Once close childhood friends, James and Ivy naturally grew apart after Ivy was forced to move across the country. Over the years, they both led very different lifestyles; James lived a traditional life while Ivy's life spiraled out of control even further after she was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). When they finally reunite, James and Ivy realize that they have become very different people. After years apart, the commonalities which once made them best friends, no longer exist. After noticing Ivy’s erratic behavior and unhealthy coping skills, James tries to help Ivy get the support she needs. In the process, both of them are required to face the challenges of their past. Life tore them apart. Fate brought them together. Enter the archives of the lost library. You never know what you may find.
I received a free copy of Jacob Lasher's The Lost Library in exchange for an honest review. Lasher's second work of fiction is something that will make a lasting impression. I enjoyed the two narrative's of Ivy and James, sometimes changing perspectives in the middle of a scene to really capture both character's thoughts.
Mental health is a delicate subject matter. One that needs to be handled carefully and Lasher does just that.
From beginning to end, The Lost Library is captivating and even funny at times. I rarely find myself wishing a book was longer, so that should clarify how I enjoyed this novel. With the James backstory, I feel it possibly could've been fleshed out more, meanwhile, I felt like I knew him personally at the same time.
James is currently in a rut, unsure of his future. Ivy has been battling her past for years. It was intriguing to watch the two go through their tumultuous relationship. Ivy was frustrating at times, but I believe that was the intention. You were supposed to be wanting to shake her and wake her up.
Lasher's writing style is unique and seems to be a reoccurring method of storytelling for him, but luckily it's easy reading on a hard-hitting subject.
I've read his other works and I will continue to do so as long as he keeps putting out new books.
If this book gets into the right hands, it could actually change lives. Informative and eye-opening.