After the intense and twisty "Like Sapphire Blue," I jumped straight into "Into the Blue Again," which shifts gears into a more introspective, emotionally layered story. Emma is released from prison early and begins the difficult process of rebuilding her life. This book is less about external conflict and more about healing, trauma, and the messy, nonlinear path to redemption.
A major focus is Emma’s relationship with Morgan, a woman she met while on the run in the first book. Their connection deepens through letters and Morgan’s handwritten journal, which Emma reads while incarcerated. Morgan’s story is deeply unsettling—she’s haunted by the ghost (or guilt) of her fiancé Jonathan, who died by suicide in a way designed to punish her emotionally. The ghost is cruel, manipulative, and clearly a manifestation of her unresolved trauma.
But Morgan’s past goes even deeper. She was part of a disturbing cult-like community where she was emotionally manipulated into marrying into a hetero couple. She was drawn to the wife, Sophie, but not the husband—who ultimately forces himself on her. This part of the story is handled with a raw, unflinching honesty that adds to the emotional gravity of the book.
Despite all this, Emma continues to show Morgan compassion and patience. She offers her multiple chances, even sending her airfare to help them reconnect. Their eventual reconciliation feels hard-won and emotionally satisfying, though the road there is anything but smooth.
This book is quieter than the first, but no less intense. It’s a deep dive into guilt, forgiveness, and the long shadows of trauma. If you’re already invested in Emma’s journey, this is a powerful continuation that rewards your emotional commitment.
REVIEW: Into the Blue Again by Marisa Billions
RATING: 3-stars
© Jennifer R Clark. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. You may share and adapt this content with proper attribution.
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