Reviews​

“This is an impressive debut novel, a real coming of age story. Lawrence has created likeable characters who engage the reader and drive the book.” - Rebecca Kemble, Magpies Magazine

“. . . a tentative and gentle love story that casts an unflinching look at intergenerational crime, capital punishment and justice on a national and international scale . . . her characters give the book power and urgency.” - Thuy On, The Review, Weekend Australian

“This is a multilayered and topical novel brimming with compassion; revelatory about choices made by ordinary people in desperate situations. Ex-lawyer Lawrence writes with balanced authenticity, incorporating personal experience and presenting various perspectives as Bel’s situation escalates, affecting everyone in her life. If you want contemporary realism, a conversation starter that could change your opinion of human rights, crime and detention, I’d highly recommend Inside the Tiger!” - Lynndy, Gleebooks

“This is a beautifully written story of love, loss, friendship and family. Full of characters that will tug at your heartstrings, it also opens your eyes to the highly emotive subject of corporal punishment. The story makes you question how much a life is worth, and whether we should have the power or the right to sentence someone else to death for their crimes. It is also a story that resonates with themes of family and the power of love.” - Michelle, Lamont Books

“A captivating and raw read, this is a story of hope, determination and personal sacrifice and deals with many issues which have not been addressed in YA novels before, such as Death Row, conditions in prison and the murder of Bel’s mother. It is likely to appeal to teenagers (and shock) with a romanticised view of prison life and life between an inmate and a visitor.” - Dianne Bates, Buzzwords Magazine

“This first novel is remarkable in successfully weaving together a rarely explored and controversial topic with a complex and challenging coming of age story. Recommended for senior students and particularly those interested in social action this novel could be used as a discussion starter on social activism or capital punishment.” - Sue Speck, ReadPlus​

“We loved that Inside the Tiger dealt with an issue rarely seen in YA fiction. It's a gritty read, and while Lawrence offers a cautionary element, it isn't preachy or didactic . . . Lawrence's personal experience brings much authenticity to [the] story, and students will have to once again reconcile how unfair the justice system is in many parts of the world . . . This is what we believe Australian young adult fiction does best - highlight contemporary issues as part of a well constructed plot, involving realistic characters who serve to offer compassion and thoughtful views to often highly contentious issues.” - Riverbend Standing Orders