A Breath Too Late

Review from Booklist Reviews:

This bittersweet and haunting novel begins with protagonist Ellie's suicide, following years of physical abuse dealt out by her father to Ellie and her mother. Ellie's consciousness remains after her death, and she sees the aftermath, the heartbreak and pain of her survivors. These survivors include her mother, who tried to protect her, and August, her best friend from childhood, whose love grew into more than friendship. As Ellie gathers memories both good and bad, she addresses her mother, August, her father, fear, depression, death, and life, sharing insights gleaned from the memories. Callen's character depictions are visceral. For example, in one scene, Ellie's abusive father talks to August. He seems sympathetic and notes that Ellie had seen August the day before she died, then casually wonders aloud whether August had something to do with Ellie's decision-but they would never know. The most important point made in the heartbreaking story is that there is nothing romantic about suicide. Ellie realizes that with her last breath, regretting her decision. Callen includes resources for suicide prevention and domestic abuse at the end.