Frank MacBride is a family man. He does his best to provide for and protect those he loves. When his past catches up with him, he has to make the choice between running from it or facing up to it. Unfortunately for Frank, life is anything but easy at a time when the wrong decision could cost him and his family their lives; his marriage is going through a rough patch and his young son begins disappearing at nights. Where does Sam go and what does he do when he should be safely asleep in bed? Does Sam's inability to speak point to something more mysterious than Frank and his wife Sofia are capable of understanding? Different by Datta Groover takes a speculative look at the complexity of human relationships and the philosophical concept of the afterlife.

Different is one of those novels that are difficult to put down, and whose characters are painful to say good bye to. The combination of suspense and the emotions of anger and affection inspired in me by the characters made me want the book to go on indefinitely. There was nothing I didn't enjoy in this well-edited and fast-paced novel. Both Sofia's and Frank's characters are flawed but loving, their children are engaging, and the story line is not only believable, but also intriguing. The element of human interest and themes of betrayal, injustice and spiritualism make Different relatable to readers from all walks of life. Datta Groover makes the mystery of Sam's condition keep you guessing until the very end, and what a beautiful ending it is!

In Different by Datta Groover, Frank and Sofia MacBride’s relationship is hanging on by a thread. Both have unresolved issues from their pasts, which are further complicated by their young son, Sam, who has been diagnosed with autism. When Frank’s past threatens the safety of his family, he moves them to another town, which results in a different set of problems. Frank's choices now leave him no option but to lead a double life. Meanwhile, Sofia is left to deal with Sam’s increasingly strange behaviour and make peace with the ghosts from her childhood. The MacBride’s relationship is about to be put to the ultimate test as dark secrets are revealed and the truth behind Sam’s condition is discovered, which will astound them all.

Different by Datta Groover is a perfect example of storytelling. The author has created not only a superb plot but intricate details for each character that brought them to life. I became enmeshed in the complex lives of the MacBride family and wanted to see them survive as a family. The subplots were as engaging as the main plot, with an equal measure of conflict, tension and curve balls. I loved the spiritual aspect of the story and how it tackled life’s big questions about who we are and why we are here. This book is much more than a well-written novel; it will make you ponder your own life mission. The characters and story are so vivid and memorable and will remain with you long after the last page is read. If you love a novel that digs deep into your soul and makes you think about the world and spirituality, then this book has it all. Highly recommended.