Review: The Space Between Us by Jessica Martinez

From the author of Virtuosity, a novel about two sisters and the secrets they tell, the secrets they keep—and the secret that could tear them apart.Amelia is used to being upstaged by her charismatic younger sister, Charly. She doesn’t mind, mostly, that it always falls to her to cover for Charly’s crazy, impulsive antics. But one night, Charly’s thoughtlessness goes way too far, and she lands both sisters in serious trouble.
 
Amelia’s not sure she can forgive Charly this time, and not sure she wants to . . . but forgiveness is beside the point. Because Charly is also hiding a terrible secret, and the truth just might tear them apart forever.

My Review:

The Space Between Us is an amazing book that I read quickly because I couldn't put it down.  I became invested in the story from the first page, falling in the love with both the story and the characters.  This book is also so emotional, and I loved that about it.  So, my advice to you is read this book!

POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD

Amelia is a great main character, though she has her flaws.  She clearly cares about Charly, despite being mad at her for a good portion of the book.  Her main flaw is that she is judgmental.  When she finds out Charly is pregnant, she immediately makes assumptions.  She says many mean and horrible things to Charly throughout the book.  Despite what I'm saying, I still did like her as a main character.  I could see why she was mad at Charly, even if I did sometimes want her to be more supportive.

Charly is a great character.  She's sweet and loveable, but she's also hiding a huge secret.  One of the most emotional scenes in the book is when Charly finally tells Amelia her secret.  The relationship between the sisters is showcased so well in that scene.  It's obvious that Amelia really cares about her sister then, and feels guilty for the bad things she's said.  Charly's and Amelia's characters both grow throughout the course of the book. 

Ezra is also a great character.  The relationship between Amelia and him doesn't start off too great.  He comes to pick up Amelia and Charly from the airport in Canada, and Amelia is pretty mean to him.  As the story progresses, Amelia and Ezra become friends, and she feels like they could maybe be more than friends.  Their relationship is so sweet and develops slowly and realistically.  He has his secrets about his family, but he's a great guy.  He helps Amelia to grow as a character.

If you like emotional contemporary YA, read this book.

Katie