Between, Georgia

by: Joshilyn Jackson

Published by: Warner Books

Reviewed by Pattie Reit

Between, Georgia is Joshilyn Jackson's second novel, following her very successful first novel gods in Alabama. It's a wonderfully complex and engaging story

Nonny Frett is a sign language interpreter living in Athens, Georgia. She was adopted and raised in the town of Between, Georgia, by Stacia Frett, a deaf sculptor who has also gradually lost her sight. Stacia's twin sister Genny and their sister Bernise also raised her in their tightly-knit family. Yet Nonny's family heritage also includes the Crabtrees, who know they are her blood relations and have never forgotten it.

Through a series of bad-to-worse incidents, Nonny finds herself at a crossroads between the Fretts and the Crabtrees; between her childhood best friend Henry and her soon-to-be-ex-husband Jonno; between her mother and her aunt Bernise; and between her past and her future.

With relatives around every corner and across the town square, and her heart divided and confused, Nonny must make the choices that will not only make her happy, but also set things right with the loved ones in her life.

Between becomes more than just Nonny's hometown. It becomes the center of Nonny's dualities and the place where she finally comes to terms with everything and finds her direction in life.

Joshilyn Jackson's character-driven novel is full of realistic, flawed, loveable, love-to-hate-able, fabulous multi-dimensional characters with endearing Southern quirks and foibles.

Armchair Interviews says: Do yourself a favor and get this book, and while you're at it, pick up gods in Alabama in paperback.