Between Life and Death

Between Life and Death Series, Book 1

By: Jaclyn Kot

Narrated by: Nikki Grey, Connor Brannigan

"His eyes returned to mine, that invisible tether between us strung too tight. That magnetic pull, it was unbreakable, unyielding. Eternal. And it demanded that we collide."

On the secluded continent of Edenvale, possessing magic is a death sentence. Those who have it are labeled Cursed, and by order of the king, they are Cleansed—a horrific event utilizing a hot, hungry pyre and an iron collar. Enemy to the king, a group known as the Cursed rebels defend their lands from his reach, creating an ongoing bloodthirsty war.

When Sage's brother is conscripted for the war, she is forced to trade in her cozy, peaceful cottage life and join the Cursed rebels to get him back. Her mission seems straightforward, but Von, the leader of the Cursed rebels, comes riddled with dark secrets. With his otherworldly eyes, black as a starless night, and a taste for juicy thigh—ahem—red apples, Sage knows better than to get involved with a guy like him. But knowing and doing are two very different things.

Together with the Cursed rebels and Von, the king of inky deals and sexy, stolen moments, Sage embarks on the quest of a lifetime. Little does she know that fate is at work and the gods are watching her every move.

Between Life and Death is for ACOTAR fans looking to scratch that insatiable itch.

©2023 Jaclyn Kot (P)2023 Podium Audio

Loved this story! I even cried.

Such a good read, worth using my last two credits on. Love the story of the gods.

Good, but

I enjoyed this book, however without giving anything away, there are so many moments when the FL gets told or witnesses something and instead of questioning it, she kinda just excepts it. Which leaves the readers with so many unanswered questions and confusion.

Loooove

Finally!!! A hades and Persephone inspired love story where you can FEEEEEL the depth of his love! In a dark and fabulous way- without being corny or some lackluster character development!!! Absolutely loved Von. His character is one of my fave MMCs recently… and the things he says 🔥🔥🔥 YES PLEASE lol
And both narrators killed it.

Making myself wait to read book 2 (waiting for the audiobook to come out Instead of just going in KU to read it lol)
Great job!!!

Very good

Honestly, I see a lot of comments about how it’s not “ elaborate, or detailed “ honestly I loved this book, I think it had just enough of everything. It’s her and his story, so when there wasn’t a lot of world building I wasn’t upset. I have a feeling we we get soooo much more in book two. I loved this read, perfect if you’re looking for something easy and fun.

Wonderful Listen

✔️duet narration - wonderfully done btw!
✔️ excellent storyline
✔️ cursed elements?? Count me in!

I absolutely loved everything about this listen! The narrators did a spectacular job throwing their voices to help differentiate the characters that were talking! Please note: this is not a massive SMUT book. The hints that were added, added dimensions to the characters!

Cannot wait to listen to book 2!

Fun listen!

This was a fun, unique read. Starting out with the cursed being burned on a pyre was definitely a great way to pull you right into the story!

Read this if you like...
Shadow magic
Crow shifters
A unique magic system (that you learn along the way)
And a batty mother figure

Just a good time all around

A fun balance of action and romance with a good amount of build up. Zero surprises here.

Well hello Von

Well hello Von.

Once I started this book, I was pulled into it and couldn't put it down. I love the take on how their unique gifts were considered curses- something to be feared.

Sage has such a big heart. She has so much determination. The chemistry between her and Von. *chef's kiss*. Their banter.

Von- yes! everything that Von is. His descriptions and the words that he said. yes. Do yourself a favor a meet him. Because his words, his shoulders and his arms... iykyk.

I listened to the audiobook. I love when book are recorded with duet narrations! Nikki and Connor both did an amazing job. And man, Connor voicing Von. I'm melting.

Fantastic Performance and Story

This was my second listen. I love Sage and her fierceness but yet she’s also very caring and doesn’t succumb to the hard upbringing she endured. She knows she’s different but she’s okay with it. But the star of this book, for me, is Vaughn. *swoon* I love his banter, how he doted on Sage, his patience. On top of these two characters the world building and magic building is great. So entrancing. I am about to go and dive in to book two now!

Excellent!!!

Tropes:
⭐ Morally Black Shadow Daddy
⭐ Stabby Hero FMC
⭐ Gods with Vampire Tendencies
⭐ Enemies to Lovers
⭐ Touch her and 💀
⭐ Fated Mates
⭐ Found Family
⭐ Hidden Identity
⭐ "Kitten" pet name

"Between Life and Death" by Jaclyn Kot is a captivating fantasy romance set in a world where being born with magic (or 'cursed') is a crime punishable by death. The vicious king's decree mandates the cleansing of those with magical abilities, subjecting them to a gruesome fate via pyres and iron collars to block said magic. In the face of this tyrannical rule, a group of rebels known as the Cursed stands defiant. Sage, one of the cursed, finds the rebellion when her brother is conscripted for the war. She is compelled to abandon her peaceful life and join the Cursed rebels to rescue him. The mission, seemingly straightforward, takes an unexpected turn as Sage encounters Von, the enigmatic leader of the rebels, whose dark secrets and otherworldly presence make him both intriguing and dangerous. There is a pull between them that just won't leave her alone.

This is the perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. I have to admit that the romance is the best part. Sage and Von's chemistry is palpable, adding a layer of tension and passion to every scene they're in together. The secondary characters are also easy to like and I eagerly anticipate the potential development of them in the next book.

Kot's world-building is commendable, revealing a rich tapestry of history and intrigue lurking in the background. The information about these mysterious rebels and Von slowly trickles out as Sage learns more. The plot's twists and turns kept me engaged and eager for more. The seamless blend of romance and fantasy elements, coupled with well-drawn characters, makes "Between Life and Death" a delightful and immersive read. I cried, and that's the highest recommendation that I can make because it means that I care deeply about these characters.

I am quite eagerly anticipating the next installment to delve deeper into the captivating world Kot has crafted. I am sure that I will devour the next as quickly as I did this one. I do want to note that I also purchased the audiobook and DEEPLY enjoyed the dual narration. Highly recommend the audio; the narrators are top-notch.