LOST SOMETHING?

No. reviewers 49K+
Rating 4.5 - 4.8
90%+ rated 4 or 5 stars

The In-Between is a deeply poignant and personal exploration of the experiences Hadley Vlahos, a hospice nurse, has had with patients as they approach the end of their lives. Drawing from real-life encounters, Vlahos reflects on the lessons her patients have taught her about life, death, and what it means to truly live. Over her years as a nurse, she has witnessed countless unexplainable phenomena—such as moments of clarity, visions, and encounters with deceased loved ones—that have led her to believe in an "in-between" state between life and death.

The book combines personal anecdotes, the wisdom gained from her work, and insights into the emotional and spiritual aspects of dying, offering readers a profound look into a subject that is often avoided. Through the stories of those nearing death, the memoir encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the fleeting nature of time.

What reviewers loved

Emotional and Heartfelt: Many readers were moved by Vlahos’ raw, honest, and empathetic writing. Her reflections on the final days of life were described as deeply emotional, providing readers with a tender exploration of human vulnerability and the complexities of mortality.

Inspiring Wisdom: The book’s ability to offer meaningful lessons on living a fulfilled life stood out for many. Reviewers appreciated the practical wisdom gleaned from Vlahos’ hospice work, particularly her insights into what truly matters as we approach the end of our lives.

Perspective on Life and Death: Readers found Vlahos' personal experience as a hospice nurse provided a unique, intimate perspective on death. Many appreciated how the book made them reconsider their own priorities and helped them face mortality with greater peace and understanding.

Compassionate Writing: The kindness and compassion Vlahos displayed towards her patients were frequently praised. Her writing conveyed a deep sense of care, offering a comforting tone that resonated with those experiencing grief or contemplating loss.

Thought-Provoking Themes: The book tackled complex and often uncomfortable themes—such as fear of death, unfinished lives, and regrets—with sensitivity and depth. Readers found themselves reflecting on their own lives and the choices they’ve made.

Transformation of Views on Care: Many readers highlighted Vlahos' transformation from being an emergency nurse to a hospice nurse, and how it reshaped her view of care. As an emergency nurse, her focus was on life-saving, invasive treatments. However, as a hospice nurse, she learned that care is not just about treatments, but about providing patients with quality of life and dignity in their final days. 

Spiritual and Philosophical Insights: The reflections on spirituality and the search for meaning in the face of death were praised for their depth and clarity. The book encouraged readers to think beyond the physical aspects of life and death, contemplating the bigger questions of existence.
 
Deviating from Core Themes: Some readers expected The In-Between to provide more insights into the process of dying and the "in-between" state, but felt that much of the book focused on Vlahos' own life story instead. This shift led some readers to feel that the book wasn’t as focused on the core theme of the dying process as they had hoped.

Overemphasis on Supernatural Experiences: A number of readers found the supernatural elements in the book excessive. While Vlahos details multiple instances where patients encountered spiritual phenomena before death, some felt that these occurrences were too frequent and forced the book to veer into the territory of the unbelievable. Readers questioned the authenticity of these experiences.

Unfavourable Views on Other Nurses: A recurring critique was the portrayal of Vlahos as an overly sweet, kind, and perfect character. Some readers felt that she idealised her own actions as a nurse while painting her colleagues in a less favourable light.