well-told and I’ll be reading more by Melissa Pearl.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, December 2013.
When Dale learns a family secret, it’s not surprising that he runs right back to his unsavory behavior but it’s not necessarily because of what the secret is so much as the fact that it WAS a secret. So much agony could have been averted if his parents had just been open about their own youthful mistakes. Still, even if Dale had known the truth all along, he still might have turned to a “bad boy” lifestyle if his parents had persisted with their strictness. Many a kid has gone wild because of what they perceive as too heavy a parental hand.
When Dale finally finds himself in a moment of true crisis, he is confronted with a truth he has long denied and must make a choice, to give up or to accept. That choice will define his life.
Overview
The Betwixt Series is almost a primer on how parents can fail no matter which road they take. In Nicole’s case, her mom and dad were far too lenient, letting her make so many wrong choices because they thought she needed to find her own way to cope with grief. Dale’s parents took the opposite approach and their constant rules and regulations drove him to an existence with no real point other than rebellion. Both teens are wanderers in life with no confidence in themselves or belief in anything. This, of course, is the focus of much Christian fiction and Melissa Pearl handles it very well without being heavyhanded.
The series also exemplifies the idea that we must hit rock bottom before we can truly heal from our own misguided and self-destructive behavior. Certainly Nicole and Dale are both on the verge of death when they begin to understand what really matters and, in doing so, reach a point at which each just might have a chance to survive with grace.
Finally, it’s a tale of two teens whose lives intertwine and how that ripples out to their families and to the wider community. It’s a tale very well-told and I’ll be reading more by Melissa Pearl.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, December 2013.
January 18, 2014
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Melissa Pearl's Before is nothing short of amazing. They say the teen years are the rebellious years and for Dale, fighting against the limitations and rules set by his parents could turn into a life changing nightmare he will live with for the rest of his life, if he isn't careful. Dale is the rebel of the family, the one who never seems to measure up to what others expect of him,so why bother? Pushing the limits as far as he dares and then pushing a little beyond that is his only release from his own feelings of failure that he sees mirrored in his parents' eyes. The more they threaten and restrict, the more devious and reckless he becomes, until one night changes his life forever.
Ms. Pearl has nailed this snapshot of two generations failing to really communicate. She has breathed life into Dale with her words. His thoughts, his feelings and his frustrations are spot on, as are those of his parents, who fail find the right path to take with him. Ms. Pearl raises an interesting question, how honest should parents be about their pasts?
Filled with all of the inner angst of being a teen who wants to loved for who he is, not what he should be, this brief novella has as much to offer as tomes many times larger.
I received this copy from Indie Inked in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Twixt, Book 0.5
Publication Date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Indie Inked
ISBN: 9781301174416
Genre: YA Fiction
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Melissa Pearl's Before is nothing short of amazing. They say the teen years are the rebellious years and for Dale, fighting against the limitations and rules set by his parents could turn into a life changing nightmare he will live with for the rest of his life, if he isn't careful. Dale is the rebel of the family, the one who never seems to measure up to what others expect of him,so why bother? Pushing the limits as far as he dares and then pushing a little beyond that is his only release from his own feelings of failure that he sees mirrored in his parents' eyes. The more they threaten and restrict, the more devious and reckless he becomes, until one night changes his life forever.
Ms. Pearl has nailed this snapshot of two generations failing to really communicate. She has breathed life into Dale with her words. His thoughts, his feelings and his frustrations are spot on, as are those of his parents, who fail find the right path to take with him. Ms. Pearl raises an interesting question, how honest should parents be about their pasts?
Filled with all of the inner angst of being a teen who wants to loved for who he is, not what he should be, this brief novella has as much to offer as tomes many times larger.
I received this copy from Indie Inked in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Twixt, Book 0.5
Publication Date: September 17, 2013
Publisher: Indie Inked
ISBN: 9781301174416
Genre: YA Fiction
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
July 24, 2016
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Before is the prequel to Betwixt by Melissa Pearl. Before gives you a look at Dale's life before his accident. It fully details the crowd he ran with and how he let them influence him, the trouble he caused, family life, and all the big and small things that turned him into the person he is in Betwixt. For such a small book, it really gives you everything you need to know about Dale. Even through all his shenanigans, you can tell he is a really good guy at heart. I enjoyed getting to know the "Before" Dale. It made me really appreciate the "Betwixt" Dale.
Before by Melissa Pearl was provided to me by Xpresso Book Tours for review. The opinions are my own.
December 6, 2013
This book is a good read. We get a glimpse of Dale’s youth. He was just like any rebellious teenager; his parents always pressuring him to do things he didn’t want to do so he went out with friends, drinking, partying, stealing cars and having sex until one night a tragedy strikes. Dale is dealing with his past and a scar that will forever remain with him yet he is determined to help Nicole, he just doesn’t know exactly how yet. This left me wanting to read more but not to where I need more right now. I guess that’s the down side of reading novella’s sometimes. I believe I would have enjoyed this novella more after reading the full story first. However I will eventually read more the next book in this series because just based on what I read I really enjoyed Dale and I’m sure his story gets even better.
September 30, 2015
{my thoughts} – I had always wondered what Dale’s back story was when I had been reading {BETWIXT}. The back story is very much engaging and quite wonderfully written. It really helps the reader to better understand him, where he came from and why he was perceived the way he was in High School. It makes sense why Nicole hardly paid notice to him in the school hallways and why he liked to keep to himself.
This book although short, justifies his character by every means possible. I really enjoyed getting to know him more and also loved the brief scene with his dog Jester. Although I wish there was more mention of the dog, call me hopeless the book met my expectations after reading {BETWIXT} first. This is a wonderful beginning to an excellently written series.
This book although short, justifies his character by every means possible. I really enjoyed getting to know him more and also loved the brief scene with his dog Jester. Although I wish there was more mention of the dog, call me hopeless the book met my expectations after reading {BETWIXT} first. This is a wonderful beginning to an excellently written series.
December 15, 2013
I received this book free to review from Netgalley. It is a prequel to the book "Betwixt", which I have not read. "Before" tells the story of Dale, a rebellious preacher's kid who is running with the wrong crowd. When he overhears his parents talking about their own past, which was less than perfect, and more importantly to Dale, kept secret, Dale uses that as an excuse to continue with his partying ways. I found this book a bit too Christianly formulaic. Preacher's kid rebels, finds out his parents are not perfect, gets into drinking and sex, but neither really satisfies him, and the results are rather tragic. Still, it is a well written, well edited and interesting book.
September 7, 2020
Interesting prequel
I have not read The Space Between Heartbeats but it looks good, so I decided to read the prequel. Dale is a lost teenager, trying to fit in, who makes friends with a couple of guys that are bad news.
I am not sure if some of his actions are spurred by per pressure or anger at his parents.
Melissa does a great job writing the emotions so many teens go through. The story, although short, is engaging and heartfelt. I really how the story had faith in a God elements in it.
I am looking forward to reading Nicole’s story and finding out what happens to a Dale.
I have not read The Space Between Heartbeats but it looks good, so I decided to read the prequel. Dale is a lost teenager, trying to fit in, who makes friends with a couple of guys that are bad news.
I am not sure if some of his actions are spurred by per pressure or anger at his parents.
Melissa does a great job writing the emotions so many teens go through. The story, although short, is engaging and heartfelt. I really how the story had faith in a God elements in it.
I am looking forward to reading Nicole’s story and finding out what happens to a Dale.
August 11, 2016
Before was my favorite of the three books in the series, although I wish I hadn’t read it first. Betwixt would have been more mysterious if I didn’t have all the background information beforehand. It was, by far, the most mature of the series, in that there is a fair amount of sex, alcohol and criminal behavior. It is Dale’s past, leading up to Betwixt, and it takes the reader a great length of the way to understanding him.
An important part of the series!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
An important part of the series!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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