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SPLINTER - A Novel in Verse

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Emancipating from foster care and struggling to move forward from her traumatic past, 18 year-old Brewen's got no family and nowhere to go. Her best friend, Destiny smuggles her into her dorm room and her heart.

Dissociations,
a boyfriend who reeks of deception,
Brewen risks home
and friendship to
guarantee Destiny's safety.

To save Destiny,
Brewen must save herself.
To save herself,
Brewen must save Destiny.

Told from both Brewen and Destiny's perspectives, this edgy novel in verse will take you on a dive into the heart of a survivor, through college parties and chess games, fire and confusion, friendship and hope.

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2024

8 people are currently reading
23 people want to read

About the author

Betsy O'Neill-Sheehan

4 books3 followers

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5 stars
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13 (30%)
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
Profile Image for Creya Casale | cc.shelflove.
562 reviews421 followers
May 20, 2024
Splinter is a novel of courage and hope. We follow two girls, Brewen and Destiny, in alternating point of view as they work to find their way. Brewen has just emancipated from foster care in the wake of her 18th birthday, while Destiny is looking ahead to new beginnings at University of Vermont. Brewen has nowhere to go, so Destiny brings her to college with her, hoping no one will notice the extra life in her dorm.

The novel centers around Brewen’s unresolved traumas from her past and Destiny’s diagnoses of anxiety and OCD. Faced with a series of co-incidents (the good that comes with the bad), will they continue to recover, or will they crumple under the pressure of it all?

Free verse has always been one of my favorite writing styles, so I knew I had to read this when Betsy approached me with her new book. I felt such joy at the novel’s conclusion, and I know it will be enjoyed by readers of many demographics and ages. While we await its formal release, I’ll be cheering for Brewen and Destiny on the sidelines. Cue the applause!

“And the funny thing is she was always a queen. She just didn’t know it yet.”
Profile Image for Sam Merchant .
2 reviews
June 13, 2024
This was really my first novel in verse I read and one thing for sure is I will be reading more after this one! It was an extremely captivating read! I was hooked from page one. I kept wanting more with every page! It was a powerful read as well. When I finished the book, it left me with new thoughts to ponder and dive into. I am recommending this book to all my fellow readers! It’s unlike anything I’ve ever read before and o felt so many different emotions. Written so beautifully and truly conveyed the message it wanted! Great read!
Profile Image for Angela Shea.
10 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2024
It’s been a very long time since I’ve read something that immediately made me feel like I wanted to hurry up and reread it again. Splinter by Betsy O'Neill-Sheehan is a must read book. This book had me hooked from the very beginning…and kept me turning pages quickly, while still savoring the plot.

Congratulations Betsy. You are a gift, and your work - a treasure.

#Splinter #BetsyONeillSheehan #goodreads #amazonkindlebooks
86 reviews
May 8, 2025
Splinter

This book is perfect for anyone who has lost themselves at any point in their life. It's a must read if you are still looking for all of your pieces.
Profile Image for Shannon O'boyle.
6 reviews
July 31, 2025
Epic

Splinter is creative, thoughtful and heartfelt. So many beautiful poems woven together for life and breadth. A treasure to enjoy
Profile Image for Gina Dewey.
32 reviews2 followers
April 30, 2025
Captivating story about Brewen and Destiny life friends..Destiny gets a scholarship for higher education and Brewen is left alone..what will become of their friendship. Well written in verse and the narrative of the gals. You won't think the same way again after reading this!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews

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