Prue embarks on a long overdue fresh start at what feels like the beginning of the rest of her life. Before she can even take her first steps into this new life, reality takes a swing at her newfound peace, with the loss of someone larger than life.
As Prue struggles to find her way, now feeling far more lost than found, she seeks consolation in a support group, where she meets other hurt souls, including prickly Devon and a battered Gus. Upon this random encounter, the three suddenly learn of their newfound magical powers as the power of three.
Now that Prue, Devon, and Gus have been thrown together by circumstance, it is up to them what they choose to do next. Prue, still grappling with her heartbreak, Devon, infuriated over the injustices of those chosen to protect and serve, and Gus, ten years into running from his demons, must find a way to look beyond themselves and see the bigger picture.
Can the three of them band together to turn back time and save their loved ones? Can the three of them work together to save themselves?
Grieving Still is a story that feels honest and real about how hard it can be to move on after losing someone you love. It’s about the ups and downs of grief, and how sometimes, life throws us surprises when we least expect them. The main character, Prue, is trying to start fresh, hoping that this new chapter will bring her peace. But before she can even take her first step into this new life, tragedy strikes again—someone she cared about deeply is gone, and she finds herself feeling even more lost than before.
What really stands out is how the book doesn’t try to make grief seem simple or easy. It shows how complicated and messy it can be, and that’s what makes it so relatable. Prue’s journey isn’t straightforward. She’s hurting, confused, and unsure of what comes next. Yet, even in her sadness, there’s a quiet strength in her willingness to keep going. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t a quick process, and sometimes, we just have to take things one day at a time.
The author writes in a way that feels natural and caring. The story is built around moments of reflection and connection, making it easy to get drawn in. The way the story unfolds—starting with Prue’s tentative steps into her new life, then introducing the other characters she meets in a support group—feels very real. These characters, like Devon and Gus, each carry their own pain and stories, and through their interactions, the story explores themes of empathy and understanding.
One of the most interesting parts is when these characters discover they have magical powers—something that adds a bit of wonder and metaphorical meaning to their struggles. The magic isn’t just about special abilities; it’s about finding strength and hope in unexpected places. It’s about realizing we’re stronger than we think, especially when we’re not alone. The way the author blends this mystical element with emotional stories makes the book feel fresh and meaningful.
The tone is kind and respectful, never rushing to fix everything or giving easy answers. Instead, it shows that sometimes, the hardest things in life are also the things that teach us the most. The characters’ conversations and struggles feel genuine, making their growth and friendship feel natural. It’s a story about how even in our worst moments, there’s potential for connection, kindness, and maybe even a little bit of magic.
What’s really beautiful about this book is how it acknowledges the pain of loss but also highlights the importance of hope and community. It’s about learning to carry your grief while still finding reasons to smile and keep going. It’s about realizing that even when life feels unfair and overwhelming, there’s still room for new beginnings.
Grieving Still isn’t a story that tries to sugarcoat sadness or pretend everything will be okay overnight. Instead, it gently shows that healing takes time, and sometimes, it’s the small, quiet moments of connection that help us find our way back. It’s a heartfelt story that reminds us all that even in the darkest times, we’re not alone—and that hope can sometimes shine through the cracks when we least expect it.
A Thoughtful Blend of Grief and Sci Fi Possibility
This is a good science fiction story that stands out more for its emotional core than just its concept. While it has elements of time manipulation and supernatural abilities, it really focuses on how people deal with loss, regret, and second chances. Prue is an easy character to connect with, especially as her fresh start is immediately disrupted by grief. Her journey feels grounded, even as the story begins to introduce more fantastical elements. Devon and Gus add a nice balance to the trio, each bringing their own struggles and perspectives, which makes their dynamic feel meaningful rather than just convenient. The idea of the three of them discovering their powers together works well, especially as it ties into their shared pain and desire to fix what they’ve lost. The “power of three” concept gives the story a strong foundation, and watching them learn to work together adds both tension and growth. What I appreciated most is how the sci fi elements don’t overshadow the characters. The possibility of turning back time raises interesting questions, but the story doesn’t ignore the emotional consequences that would come with that kind of power. At times, I wished the world building and rules around their abilities were explored a bit more deeply, but the character driven focus helps make up for it. Overall, it’s an engaging and heartfelt science fiction story that mixes grief, connection, and the idea of rewriting the past into something both thoughtful and entertaining.
Grieving Still: Finding the Other Side is much more than a story about loss. It seamlessly blends fantasy, magical powers, time travel, and LGBTQ+ representation with a moving exploration of grief, identity, and the lived experiences of Black Americans. What could have felt like an ambitious mix instead comes together in a story with genuine heart.
The characters are easy to invest in, each carrying their own emotional burdens while discovering unexpected strengths. I especially appreciated how the supernatural elements weren't there simply for spectacle. They deepened the story's themes of healing, justice, and second chances.
This is a novel that entertains while also encouraging reflection.
This book mixes magic, memory, and grief in a way that really surprised me. The story shifts between supernatural events and personal memories, especially when it comes to Gus and his loss of his brother. Lines like “Gussy, you’re never going to beat my jump” during the diving scenes give the story a strong emotional center that stays with you. The fantasy side of the story comes in through Prue and the unusual magic around the Book of Spirits Past. When she casts the spell, “Sharing with you what’s mine… we exchange our powers before our time,” the scene with the glowing orbs feels both eerie and powerful. What stood out most to me is how the book links its supernatural story to real-world pain and social issues. Moments that say “killing unarmed Black men is an epidemic” make the story feel grounded and real. It’s a unique mix of urban fantasy, grief, and social reflection, and that blend makes the story feel thoughtful and emotional.
Grieving Still by Pamuela Halliwell is a well written, provocative tale of transformation that will resonate with anyone who has struggled to navigate the complexities of losing someone dear to them. But it’s less a guidebook than a fantastical adventure story peppered with what for me were novel twists on themes of sexual desire and metaphysical possibilities. The voice was authentic, in turns raw and tender, with heartfelt storytelling that kept me engaged and turning the pages from start to finish. Highly recommended.
Emotionally layered... This is a contemporary story that mixes paranormal romance with emotion. It also weaves in elements of grief, healing through fantasy, and supernatural discoveries, creating a unique combination of real and fantasy emotional experience. Though I found myself tearful at times, the story is still uplifting, with its magical elements and the close bond among the three characters adding hope and warmth amid the grief... This is an emotionally layered story that I wouldn't mind reading again.
A deeply moving and compassionate exploration of loss, healing, and the quiet resilience of the human spirit. This book doesn’t rush grief or try to neatly package it — instead, it honors the raw, complicated emotions that come with it. Recommended for anyone navigating loss or seeking understanding and quiet encouragement on the path forward.
This book really touched me. It handles grief with honesty and compassion, without rushing the healing process. Prue’s journey felt very real, and I appreciated how the story allowed space for anger, confusion, and hope to exist together. A meaningful and comforting read.