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A Life Without You
Touching, funny, and bittersweet, this is a story that will make you laugh, cry, and call your best friend to tell her you love her. 30-year-old Dee Harper and her husband, Joe, are blissfully happy. Everyday she makes her loyal parents Val & Don incredibly proud. Jen has been her best friend and 'adopted sister' since their days of teenage crushes, bad 90's make-up and huge hair. They are just like any other group of family and friends, living life, getting by with equal measures of love and laughter. Until one day everything changes. Dee is gone, killed by a reckless driver, leaving the people she loved to deal with their grief in different ways. A marriage is rocked as a parent becomes consumed with seeking justice. A husband struggles to accept the loss of his wife and their future. And a friend discovers that there were shocking secrets that went unshared. But all of them have to learn that the only way forward is to let go of the past. What readers are saying about A LIFE WITHOUT 'Another great story from Shari Low; again showing her in understanding of human emotions, and human frailty. I definitely recommend it!' 'Such superb writing that you are completely drawn in and captivated by each character ... you will not be able to stop reading from the moment you start' 'Brilliant from start to finish'
352 pages, Paperback
Published June 14, 2018
1401 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
About the author
Shari Low
78 books1,466 followers*No1 Multi-Million Copy Best-Selling Author*
In a career spanning twenty five years, author Shari Low has published over 40 books, and sold over five million copies around the globe, hitting the best seller charts in many countries including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.
In 2020, her first novel, What If? (originally published in 2001), was updated and re-released, followed by the sequels What Now? and What Next?. All three novels became international best sellers.
Since then, several of Shari's books have been #1 chart-toppers - including One Day With You, One Moment in Time, One Christmas Eve, One Year After You, One Midnight With You and One Day & Forever.
Her latest novels, One More Day of Us and One Snowy Day were published in 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Shari has also co-written three Hollywood thrillers, The Rise, The Catch and The Fall, with LA-based TV presenter and actor Ross King.
In real life, once upon a time she met a guy, got engaged after a week, and thirty-something years later she lives near Glasgow with the one they said would never last. Their children have now grown and scattered across the world, so she spends an inordinate amount of time on video calls and aeroplanes.
For all the latest news, visit Shari on Facebook, twitter, instagram or at sharilow dot com
In a career spanning twenty five years, author Shari Low has published over 40 books, and sold over five million copies around the globe, hitting the best seller charts in many countries including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.
In 2020, her first novel, What If? (originally published in 2001), was updated and re-released, followed by the sequels What Now? and What Next?. All three novels became international best sellers.
Since then, several of Shari's books have been #1 chart-toppers - including One Day With You, One Moment in Time, One Christmas Eve, One Year After You, One Midnight With You and One Day & Forever.
Her latest novels, One More Day of Us and One Snowy Day were published in 2025 by Boldwood Books.
Shari has also co-written three Hollywood thrillers, The Rise, The Catch and The Fall, with LA-based TV presenter and actor Ross King.
In real life, once upon a time she met a guy, got engaged after a week, and thirty-something years later she lives near Glasgow with the one they said would never last. Their children have now grown and scattered across the world, so she spends an inordinate amount of time on video calls and aeroplanes.
For all the latest news, visit Shari on Facebook, twitter, instagram or at sharilow dot com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
April 14, 2019
One Star for Jen she's a much nicer person than I would be in the situations given to her.
One Star for Luke I feel for him for most of the time but it works out okay for him.
I liked both of the characters they were a little too good for many of the other characters. Val would get half a star too, she was okay.
I thought I'd like this story much more than I did, the blurb sounded so good but most of it fell flat on me. It took me some time to read I kept going to find out what happened to Luke and Jen.
One Star for Luke I feel for him for most of the time but it works out okay for him.
I liked both of the characters they were a little too good for many of the other characters. Val would get half a star too, she was okay.
I thought I'd like this story much more than I did, the blurb sounded so good but most of it fell flat on me. It took me some time to read I kept going to find out what happened to Luke and Jen.
April 2, 2017
Really dramatic and heart-wrenching read. It does a great job of portraying grief and regret. When a very loved person dies far too young, those left behind all have different ways of dealing with it. Dee, who died tragically in her early thirties, was an amazing woman. Her huge smile and big personality charmed everyone she met. She was beautiful, successful, and very loved.
Jen and Dee were not only business partners, but best friends since they were children. The women and their significant others had a great friendship with each other. Jen's boyfriend is similar to Dee... energetic, health-conscious, and always down for the next big adventure. Dee's husband Luke, like Jen, is more content to sit on the couch and relax. They all spend a lot of time together and everyone seems happy. With Dee gone, there's a gigantic missing space in their lives for all of them. What happens when a woman that was larger than life is taken from it? The story deals with how those she loved the most deal with her death, including her family. Jen thinks she knew Dee like the back of her own hand, but some secrets about her best friend come to light that she has difficulty dealing with... along with managing the business they created together.
This book isn't all tragedy and loss. There are some really funny moments in it too, and you really get attached to the characters and feel for them.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Aria, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
Jen and Dee were not only business partners, but best friends since they were children. The women and their significant others had a great friendship with each other. Jen's boyfriend is similar to Dee... energetic, health-conscious, and always down for the next big adventure. Dee's husband Luke, like Jen, is more content to sit on the couch and relax. They all spend a lot of time together and everyone seems happy. With Dee gone, there's a gigantic missing space in their lives for all of them. What happens when a woman that was larger than life is taken from it? The story deals with how those she loved the most deal with her death, including her family. Jen thinks she knew Dee like the back of her own hand, but some secrets about her best friend come to light that she has difficulty dealing with... along with managing the business they created together.
This book isn't all tragedy and loss. There are some really funny moments in it too, and you really get attached to the characters and feel for them.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Aria, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
March 2, 2017
After reading The Story of Our Life by Shari Low i was super keen to read her next book A Life without You and all i can say is wow.
Shari Low's writing style is just amazing.
From the moment you pick up the book and start reading you can't help but be captivated. Her books are always touching, bittersweet and will pull at your heartstrings. If you lucky like me you may even shed a tear!
A Life without You follows the story of two best friends Dee and Jen. They have been friends since high school and are practically like sisters.
In a tragic turn of events Jen witnesses a terrible accident where Dee is struck down by a drug induced motorist and dies in Jen's arms.
The day of the funeral, Jen's boyfriend Pete of 15 years decides to up and leave without and explanation and Jen is left to deal with her grief.
She finds solace with Dee's husband who is trying to come to terms with the death of his wife and together they try their hardest to move forward with their lives and learn to live a life without Dee in it.
Along the way Jen discovers some secrets about her best friend and is faced with possibly giving up her own happiness for the sake of her late friend. Jen has a lot of soul searching to do and some very tough decisions to make. Can she move forward and forget the past?
I just loved everything about this book! I was hooked from the very first page and really love how in Shari Low's books most of the action so to speak happens within the first paragraph. definitely my favorite read of 2017 and Shari Low is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
If you like Dani Atkins then i think you would enjoy this book too.
A huge thankyou to Netgalley and Aria for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Shari Low's writing style is just amazing.
From the moment you pick up the book and start reading you can't help but be captivated. Her books are always touching, bittersweet and will pull at your heartstrings. If you lucky like me you may even shed a tear!
A Life without You follows the story of two best friends Dee and Jen. They have been friends since high school and are practically like sisters.
In a tragic turn of events Jen witnesses a terrible accident where Dee is struck down by a drug induced motorist and dies in Jen's arms.
The day of the funeral, Jen's boyfriend Pete of 15 years decides to up and leave without and explanation and Jen is left to deal with her grief.
She finds solace with Dee's husband who is trying to come to terms with the death of his wife and together they try their hardest to move forward with their lives and learn to live a life without Dee in it.
Along the way Jen discovers some secrets about her best friend and is faced with possibly giving up her own happiness for the sake of her late friend. Jen has a lot of soul searching to do and some very tough decisions to make. Can she move forward and forget the past?
I just loved everything about this book! I was hooked from the very first page and really love how in Shari Low's books most of the action so to speak happens within the first paragraph. definitely my favorite read of 2017 and Shari Low is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
If you like Dani Atkins then i think you would enjoy this book too.
A huge thankyou to Netgalley and Aria for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2017
Well the opening chapter was certainly incredibly dramatic, I couldn't tear my eyes away from the action, even though the end result was devastating. From then on the whole story navigates around a family and friends that are coming to terms with the tragic death of Dee, who even in the memories, often added the boost to chapters, she was larger than life, and full of laughter and love.
The main living character in the book is Jen, who was Dee's best friend. She is pretty much part of the family, as Dee's parents have been surrogate parenting Jen since their teens. Jen and Dee were barely ever parted as they worked together, and with their respective other halves often went out or away as a foursome. They were incredibly close, but that isn't the only loss that Jen is dealing with...let's just say she spent too many years of her life with an incredibly insensitive
Then there is Val, Dee's mum, who is bereft and not even having her son Mark, back from Australia for an extended period of time, is helping her grief. She isn't just upset though, but angry, and there are some moment of absolutely almost madness from her that if it weren't for the circumstances would be hilarious.
The other main perspective we get is of Luke, who is now widowed and no idea what to do with his life. Understandably he has lost the love of his life, but with almost indecent speed he already has offers if he is lonely.
Although there is a great deal of emotion in this book, there are also humorous moments, in addition to hope for the future of these characters as time progresses. I felt like by the end that I could have been one of Val's children, I had that much love for her. If you are looking for funny bits then Josie and Ida are the characters to look out for. Josie especially is a rock for the family, has the uncanny knack of knowing what to say and generally feels a bit outrageous!
A Life Without You is a wonderful bittersweet story, full of grief but just the hints of new beginnings. The book has been written beautifully and I really enjoyed the whole story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
The main living character in the book is Jen, who was Dee's best friend. She is pretty much part of the family, as Dee's parents have been surrogate parenting Jen since their teens. Jen and Dee were barely ever parted as they worked together, and with their respective other halves often went out or away as a foursome. They were incredibly close, but that isn't the only loss that Jen is dealing with...let's just say she spent too many years of her life with an incredibly insensitive
Then there is Val, Dee's mum, who is bereft and not even having her son Mark, back from Australia for an extended period of time, is helping her grief. She isn't just upset though, but angry, and there are some moment of absolutely almost madness from her that if it weren't for the circumstances would be hilarious.
The other main perspective we get is of Luke, who is now widowed and no idea what to do with his life. Understandably he has lost the love of his life, but with almost indecent speed he already has offers if he is lonely.
Although there is a great deal of emotion in this book, there are also humorous moments, in addition to hope for the future of these characters as time progresses. I felt like by the end that I could have been one of Val's children, I had that much love for her. If you are looking for funny bits then Josie and Ida are the characters to look out for. Josie especially is a rock for the family, has the uncanny knack of knowing what to say and generally feels a bit outrageous!
A Life Without You is a wonderful bittersweet story, full of grief but just the hints of new beginnings. The book has been written beautifully and I really enjoyed the whole story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 22, 2017
The Blurb :
Dee and Jen have been best friends since their days of teenage crushes, bad 90's make-up and huge hair.
They’ve passed every milestone of their lives together and now in their thirties own a successful boutique, sharing a bond that is as strong as the closest of sisters.
Until one day everything changes.
Dee is gone, killed by a reckless driver, leaving Jen to face the harsh reality of a world without her.
Jen vows to honour Dee’s dreams and take care of everything and everyone she loved.
Until she realises that sometimes the only way forward is to let go of the past.
My Thoughts :
I absolutely loved, loved this book. After being captivated from the first chapter it was one of those you didnt want to put down. I was instantly drawn to the characters and their lives. Jen and Dee were best friends, until Dee unexpectly dies in a tragic accident at such a young age. Although Dee had passed away she was still very much a big role in the book. I really enjoyed how the story was told from different points of view of Dee's family and friends. Its written so well and Shari Low explores the lives of the people Dee has left behind and how they cope with their own grief. Learning to live again after Dee has left them. There are also some funny bits and there will be times you laugh out loud. It is hard not to feel attached to these charactors, and the way it has been put together shows that the author has a great imagination. This is a lovely story that will tug at your heartstrings and have you smiling all the way to the end.
December 11, 2025
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
With such a dramatic and heart-breaking opening chapter, I knew I would be in for a very good read from Low. The characterisation in this book captures the very essence of family and friendships so that when one of your team is missing, the grief feels like an insurmountable barrier to overcome.
With such a dramatic and heart-breaking opening chapter, I knew I would be in for a very good read from Low. The characterisation in this book captures the very essence of family and friendships so that when one of your team is missing, the grief feels like an insurmountable barrier to overcome.
November 6, 2024
High drama and high stakes. I think this is possibly where we first meet my beloved Val? I could be wrong. The devastating event that is written into so many of Shari Low’s other novels takes place in this one. Could I love Val more? I don’t think so. It’s also possible that this is our first encounter with Josie. I love these women dearly. They remind me of a just slightly older version of my best friend and I.
Controversially I don’t love Jen, in fact I really wanted to give her a bloody good shake. I get that she comes completely from peace and love, and a loyalty to her found family and friends, maybe she’s just a much better human than I am. There’s a line though, and the ending for me (that I seen coming) was unforgivable
Loved Mark and Luke!!
Vals journey in this title moved me deeply.
I’ve very unfairly knocked a star off for the narration. I had some real issues where I was speeding characters up and slowing others down, I didn’t llove all of the accents, and I’m pretty sure that the place they lived was misnamed twice - or I’m having a brain lag.
Loved the story. The author can still do no wrong.
Next
Controversially I don’t love Jen, in fact I really wanted to give her a bloody good shake. I get that she comes completely from peace and love, and a loyalty to her found family and friends, maybe she’s just a much better human than I am. There’s a line though, and the ending for me (that I seen coming) was unforgivable
Loved Mark and Luke!!
Vals journey in this title moved me deeply.
I’ve very unfairly knocked a star off for the narration. I had some real issues where I was speeding characters up and slowing others down, I didn’t llove all of the accents, and I’m pretty sure that the place they lived was misnamed twice - or I’m having a brain lag.
Loved the story. The author can still do no wrong.
Next
May 18, 2017
4.25 stars. This book is advertised as "An emotional page-turner to make you laugh and cry" and that's exactly what I did throughout the entire book. I am looking forward to picking up other books by Shari Low.
May 2, 2017
Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book.
This is a story about Jen and Dee. Best friends for so many years, they couldn’t imagine their lives without the other. As close as sisters, co-owners of a successful business and, along with their husband/boyfriend, inseparable. Everything is wonderful until Dee is killed in a tragic accident and Jen is forced to pick up the pieces of her life and move past the loss.
Oh my goodness. Get ready to cry – big ugly tears. Not only do we grieve right along with Jen, but we also meet Val and Don (Dee’s parents), Luke (her husband), Pete (Jen’s boyfriend), Mark (Dee’s brother) and Josie (Val’s best friend). A cast of characters that brought different perspectives to grief and grieving.
What I loved:
Val. I LOVED Val. As the mother who loses her child, she is so perfectly captured. I couldn’t read one of her chapters without crying at some point. As someone who lost her brother to a similar tragic event, I felt that Val’s sense of anger and grief was so authentic. Her final chapter was honestly one of my favourite parts of the book.
Luke. The ideal husband, friend and son-in-law. His grief tugged at my heart.
I loved that this had a little mystery to it (Dee left a few surprises for Jen to uncover). If you’ve read Catherine McKenzie’s novel Hidden – and loved it, then you’ll love this one too. A really solid read.
This is a story about Jen and Dee. Best friends for so many years, they couldn’t imagine their lives without the other. As close as sisters, co-owners of a successful business and, along with their husband/boyfriend, inseparable. Everything is wonderful until Dee is killed in a tragic accident and Jen is forced to pick up the pieces of her life and move past the loss.
Oh my goodness. Get ready to cry – big ugly tears. Not only do we grieve right along with Jen, but we also meet Val and Don (Dee’s parents), Luke (her husband), Pete (Jen’s boyfriend), Mark (Dee’s brother) and Josie (Val’s best friend). A cast of characters that brought different perspectives to grief and grieving.
What I loved:
Val. I LOVED Val. As the mother who loses her child, she is so perfectly captured. I couldn’t read one of her chapters without crying at some point. As someone who lost her brother to a similar tragic event, I felt that Val’s sense of anger and grief was so authentic. Her final chapter was honestly one of my favourite parts of the book.
Luke. The ideal husband, friend and son-in-law. His grief tugged at my heart.
I loved that this had a little mystery to it (Dee left a few surprises for Jen to uncover). If you’ve read Catherine McKenzie’s novel Hidden – and loved it, then you’ll love this one too. A really solid read.
May 25, 2020
The concept of the book was good but think it wasn’t that well written. It felt like the author decided what was gonna happen as she went along just adding random things as she went. Also noticed that Dee’s husband was called Luke but on the blurb was called Joe, surely that’s one of the first things you’d check when publishing a book. However I’m glad that all the characters got a happy ending
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2019
I enjoyed the book, just felt it was a little predictable. However, I found myself getting very involved with the characters. Just confusing (not that it matters!) that the blurb says Dee’s husband is called Joe, when in fact he’s called Luke?!
April 21, 2017
I have been an avid reader and follower of Shari Lows since i first read; The Story Of Our Lives, followed by The Other Wives Club a few months ago. Shari is an author i discovered through Netgalley, and am i pleased i did!
As it was then and still is now, it's the beautifully designed covers that first attracted me. Lovely, simple, clean designs with such vibrant colours, you can't help but smile and feel yourself lift, just by looking at them. They hold a promise of what lies within, and i guarantee you won't be disappointed.
We have Jen and Dee, business partners and life long friends with the roots of it in childhood. What helps is the fact that their significant others also share a strong bond so the foursome are practically joined at the hip(s).
So what happens when one is taken away?
Everything is fine, life couldn't be better. Until the unthinkable happens. Jen watches as Dee loses her life whilst trying to save anothers. Hit by a motorist, high on drugs, she dies in the arms of her best friend Jen. Dee's passing leaves a gap in all of their lives, in an instant, a friend, a best friend, a wife and a daughter is gone.
Each of them has to deal with their own losses and grief in their own way. Death is always hard to take but a sudden, unexpected death is different again.
Whilst Jen is trying to come to terms with it, and carry on as best she can, on the day of the funeral she is dealt another cruel blow. Her boyfriend of 15 years, Pete, ups and leaves.
Feeling utterly alone and bereft, we follow Jen as she tries to pick up the pieces and carry on. To continue running the business that they'd founded together.
We then have Dees' widowed husband, Luke. What does he do now, without his wonderful wife? Without her vivacious personality to brighten each day. Jen and Luke find solace and take comfort in each other, help each other. Val, Dees' mother , doesn't handle it well. I can't say i blame her in the slightest. How DO you deal with the death of a child? The thought alone is enough to have cold fingers grip my heart and send a shiver down my spine. Val is clearly upset (obviously) and at the same time is
furious. Filled with an anger and rage that at times drives her to the brink of madness.
This is a tricky subject to navigate through. To deal with personal loss and tragedy in a sensitive but realistic and truthful way is an achievement in itself and something that Shari has done here with great aplomb. Each of the characters in this book are written with care and given an in depth personality that is entirely relatable .
Yes, this book is based around a horrific tragedy. But it is also so much more than that. From the start you are gripped, the action begins instantly and thanks to the authors writing style, it is all embracing. You have no choice BUT to get sucked in. Be warned, you will have watery eyes if nothing else, i spent most of it trying to swallow down the lump that formed in my throat.
It also though, has some humorous moments. It's been said before, but it is a bittersweet story. Written with delicacy and respect by Shari Low. I love her writing style and the stories she weaves. Just fabulous. I have no hesitation in recommending this to everyone.
And i must thank the author and the lovely people at Aria Fiction who sent me that first message asking if i'd like to take part in the blog tours. Each one is an absolute delight, Thank You!
As it was then and still is now, it's the beautifully designed covers that first attracted me. Lovely, simple, clean designs with such vibrant colours, you can't help but smile and feel yourself lift, just by looking at them. They hold a promise of what lies within, and i guarantee you won't be disappointed.
We have Jen and Dee, business partners and life long friends with the roots of it in childhood. What helps is the fact that their significant others also share a strong bond so the foursome are practically joined at the hip(s).
So what happens when one is taken away?
Everything is fine, life couldn't be better. Until the unthinkable happens. Jen watches as Dee loses her life whilst trying to save anothers. Hit by a motorist, high on drugs, she dies in the arms of her best friend Jen. Dee's passing leaves a gap in all of their lives, in an instant, a friend, a best friend, a wife and a daughter is gone.
Each of them has to deal with their own losses and grief in their own way. Death is always hard to take but a sudden, unexpected death is different again.
Whilst Jen is trying to come to terms with it, and carry on as best she can, on the day of the funeral she is dealt another cruel blow. Her boyfriend of 15 years, Pete, ups and leaves.
Feeling utterly alone and bereft, we follow Jen as she tries to pick up the pieces and carry on. To continue running the business that they'd founded together.
We then have Dees' widowed husband, Luke. What does he do now, without his wonderful wife? Without her vivacious personality to brighten each day. Jen and Luke find solace and take comfort in each other, help each other. Val, Dees' mother , doesn't handle it well. I can't say i blame her in the slightest. How DO you deal with the death of a child? The thought alone is enough to have cold fingers grip my heart and send a shiver down my spine. Val is clearly upset (obviously) and at the same time is
furious. Filled with an anger and rage that at times drives her to the brink of madness.
This is a tricky subject to navigate through. To deal with personal loss and tragedy in a sensitive but realistic and truthful way is an achievement in itself and something that Shari has done here with great aplomb. Each of the characters in this book are written with care and given an in depth personality that is entirely relatable .
Yes, this book is based around a horrific tragedy. But it is also so much more than that. From the start you are gripped, the action begins instantly and thanks to the authors writing style, it is all embracing. You have no choice BUT to get sucked in. Be warned, you will have watery eyes if nothing else, i spent most of it trying to swallow down the lump that formed in my throat.
It also though, has some humorous moments. It's been said before, but it is a bittersweet story. Written with delicacy and respect by Shari Low. I love her writing style and the stories she weaves. Just fabulous. I have no hesitation in recommending this to everyone.
And i must thank the author and the lovely people at Aria Fiction who sent me that first message asking if i'd like to take part in the blog tours. Each one is an absolute delight, Thank You!
April 23, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Dee and Jen's friendship was one of a kind; the storyline made that extremely clear from the very beginning. Witnessing how close they were, even for such a short space of time, was such a joy to see. But out of the blue, a nervous feeling started to come over me and as I hadn't read the blurb beforehand, I had no idea what I was nervous about as I didn't know what would happen. Just as I was trying to ignore the nervous feeling....
BAM!
All of a sudden, the storyline felt like it was unfolding in slow motion. The sheer horror, the pain, the distressing circumstances; every little detail was written with precision and intense clarity. I could see the event unfolding in my head. I could hear the screams. I could hear the sound of Jen's heart breaking into millions of pieces. I wanted to cry but I couldn't; I was numb.
Those events will forever be etched in my mind as they were so vivid! What a mighty good way to start the novel though, eh! If I could go through such a range of emotions in a chapter or two, then my hopes would be soaring for the rest of the storyline. Considering that Shari Low began the novel with such a belter of situation, she managed to keep the momentum going through the rest of the novel. Of course I was a bit concerned that the following chapters wouldn't live up to what I read first, but I needn't have worried.
My heart went out to Jen, and Dee's family as reading about the aftermath was quite emotional and extremely heart breaking. It must have been quite a difficult subject to write about, yet Shari Low kept it realistic without adding any unnecessary outlandish features. Very sensitively written. It made a change to read a storyline containing the topic of death, whose characters didn't just 'get over it' the next day. I really did appreciate how realistic the grieving time-frame was written into the storyline, as well as lightly touching upon individual characters grief.
The more that the storyline unfolded, the more skeletons came out of the closet which made for rather entertaining reading. Well, it also meant that I got rather annoyed with a character or two, but you can't have everything though haha.
I have seen Shari Low's novels on Amazon previously, but they have always been under the 'oh I must read that soon' heading. I am really glad that I got an AriaAddict kick up my tooshmanoosh to read one of her books; Shari is a phenomenal story-teller!
Shari's words seemed effortlessly written, and flawlessly projected through such a heart-warming, emotional and intense storyline. If that's not a description of a literary genius and an outstanding novel, then I have no idea what is.
From the bottom of my heart, 'A Life Without You' is a truly beautiful read which showcases Shari Low's incredible literary talent, as well as her ability to trickle emotion through each and every chapter like a mini waterfall. Outstanding.
Thanks Aria.
Dee and Jen's friendship was one of a kind; the storyline made that extremely clear from the very beginning. Witnessing how close they were, even for such a short space of time, was such a joy to see. But out of the blue, a nervous feeling started to come over me and as I hadn't read the blurb beforehand, I had no idea what I was nervous about as I didn't know what would happen. Just as I was trying to ignore the nervous feeling....
BAM!
All of a sudden, the storyline felt like it was unfolding in slow motion. The sheer horror, the pain, the distressing circumstances; every little detail was written with precision and intense clarity. I could see the event unfolding in my head. I could hear the screams. I could hear the sound of Jen's heart breaking into millions of pieces. I wanted to cry but I couldn't; I was numb.
Those events will forever be etched in my mind as they were so vivid! What a mighty good way to start the novel though, eh! If I could go through such a range of emotions in a chapter or two, then my hopes would be soaring for the rest of the storyline. Considering that Shari Low began the novel with such a belter of situation, she managed to keep the momentum going through the rest of the novel. Of course I was a bit concerned that the following chapters wouldn't live up to what I read first, but I needn't have worried.
My heart went out to Jen, and Dee's family as reading about the aftermath was quite emotional and extremely heart breaking. It must have been quite a difficult subject to write about, yet Shari Low kept it realistic without adding any unnecessary outlandish features. Very sensitively written. It made a change to read a storyline containing the topic of death, whose characters didn't just 'get over it' the next day. I really did appreciate how realistic the grieving time-frame was written into the storyline, as well as lightly touching upon individual characters grief.
The more that the storyline unfolded, the more skeletons came out of the closet which made for rather entertaining reading. Well, it also meant that I got rather annoyed with a character or two, but you can't have everything though haha.
I have seen Shari Low's novels on Amazon previously, but they have always been under the 'oh I must read that soon' heading. I am really glad that I got an AriaAddict kick up my tooshmanoosh to read one of her books; Shari is a phenomenal story-teller!
Shari's words seemed effortlessly written, and flawlessly projected through such a heart-warming, emotional and intense storyline. If that's not a description of a literary genius and an outstanding novel, then I have no idea what is.
From the bottom of my heart, 'A Life Without You' is a truly beautiful read which showcases Shari Low's incredible literary talent, as well as her ability to trickle emotion through each and every chapter like a mini waterfall. Outstanding.
Thanks Aria.
March 27, 2017
I cried from the first chapter. I wasn't expecting that, and started the book with breakfast one morning. Off I went to work with a tear stained face! Thanks Shari! I've read Shari Low's books from the beginning, although I hadn't seen any for a while until I rediscovered the newer books recently. I found them quite different, in that the while earlier books were more raunchy, the more recent ones are dealing with grittier issues. Always a pleasure to read, with sympathetic characters. As Dee's secrets come out as we go through the book, I must admit I was surprised with some of her goings on, and I was cheering Jen on from the sidelines. I wasn't sure if I wanted her to get together with Luke or if that would be too convenient, but right from the start they seemed more suited to each other. I loved the family set up, and being from Glasgow the characters were so true to life. I'd love to follow their stories further. Dee's mum reacted in such a human way to her daughter's death, and it was interesting to witness her internal struggles as she learned more about the killer's family. All in all another great read - keep them coming!
January 5, 2018
I loved it. I loved the sad bits, I loved the happy bits and I loved all the bits in between.
This is my 2nd Shari Low novel and it wont be my last, she is fast becoming a favourite author of mine.
I'm going to miss Jen, Luke, Mark, Val and especially Josie.
This is my 2nd Shari Low novel and it wont be my last, she is fast becoming a favourite author of mine.
I'm going to miss Jen, Luke, Mark, Val and especially Josie.
April 14, 2017
A good but sad story
January 19, 2021
Absolutely loved this book, couldn’t put it down but have tissues handy when you read it
April 17, 2017
How the sudden death of a loved one can cause not only immense grief but many unexpected chain of events is well demonstrated in this book. Dee’s demise brought out among her loved ones facets that would normally have not surfaced. Their strengths, their love, and loyalty were put to the test. To be able to cope or not is really up to the person. It is very true how one can appear calm and collected, but actually so torn up inside.
Shari Low again demonstrated her skillful writing that had me wanting to neglect everything and just curl up and finish the book; but that luxury wasn’t there. The tugs in my heart, the near tears, the happiness shared towards the end; they were all worth all the reading distractions called real life.
Shari Low again demonstrated her skillful writing that had me wanting to neglect everything and just curl up and finish the book; but that luxury wasn’t there. The tugs in my heart, the near tears, the happiness shared towards the end; they were all worth all the reading distractions called real life.
August 7, 2017
Love and loss
Loved reading this book. I loved the way it gave insight to all the characters and how each one felt about their grief. The main emotion though was love, also showed nobody is perfect. Beautifully written.😊
Loved reading this book. I loved the way it gave insight to all the characters and how each one felt about their grief. The main emotion though was love, also showed nobody is perfect. Beautifully written.😊
April 13, 2017
Dee and Jen have been best friends since school and so when Dee is killed by a druggie motorist she is absolutely devastated - the biggest part of her life has just gone. To make matters worse her own boyfriend of 15 years ups and leaves her as well.
Totally lost Jen turns more and more to Dee's husband as they try and console each other over the huge gap in their lives - but as Jen learns some secrets she has to make a decision about her own future.
A lovely bittersweet book, very emotional but with laughs along the way and a book that stays with you after you have finished reading it
Totally lost Jen turns more and more to Dee's husband as they try and console each other over the huge gap in their lives - but as Jen learns some secrets she has to make a decision about her own future.
A lovely bittersweet book, very emotional but with laughs along the way and a book that stays with you after you have finished reading it
February 24, 2017
Set in Glasgow focusing on the lives of two friends since they were five years old, Dee and Jen.
They run a business together now all week except Sunday's or probable party day considering when we meet them!
However, a crime on the doorstep and a one in a million accident sees us watch as Dee tries to save little Archie a young child from a car hitting him, thus instead we see Dee through Jen's horrified eyes and how she comes to term with what she's not just witnessed but just whom she has now lost.
We see Jen go through the motions of grief and the support she has from everyone including Pete, her boyfriend as well as seeing Dee's family including her husband coming to terms with their sudden tragic loss.
But then Jen's life is changed once again only this time on the day of her best friends funeral in a way she didn't see coming.
The romances in the book and the actions of our characters display all the usual chick lit traits and I also enjoyed the a split perspectives amongst the group of friends and family around Jen and Dee.
This was a great book from a lovely new author, I can't wait for more to come in the future from Shari.
Thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
They run a business together now all week except Sunday's or probable party day considering when we meet them!
However, a crime on the doorstep and a one in a million accident sees us watch as Dee tries to save little Archie a young child from a car hitting him, thus instead we see Dee through Jen's horrified eyes and how she comes to term with what she's not just witnessed but just whom she has now lost.
We see Jen go through the motions of grief and the support she has from everyone including Pete, her boyfriend as well as seeing Dee's family including her husband coming to terms with their sudden tragic loss.
But then Jen's life is changed once again only this time on the day of her best friends funeral in a way she didn't see coming.
The romances in the book and the actions of our characters display all the usual chick lit traits and I also enjoyed the a split perspectives amongst the group of friends and family around Jen and Dee.
This was a great book from a lovely new author, I can't wait for more to come in the future from Shari.
Thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
June 1, 2017
There were no laughs here!
I enjoyed getting to know all the charActers, a nd their relationships with each other. Reminds one of who you invited to your wedding, but then grew apart. Backstabbing, dishonesty, broken relationships, infidelities.
What is funny in all this?
Shari low has not let me down quite this "low", if you'll forgive the pun.
Skip it and go on to to her next great read, which is sure to come.
I enjoyed getting to know all the charActers, a nd their relationships with each other. Reminds one of who you invited to your wedding, but then grew apart. Backstabbing, dishonesty, broken relationships, infidelities.
What is funny in all this?
Shari low has not let me down quite this "low", if you'll forgive the pun.
Skip it and go on to to her next great read, which is sure to come.
November 14, 2017
Dramatic start but soon became predictable and repititious.
November 25, 2017
Easy reading.
It was a bit predictable., but enjoyable. Able to get back into the story even after leaving it down for a couple of days.
It was a bit predictable., but enjoyable. Able to get back into the story even after leaving it down for a couple of days.
May 17, 2018
Maybe an unfair rating, it was a good story but a little too filled with anxiety for me. Maybe it’s my current state of mind but just left me feeling a bit gloomy.
December 16, 2018
Great book that highlights how short life is and to appreciate those closest to you ♥️
March 16, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, but I've been curious as to why the blurb says "Dee Harper and her husband Joe." I'm guessing this is just a mistake?
December 4, 2024
Another one of Shari Lows' books completed...
3.5⭐️
Not my fave but still enjoyed it, I think because I have already listened to so many it felt like I almost knew the story through all the others I've listened to that came after this although listening to this did actually connect some dots for me and clarify some details I didn't know regarding Dee for example.
As much as I've heard of Dee and her tragic death via Val through some other Shari books, this one was obviously dedicated to this whole story line, which then puts things into perspective.
It's also a little different and felt so strange not listening to Helen McAlpine do the narration not bad per say just odd like I couldn't quite match up the story properly just because I'm so used to listening to these books by Helen McAlpine now. Association is a strange anomaly of the human mind in how we receive information!
Overall, I'm still glad I listened, of course, and enjoyed this. I just would have preferred if I had maybe listened to this one at the beginning of my Shari Low journey or at least close to beginning 😅 This may therefore be unfairly 3.5⭐️ simply because all others I've experienced however it's where I'm at now for this one! For me, this just shows improvement as time goes on with writing skills and delivery. I'm always going to be a fan!
3.5⭐️
Not my fave but still enjoyed it, I think because I have already listened to so many it felt like I almost knew the story through all the others I've listened to that came after this although listening to this did actually connect some dots for me and clarify some details I didn't know regarding Dee for example.
As much as I've heard of Dee and her tragic death via Val through some other Shari books, this one was obviously dedicated to this whole story line, which then puts things into perspective.
It's also a little different and felt so strange not listening to Helen McAlpine do the narration not bad per say just odd like I couldn't quite match up the story properly just because I'm so used to listening to these books by Helen McAlpine now. Association is a strange anomaly of the human mind in how we receive information!
Overall, I'm still glad I listened, of course, and enjoyed this. I just would have preferred if I had maybe listened to this one at the beginning of my Shari Low journey or at least close to beginning 😅 This may therefore be unfairly 3.5⭐️ simply because all others I've experienced however it's where I'm at now for this one! For me, this just shows improvement as time goes on with writing skills and delivery. I'm always going to be a fan!
January 7, 2018
Writing wise -
Shari does an incredible job of connecting you with characters and conveying their emotions.
Storyline wise -
The book took a completely different turn to what I was expecting. I started off thinking that Dee was a wonderful person and amazing friend and I couldn’t have been more wrong. All of the different reveals that came out through the story infuriated me (how could she begin an affair on her honeymoon?!?) and the final straw came with Pete. I actually cannot stand Dee’s character anymore and how her family and friends had her on such a pedestal.
Luke and Jen deserved a whole lot better and whilst I wasn’t massively keen on them getting together when I thought Dee was an angel I was happy with how the book ended.
There are lots of good moments in the book and I did enjoy it but I did find myself getting so mad at points I began having hot flushes!
I suppose you know an authors doing it well when you get so emotionally invested though right?
Probably won’t read again but was worth being read once.
Shari does an incredible job of connecting you with characters and conveying their emotions.
Storyline wise -
The book took a completely different turn to what I was expecting. I started off thinking that Dee was a wonderful person and amazing friend and I couldn’t have been more wrong. All of the different reveals that came out through the story infuriated me (how could she begin an affair on her honeymoon?!?) and the final straw came with Pete. I actually cannot stand Dee’s character anymore and how her family and friends had her on such a pedestal.
Luke and Jen deserved a whole lot better and whilst I wasn’t massively keen on them getting together when I thought Dee was an angel I was happy with how the book ended.
There are lots of good moments in the book and I did enjoy it but I did find myself getting so mad at points I began having hot flushes!
I suppose you know an authors doing it well when you get so emotionally invested though right?
Probably won’t read again but was worth being read once.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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