A Sussex author’s new novel, blending heartfelt themes of earthly loss and the afterlife, has just hit bookshelves. ‘Apart’ by Jude Jacobs beautifully follows Amy, who is overwhelmed with grief after losing her boyfriend, James, unexpectedly.
As she searches for comfort, she turns to mediumship, hoping to connect with him beyond this life.
The story takes a heartfelt turn by showing James’s view from the afterworld, where a playful yet malfunctioning “celestial pain filter” leaves him feeling distressed and yearning for Amy.
Despite his efforts to reach out to her with God’s help, he’s hindered by a clumsy heavenly messaging system and an elderly psychic, which adds a charming layer of humor and hope.
Jude Jacobs, a resident of a cosy Sussex village, shared,
“Writing Apart has truly been a cathartic journey. It gave me the chance to imagine a world where hope persists—that our loved ones are safe and peaceful. While the story is fiction, the feelings of grief are very real.’
Driven by a wish to help Amy find healing, James even considers taking drastic steps, raising tender questions about whether divine help might sometimes cause unintended pain. Apart is available at your favourite bookstores and online shops like Amazon, inviting everyone to explore this touching blend of loss, hope, and the possibility of life after death.

