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Split Therapy

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She's scared – I get that. He really fucked her up. She used to be a pretty together girl. Now, she's one panic attack shy of a basket case. The only thing keeping her from going completely over the edge?

Me.

I am Jane's sweet revenge.

Jane is a shy college senior striving for invisibility as she struggles with PTSD. Jae is a pissed-off vigilante who stalks the night dispensing justice. Being the same person? A minor inconvenience. There are two sides to every story, but only one way it can end...

How far will the mind bend to keep itself safe?

Veronica Mars meets Fight Club in this fast-paced, NA psychological thriller novella.

CW: strong language, mild violence, non-explicit references to rape

Suggested Age Rating: 16+

164 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 4, 2021

2 people are currently reading
34 people want to read

About the author

E.P. Stavs

14 books112 followers
Author of romance and magic.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Kat.
Author 14 books604 followers
January 17, 2022
I loved SPLIT THERAPY by EP Stavs. I am already a huge fan of her YA Fantasy series and this fast-paced, gritty new adult offering set in the streets of Seattle where Jane/Jae is a vigilante fighting to avenge something terrible that was done to her as well as protect other vulnerable women? Yes, please!

Spoilers ahead…

Jane had something traumatic happen to her, and as a result, her stronger takes-no-prisoners alter ego Jae emerges to take control at times. I liked reading the contrast between the two (especially funny were some of the scenes where someone has previously met one ego and the ego who is not as dominant and is not aware of the existence of both was like, hey who are you? LOL. And SETH! I completely fangirled for this adorable cinnamon roll of a book boyfriend. When he was described as a Gilbert Blythe, that just sort of sealed it (can you tell I’ve read Anne of Green Gables way too many times?) I just loved how awesome and strong Jae/Jane was. I literally read this in one sitting and as soon as it was over, wished there was more.

Trigger Warnings:
Profile Image for M.E. Aster.
Author 4 books52 followers
July 29, 2022
Split Therapy is a new genre of story from Stavs who is already one of my favorite authors and now she’s solidified that fact!

This story was gritty, dark, sexy, and romantic all at once. Jae/Jane were both very likable characters and I instantly felt for them and wanted to know more about their story.

And Seth…wow where can I find a guy like Seth??? Seriously he’s such a good love interest why does he have to be fictional???

So I don’t want to say too much else in case I spoil anything but basically I adored this story. Stavs writes with her unique style that instantly draws you in and makes the book difficult to put down.

I highly recommend this book to any fans of new adult stories with a bit of a dark edge!

*I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
Profile Image for Kelly Miller.
Author 14 books432 followers
February 25, 2023
This is the story of Jane, who suffered a sexual assault years before. (This serves as a warning to anyone who might be triggered by scenes of violence.) The crime was never reported and the responsible person never charged. Even worse, the man is related to Jane by marriage. Jane's own mother, ignorant of the perpetrator's crime, thinks the man is a fine person! Jane is a shadow of her former self, living in fear, and not living a full life.

Jae is a strong, smart, and confident personality sharing Jane's body and acting as protector and avenger to Jane and other vulnerable women. But will Jae ultimately help Jane or lead to her doom? This story is expertly crafted without any dull moments from its start to its exciting end. I highly recommend Split Therapy!
Profile Image for Amanda.
Author 11 books37 followers
December 7, 2021
The First Rule of Fight Club is... I am womankind's SWEET REVENGE

When I say I could hardly put this book down once I started reading I mean I LITERALLY COULD HARDLY PUT THIS BOOK DOWN! I loved Jae's badassery in contrast to Jane's quietness and the story of just how much trauma can affect your psyche. I loved the revenge aspect and the whole Fight Clubesq plot.
Profile Image for Casie Aufenthie.
Author 4 books51 followers
December 13, 2021
Split Therapy is a somewhat dark tale of a victim’s path to recovery through revenge, and this book had me hooked from the very first chapter—I devoured it within days, which doesn’t happen anymore with my hectic life, so that’s saying something. There was an incredible balance of action, intrigue, and healthy romance. I was even surprised (and delighted) to find moments of humor as well. Stavs has an incredible gift for crafting a riveting tale full of fleshed-out characters.

The story follows Jane, who after suffering an assault by her step-brother, develops an alter-ego named Jae. While each chapter is labeled, distinguishing the personality currently driving, it’s not necessary because the author has created completely different voices for them. Jane is quiet and shy and full of paralyzing anxiety, and I wanted to wrap her in a hug. Jae is a badass who doesn’t take anything from anybody, and I want to be her friend.

I also want to be friends with the love interest, Seth, who sees who Jane really is long before even she does, and he stays by her side through thick and thin. He is understanding and sweet but also tough in his own right, and I adore him.

I adored this book. Dark but not too dark. Some spicy romance but not crossing the line. Believable action and intrigue. Characters to root for on an important journey that far too many women have dealt with in reality. I can’t recommend it enough. Stop reading this review and go read Split Therapy. You won’t regret it.
Profile Image for Cara Devlin.
Author 37 books426 followers
November 13, 2021
OK, now this is a book that I could NOT put down! Jae and Jane are the same person, but Jae has emerged as Jane's split personality in order to be Jane's protector and vigilante of sorts after Jane was assaulted by her stepbrother years ago. There is nothing easy or light about this premise, but it's so engaging and well done that I just gobbled it up. Also, it's a pretty short read, which I'm all about these days. It looks like it's the beginning of a new series, so I'm excited about that too!
Profile Image for Allison.
Author 6 books161 followers
November 4, 2021
SPLIT THERAPY gets in your head, in the best way possible. This is a vigilante story unlike any I've encountered, mixed with an unexpected love triangle, with throwback vibes to Jem, Jerica, & Rio, except the love interest is a delicious, Gilbert Blythe-inspired cinnamon roll. He's not put off by the hot-and-cold reception he gets, becoming instead the Clyde to her Bonnie, and helps her bring a satisfying serving of retributive justice to an extremely punchable villain. Bingeable, with a bang. I need the next one, stat.
Profile Image for Charlotte Taylor.
Author 9 books22 followers
November 4, 2021
Well ... what can I say? This was certainly very different from Stavs' Shendri series (which I absolutely adore), but it shows just what a diverse writer she is. From the get-go you are intrigued as to how Jae and Jane are truly related and how this story boils down to a traumatised girl trying to survive as best she can, but little does she know that she's kicking some ass while she's at it! The antagonist is easy to dislike intensely, and as a reader you hope with every fibre of your being that he gets what he deserves. And then we have Seth ... lovely Seth who is accepting and loving and everything that you hope for in a good love interest. Stavs develops these characters so well, and I love that while Jane is falling apart, Jae is trying desperately hard to hold her together. You can't help but become attached and invested. Well done, Stavs! This is definitely a page-turner!
Profile Image for Hayley Chow.
Author 12 books135 followers
October 2, 2021
So I started reading Split Therapy after my last two book had endings that kind of left me unsatisfied, and I was a little worried about an impending reading slump. But this book was such a breath of fresh air!

I really enjoyed EP Stavs' Shendri Series, so when I saw the chance to get an ARC of her thriller novella, I just couldn't help myself! Split Therapy follows sweet college student Jane as she tries to carry on with life after a traumatic incident. Meanwhile, her vigilante alter ego, Jae, roams the night finding a different way to come to terms with the incident.

First of all, I just love EP Stavs' writing style. It is sharp and snappy but still paints the clearest picture of the action. Her banter is always on point, and she always manages to paint the most loveable characters that are so easy to connect with. I read this book in one enjoyable evening, totally drinking in the building tension and the sweet love interest, and I put it down feeling ready for another!

I totally recommend to anyone looking for a fun thriller to get lost in (that doesn't mind adult themes and language) and can't wait to see what Stavs writes next!
Profile Image for Tanweer Dar.
Author 22 books53 followers
April 28, 2022
Wow!

This has to be one of the best, and most exciting, thrillers I have ever read!

'Split Therapy' takes the powerful concept of split personality and marries it to abuse and trauma. What results is a powerful page-turner that is packed full of action, emotion and supreme satisfaction.

This has become one of my favourite ever books. Absolutely outstanding, and so well-written too with a style and panache which infuses wit and humour into a story so full of danger and darkness.

Truly phenomenal read.
Profile Image for Hayley M. Mills.
Author 3 books60 followers
October 19, 2021
I am always thrilled to participate in ARC reviews, and having the opportunity to read Split-Therapy for E.P. Stavs was a pleasure.
I like to go in blind — never reading the back cover blurb, so the content is always a surprise. I was already intrigued by the cover and title, and I wasn't disappointed.
Some minds find a unique way of surviving trauma. Split-Therapy is a creative take on a complex mental health disorder that I enjoyed in its entertaining style, and was happy it wasn't overly clinical.
We follow the story of our MC Jane on her journey of Revenge and self Discovery. I rooted for her all the way through.
The characters throughout were well formed and relatable, despite the unusual challenges.
It was nice to see the relationships emerge and grow between the supporting characters.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed E.P. Stavs' style of writing and wouldn't hesitate to recommend putting Split-Therapy on your Christmas wish list.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Darren Boeck.
Author 8 books93 followers
September 21, 2021
Boom! I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book from the author E.P Stavs and let me say she has shown herself to be a multi-talented author. This book is a departure from her Shendri series but well crafted. Stavs sets us up for a different storyline where our heroine has developed a split personality after experiencing the unfathomable. I was initially afraid the author would bring me down the path of Jane’s abuse with too much detail, but gratefully Stavs is a master of her craft. She provides enough details that we know what happened without giving me the entire visual experience. We have everything we need to know, which makes Jane/Jae become a real person that is easy to understand. The motivations and storyline are right on point. If slightly darker than her other series, this is a great story and well worth the read. Tragically, this story is likely too close to reality at times, giving us a glimpse into the underworld of devious men intent on satisfying their sexual satisfactions without regard for those they abuse or hurt. Bravo, E.P. Stavs, you are indeed an author worth reading.
Profile Image for Michele Quirke.
Author 2 books137 followers
August 20, 2021
As a HUGE fan of E.P. Stavs, I was super excited to get my hands on an ARC of her new novella, Split Therapy. I loved her YA fantasy series, but she definitely branched out into a new genre with this particular book. And wow, I'm amazed. Perfection has been reached, people!

~Potential spoilers below~

Split Therapy was dark, gritty, and riveting! It's definitely an adult book with adult themes and language. In this action-packed and intense novella, we follow the story of Jane. After a traumatic event involving her wretched troll of a stepbrother, her brain splits and her second personality, Jae, is born. Jae's sole purpose is to protect her shy, terrified alter-ego and seek vengeance against the horrible men in the Seattle area. However, things get complicated when Jae meets and hits it off with a handsome, curly-haired man named Seth. By the way, Seth is AMAZING!

I really don't want to go into any more than that because you should totally read Split Therapy for yourself. That said, I absolutely LOVED the stark differences between Jane and Jae. Stavs does a fantastic job of letting us know whose POV we are in, but it's really not even necessary because of how well she developed the two characters. Well, one character, but you know what I mean. The character development in this really is spot on, which is quite a feat considering Split Therapy is a novella and not a full-length novel.

Also, I should mention that I read this in one night. I was glued to the pages and didn't want to put it down! I just needed to know what would happen between Jane, Jae, and Seth. Again, I loved Seth so much! And the awesome reference to Gilbert Blythe was VERY much appreciated!

Anyway, I should wrap this up because I could go on and on about how much I enjoyed this novella and really, why read my words when you could read Split Therapy for yourself?

5/5 Stars!!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Holland.
Author 11 books105 followers
November 14, 2021
Split Therapy has been one of the best books I've read this year. It's hard to review this book without giving away too many spoilers. I just want to rave about it all. The characters are all wonderfully developed, likeable, and often relatable. Their emotions spring from the page and have you wanting to stand up for them. I love the way the story unravels, personalities are developed, and justice is served. I've read Stavs' Shendri Series and her writing is simply wonderful. I found myself instantly lost in the story and furiously flicking pages. Her writing just carries you into the story and leaves you unable to put the book down.

Excited to read more from this incredibly talented author!
Profile Image for Sara.
208 reviews5 followers
October 6, 2021
This book is very well written. I love what a badass Jae is and how she is out to seek justice and protect others against sadistic men. I love how Jane is your casual girl, who is an average college student and artist. The way Jae comes out at night to do some harm makes her a superhero. There is great character development with both Jae and Jane. The story line is very well done. You really get an understanding as to why this book is called Split Therapy. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for McKenzie Austin.
Author 9 books44 followers
April 29, 2022
I didn't think anyone could portray the split personality dynamic as well as it's handled in Moon Knight, but E.P. Stavs handles it so masterfully, I often forgot that Jane/Jae were essentially the same person ... and yet, they still remained so undeniably intertwined.

This is next-level characterisation locked in a timeless battle so sadly relevant to the modern world. Women are taken advantage of every day, every hour, every minute, and reading Split Therapy made me wish there were more Jane/Jae's in the world to be the vigilante justice we need. (And Seth? F*cking adorable.)

Will definitely read more from this author!
Profile Image for Beth.
191 reviews30 followers
April 25, 2022
Intense and so compelling. This one kept me turning the pages!
43 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2021
(NOTE: E. P. Stavs gave me a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. As a result, some details in this review may vary compared to the release version.)
Admittedly, I had never delved much into thriller stories prior to reading this; as much as they were interesting like mystery novels, I figured they couldn't be quite as engaging quite a good adventure story or romance.

Suffice to say, Stavs's most recent work has done more than enough to change my opinion!

An awesome tale of dealing with alter-egos, Split Therapy will grip the reader like never before with mature themes in a dark, gritty underground world. The characters were excellently written, each of them make a wonderful blend of innocent bystanders and nefarious villains, and Jane, the protagonist? Awesome, nothing more to say, and as for the antagonist? Well... my first time physically trembling at how hateable they are should give a good idea to how well they're written! Each of the environments were really well defined too; they were practically popping out in my mind! And do I even need to say how good the drama and revelations are? This IS a Stavs novel (or in this case, a novella) after all!

Although this story gets a lot right, there are some parts I feel could do with a little improvement. Occasionally the story can tend to... lurch forward? It doesn't happen often but it was a little bit strange to go from one scene immediately to the next with little to no transition. Some other characters, I feel could've been utilized a little more, but it hardly detracts from the experience at all. Regardless, it was super liberating to read another great n' gritty story and if this ever got a sequel, I would no doubt dive into that as well!
Profile Image for Laken Honeycutt.
Author 3 books26 followers
October 6, 2021
I was given an ARC version of Split Therapy in exchange for a fair review.

E.P. Stavs is proof that genre swapping can be done and done well; testament to her stellar storytelling abilities. I’ve read every fantasy novel published by Stavs--her entire Shendri Series--and so when I was offered an opportunity to read her latest novel, I jumped at it and this psychological thriller delivers. It is awesome. Well-crafted characters and a visceral setting kept me glued to this story and wanting more.

Jane’s world is nice, it’s cozy, it’s pleasant to step into and then we realize something is not quite right. There’s a trauma that’s happened, something unresolved, that threatens to shatter Jane’s world. The stakes were high, and this pulled me right in. I cared about what happened to these characters.

I loved being in the world that was Jae and Jane. Jane is so relatable. She is character who feels like an everyday friend. Someone you would grab a coffee with or text about your day. And then there’s Jae, who does the things you wish you had the courage to do. The things you daydream about doing. She's fearless, righteous, and a total badass.

Overall, this is an excellent read and I highly recommend it. If you’re a fantasy reader worried about venturing into new territory, don’t miss out on this! Stavs’ fantastic storytelling ability shines through and it’s well worth the read.
Profile Image for Adrianne Lemke.
Author 18 books60 followers
August 3, 2022
Wow

I very much enjoyed this book. I love how much Seth is willing to do to help Jae\Jane, and how his own personality can adjust as needed, depending on what's happening. Also, I absolutely hate Kit. Just saying.
Profile Image for Sarah Maxwell.
Author 3 books53 followers
July 9, 2022
Fast-paced read. Awesome, kick-ass protagonist and a very cute romance. I was instantly drawn in to the story and read the book over a couple of nights. There's a lot to love about 'Split Therapy' and a character to make you seethe with loathing. Excellent! Highly recommend.
130 reviews4 followers
December 2, 2021
Intense ride!

I was hooked from the beginning and I didn't want to put the book down. As dark as the premise was, the ending was so satisfying. I loved the ride from beginning to end!

If you like dark and gritty thrillers, this is a book for you. Be sure to check the trigger warnings though!

Profile Image for Caroline Noe.
Author 9 books80 followers
May 3, 2022
Following the trauma of sexual assault, a young woman's psyche splits into two distinct personalities: the terrified, shut down Jane and the vengeful, confident Jae. The arrival of an unexpected ally means her attacker might just get what he deserves.

A quick paced, unusual read with a great thriller premise, handled sensitively. Both incarnations of Jane are compelling and the sudden appearance of Seth intriguing. Personally I was waiting for one final twist, but that's more my personality as a reader than a criticism of the narrative.
Profile Image for Jacob Klop.
Author 8 books68 followers
April 22, 2022
An entertaining read. The writing is good. The characters have some great dialogue, especially Jae. The over-all plot is solid, though a bit predictable. I'd recommend Split Therapy for readers into thrillers/action with a touch of romance.


Profile Image for Eve Koguce.
Author 6 books396 followers
August 21, 2023
Jane is a shy college student you won’t meet in the city dancing away until dawn. Jae is a bar scene regular. Jane would rather run a few extra miles at her morning run than talk to a man. Jae does everything to attract male attention. They are opposites and still, have a lot in common. In fact, they are the same person.

“Split Therapy” by E.P. Stavs is an exciting exploration of the coping mechanisms our psyche can come up with at times of crisis. Having fallen victim to a person who was supposed to be protective and not abusive, Jane shuts off from the world, trying to cope with the consequences of the traumatic event. Still, subconsciously she knows that hiding won’t help. Unable to deal with trauma the ordinary way, Jane’s personality splits and her other self starts to act as a vigilante, punishing men who mistreat women. The book opens with a scene of such punishment, and some might find it unsettling.

While reading, I was thinking about the motives behind Jane’s abuser’s behaviour. It is always hard for me to accept that a person is simply rotten and doesn’t need any additional motivation except for their sociopathic nature to want to hurt another human being.

I think that “Split Therapy” would make an excellent TV series. It is stylish and fast-paced, with edgy characters whose adventures viewers would love to follow. I can visualise an actress playing Jane/Jae, changed completely by makeup and drastically different dressing styles. The whole setting is cinematic, as are the minor characters. The romantic plot line adds a sweet note to the story, blending harmoniously into the main character’s journey to revenge and healing.
Profile Image for Cat Bowser.
Author 6 books43 followers
January 21, 2024
Wonderfully moving tale of empowerment

I love anything by this author so I went in, knowing I’d love this in some fashion. I was not prepared for how much I’d love it.

First off, credit where credit is due: DID is hard to get right because we are still learning so much about it. Stavs is careful to avoid the stereotypes and instead shows she did her research on how it works and how it presents. Lovely to see!

Jane is an intriguing protagonist, in all forms. You can see how her past has impacted her, how she used to be but also the strong woman she is capable of becoming. When she starts to finally find supports that believe in her, you’re so thrilled for her.

An utter thrill ride of a book with an inspiring message about finding the strength within yourself by leaning on others. 5 ⭐️
Profile Image for Helena Craggs.
Author 6 books115 followers
October 10, 2021
Split Therapy is definitely a page-turner; I was hooked.

I was delighted to receive an ARC of this brilliant psychological thriller. It's dark, gritty and sexy. I love Stavs' writing style, from the well created characters and snappy dialogue to the realistic and brilliantly written action. Sweet Jane and her badass alter-ego, Jae, are relatable and superbly developed. However, I was worried that the antagonist (who I desperately wanted to throttle) would not suffer the consequences he deserved. The plot is twisty and clever, and this book took me one evening to read. And, Seth? Seth is awesome. A great book Ms Stavs!
If you love an entertaining, gritty psychological thriller, then this is a must-read.
Profile Image for S.S..
Author 1 book13 followers
October 11, 2024
This is a true turn pager! The book Saving Jane (previously titled Split Therapy) is an exciting story filled with suspenseful twists and thrilling action. I was thoroughly impressed with the quality of the writing in this book, which expertly combines romance and suspense in a way that feels fresh and original. The writing style, plot, and characters blend together perfectly. Right from the start, the author hooks you into the story and it is difficult to stop reading. You are there, with characters in both: place and mind.

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling, well-crafted story.
Profile Image for Andrea.
814 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2022
Jane develops dissociative identity disorder after she is attacked by her stepbrother,Kit. Her newly remarried mother knows nothing of the attack because Jane doesn’t want to wreck her newfound happiness, but as she suffers in silence and isolation, her alternate persona, Jae, plots revenge. The two also meet a wonderful guy, Seth, who is understanding and sympathetic and supportive of the revenge scheme. This somewhat unlikely story is entertaining and has a satisfying ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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