An incredible premise with somewhat middling execution. I wanted to love this, and went into the magical realism concept with an open mind, ready to see how this unique second chance at life would affect main character Meg. Most of the story is centered on Meg's attempts to repair her broken friendship with Aimee tangled up with the grief she feels from losing her within the other reality, which leads to several memorable scenes where she works through some very complicated feelings. There is also a romantic subplot between Meg and Cillian that has potential but feels very underbaked in comparison, relying too much on the connection that existed between them rather than the new one that they are forming. One of the biggest problems here is that the pacing is rather slow and it often felt like nothing was happening, so there were times when I wasn't particularly excited about picking up the book to see what happened next, yet I stuck with it to the end to see it wrap up rather nicely. A bit of a mixed bag, though there are aspects that really shine.

If a book is set in Ireland I know I'm going to read it! This story was so much more than I was expecting. I can't wait to tell others about it and get them to read it as well. This had me laughing and wishing her all the happiness. I true gem of a book!

The Other Side of Now is Paige Harbison's adult debut, and the first of her books I've read.

Content warnings include explicit sex (but no cringey or disrespectful language that I can remember), alcohol use, extreme dieting and body alterations to fit Hollywood standards of beauty, and death.

While the driving force of the story is Meg's discontent and restlessness in her story-opening timeline, the book isn't entirely heavy. Fun ingredients include mentions of The Phantom Tollbooth—my favorite children's book of all time, Hallmark movies, The Killers song Mr. Brightside, and the movie The Holiday. There are loyal and lovely dogs in both universes. As is often the case, I found humor to be the best part of the book—with Irish timeline friend Kiera as the star of the show, in my opinion.

The writing evokes great emotion—often wrenching or desirous. By the end of the story, Meg gains perspective and maturity. We can assume a happily-ever-after, though it's not explicitly stated. 3.66⭐

How many lives do we lead? Do we have multiple, simultaneous lives of the path not taken? The Other Side of Now explores this concept with successful actress Lana Lord, star of a hit tv series, who impulsively takes a trip to Ireland and seems to side slip into another version of her life.

The story is a lot of fun, even as Lana/Meg works through trauma from eleven years prior. The characters are real and sometimes laugh out loud funny. I found it to be a quick read and thoroughly entertaining as well as thought provoking and meaningful with a satisfying conclusion. I look forward to reading more from this author.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.

The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbison is a contemporary women’s fiction about finding oneself in the midst of grief. Meg Bryan appears to have everything she’s ever wanted in life: her dream job, fame, and beauty. But it’s all fake. Her life doesn’t bring her any joy. After wrapping her show up for the season and being told to lose a nonexistent ten pounds, Meg books a trip to a small town in Ireland, a place her and her best friend Aimee always wanted to go before a tragic accident changed Meg’s life. But once Meg gets there, the life she knew is a dream. In Avalon, Meg isn’t famous, she’s just broke up with a gorgeous barkeep, and, most important, Aimee is alive. Meg doesn’t know what the universe is doing, but she’ll do anything to have one more day with Aimee.

I adored this book. I could not sit it down. The book starts off with a Meg who is disenchanted with her life. She’s on the verge of a breakdown, just celebrated her birthday, and believes her boyfriend is cheating on her with his costar. The last one doesn’t really bother her too much. But everything else does. She isn’t happy. Meg believes it’s just stress and that some time away would do her good. Hence, the spontaneous trip to Ireland.

Meg’s life is flipped upside down. It’s like the universe is giving her a glimpse of what could have been if she’d chosen to go to school in Avalon instead of staying in Florida when Aimee didn’t get in to the college. It kind of reminds of me George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life. That one choice changes everything about who Meg is in her present. Now with no clue as to what is going on and who this Meg is, she’s got to pretend to be okay. Her phone offers a lot of clues from photos to her contact list. The fact that Aimee is alive and well in Avalon though is what Meg focuses on. What would her life be like if she’d never lost Aimee? Now she gets a chance to find that out.

The Other Side of Now is a beautifully written story about grief, friendships, and the everyday choices we make that shape our lives. For Meg, she’s not really been living, never admitting that Aimee is really and truly gone, and this experience forces her to evaluate everything she thought she knew. There are some wonderful side characters that Meg meets along the way, including an ex-boyfriend and a new bestie. I love the small town setting and how the author immerses you in Meg’s reality. If you are a fan of contemporary fiction with a touch of romance and magical realism, you are in for a treat. I highly recommend this one.

Wow. This was solid. I was a little wary at first of how this could go, and I really enjoyed it. I thought it was well executed and that the author did a good job of the alternate reality concept. This was good, and I'm really happy I picked it up. It didn't end the way I thought it would, but that goes to show that the author knows more than me about what was best ;)

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC!

This book was such an unexpected surprise and I loved every second of it! From the magical realism to the friendships, the laugh out loud moments, and the ones that put a lump in my throat. I think Keira is my new favorite side character. I loved her so so much. The romance was such a sweet touch- Cillian was just wonderful. I truly don’t have enough words for how much I loved this book. I hope everyone adds this to their TBR when it comes out next week.

4.5/5

4.5/5

I absolutely devoured this one, I’ve always been drawn to stories that explore the concept of alternate lives or “sliding doors” moments, and this one delivered in such a compelling and heartfelt way. The author takes the age old question—what if?—and spins it into a beautiful, emotional journey that really makes you pause and reflect.

I especially loved the main character, Meg, she felt so real and relatable. And I have to say, the version of Meg who lives in Ireland completely stole my heart. That storyline was so atmospheric and emotionally rich, it added an extra layer of depth that I didn’t expect but thoroughly enjoyed and her grief and vulnerability was raw and touching.

The premise felt fresh yet familiar in the best way, and I found myself completely immersed in the characters’ lives. It was equal parts emotional, thought provoking, and hopeful. A truly delightful read that lingers with you after you finish the last page and enough to make me add the author as an auto buy.

The Other Side of Now is a Sliding Doors-style romantic comedy that strikes all the right notes. I have seen it listed as magical realism which doesn't quite feel right to me, despite the alternate reality plot. Dissatisfied with her life as an LA actress, Lana Lord--who's real name is Meg Bryan--impulsively flees to the small town in Ireland where she'd hoped to attend college years ago. Upon arrival Meg finds herself alive in a timeline full of different decisions than the ones she thought she'd made. The charming small-town setting is populated with loveable characters who force Meg to face truths about herself and what really happened between her and her childhood friend Aimee. I loved the way the puzzle pieces of both timelines fell into place and found the ending both cathartic and satisfying. :Light on spice--with the exception of one scene--the intimacy described is more emotional than physical. Harbison has written a quality redemption story.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc and alc.

I thought this was a fun and unique novel. I loved how the author was the narrator of this book. I thought Meg was a very well developed main character. The only reason I am giving this book four stars instead of five is that it took me a minute to get into the story. I would've also possibly enjoyed seeing a different ending for the story, but that is just me.

3.5/5 - I recently heard a booktuber say that they never read an epilogue. Do not do that with this book. (But also why? It’s still part of the story??) This book had more depth than I expected. You really grapple with Meg’s big grief and the setup of the story makes you ponder how an experience like that can change a person.

As far as the plot goes, I thought the author actually did a very good job with the wrap up. Things made as much sense as they could without really explaining the magic. I thought characters had really realistic reactions and it felt authentic. I wish that we had gotten some scenes of the other Meg in LA, but I recognize this isn’t her story.

My only really criticism is that the story felt a little name droppy in a way. There were references to Barry Keoghan and The White Lotus for example. I’m just not sure how timeless those references are going to end up being. Obviously both are having a moment right now, but I could see them dating the book in a few years. Also, the spice scene was completely unnecessary and can be skipped without any effect on plot or how you feel about characters (so really, why include it in the first place?) Once again, it felt like it was included because the author felt like this is the kind of book that should have that and it’s really not.

But overall, this book surprised me in a good way and I thought the ending was especially thoughtful. I thought I knew how the story was going to go and I’m happy to report that I was wrong. The book was still able to surprise me in some ways and that was a real treat.

Note: I received a free ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

From the very start, I was iffy about Meg. But when an impromptu trip to Ireland sends her into an alternate version of her life (one where she’s not a superficial celebrity and her best friend is still alive), I was really hopeful things would turn around. I LOVE a story that blends magical realism and grief. And you can’t go wrong with an Ireland setting. But halfway through, I felt like nothing was happening. The pacing was just incredibly slow.

The messy, on-and-off romance seemed promising, but it was frustrating that Meg’s connection with Cillian relied almost entirely on her alternate self’s already-established feelings. It felt like the story took the easy way out when it came to building their chemistry. He was essentially a stranger to her, yet she just “felt” like she was supposed to love him? I needed more from them.

I did appreciate the grief storyline, with Meg being forced to confront her loss by seeing her friend alive again. What a fun use of magical realism. Meg’s unhappiness in both versions of her life was a heartfelt comparison, and I liked the message of creating the life you truly want. The ending was bittersweet and surprisingly satisfying, but the journey there was not for me.

What a delight this was. I typically have a hard time getting into time travel/ alternate universe stories but this one was so charming. I love it. The Other Side of Now is full of heart and wonderful characters. You’ll fall in love with this story and want to pack up and move to Ireland immediately.

Time travel is not one of my favorite tropes as they are obviously unrealistic and a little cringy at times. But this one was pretty good! It’s quirky and sad and enlightening. This book was more than romance, it was a book about finding what makes you happy and friendship.
It made me think of my bestie who is 3 hours away and how I never want to take our 20+ year friendship for granted as you never know when you will see them for the last time.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I’m giving it 3.5 stars because I was a little bored at first and because I usually like a good pop culture reference but there was way too many for me.

Wow! I think I find myself a favorite new author. Never did I expect to have loved this book as much as I did but wow it was amazing. It made me laugh, it may me cry, and it made me not want to stop reading. The story had a bit of a “Sliding Doors” feel with the main character, Meg getting to live in an alternate version of her life. A version where her best friend Aimee is still alive and well. This story was so touching and a great look at friendship, grief, and finding oneself.

Thank you to Netgalley and to the publishers for allowing me to read this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

WOW. I loved every second of this book. I loved that it focused mostly on friendship with a dash of romance all tightly wrapped around self reinvention. It touches a lot on grief and trauma in a way that wasn't too emotional that it took away from the lightheartedness of the story, but serious enough to send a message. I simply could not tear my eyes away and devoured this in one day. Magnificent.

First of all, wow.

I listened to the audiobook and let me just say that the narrator, who also happens to be the author, absolutely nailed the narration. I highly suggest the audiobook. The emotions that come through were devastating in the best way. Oh my goodness, I’m sobbing. Sad tears but also hopeful ones. She had a different voice/accent for each character too. It was great! I loved the acknowledgements at the end as well.🙂

I personally love magical realism but this book was even more incredible than I imagined it would be. It was done in a way that somehow didn’t feel cringy at all. It was funny, entertaining, and healing.
This deals with loss, guilt, and moving on. The fmc, Meg, was so real and relatable. Her journey in this book is both heartbreaking and inspiring. I loved every character in this book so much!
If you enjoy magical realism with lots of healing and heart, then I highly recommend this one! Listen to the audio!

“I’m on the road not taken!” With this bold declaration, Paige Harbison’s The Other Side of Now sets the stage for a heart-tugging, imaginative journey that’s part rom-com, part emotional reckoning—and completely unforgettable.

At 30, Meg (aka Lana Lord to her Hollywood fans) seems to have it all: beauty, wealth, fame, and a picture-perfect boyfriend. But under the glossy surface, something’s missing. On the night of her milestone birthday, a flicker of regret leads her to a tiny arts school in Ireland—the path not taken. What follows is a magical twist straight out of Sliding Doors: Meg wakes up in an alternate version of her life where she did move to Ireland at 18.

This new reality is filled with surprises: her career, her friendships, even her face (free from the Hollywood touch-ups) are all different. Most stunning of all? Her best friend—who died over a decade ago in her “real” life—is alive and thriving here.

What sets The Other Side of Now apart is its warmth and emotional depth. Meg is a quirky, likable protagonist who doesn’t shy away from the surreal nature of her situation. She openly confesses to her new circle of friends that she’s somehow in the “wrong” life—and in true small-town fashion, the news spreads like wildfire. But instead of leaning into chaos, the novel leans into connection, reflection, and healing.

Though the premise may hint at a light rom-com, Harbison delivers something much more layered. Yes, there’s romance, laughter, and charm—but there’s also grief, personal growth, and the aching beauty of second chances. Expect to shed a few tears as Meg comes to terms with what she’s lost, what she’s gained, and who she truly wants to be.

And the ending? Absolutely perfect—heartfelt without being saccharine, satisfying without tying everything too neatly in a bow. For those who, like me, are picky about how a book leaves you, this one sticks the landing.

The Other Side of Now is a poignant, whimsical exploration of choice, identity, and the many lives we could live. A must-read for anyone who’s ever wondered, What if?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.

It's been quite some time since a book made me as emotional as this one. Meg has never really processed a loss she experienced when she was young. Now living as a famous actress in LA, she feels burnt out and tired of her life. On a whim, she books a trip to Ireland. Once she's there, she's transported to a world that could've been hers had she chosen a different path. Filled with laughter, friendship, and grief, The Other Side of Now will make you want to squeeze your loved ones a little tired and ((maybe)) rethink all your life choices.

The tears this book brought to my eyes. I absolutely LOVED how the main focus of this book was tackling grief but with humor sprinkled in. The focus on friendship made me not want to put it down. Meg, Aimee, and Kiera are the embodiment of strong female friendships.

Any female struggling with grief should pick this one up. This would be an incredible book club read!

4.5/5 stars, rounded up

Thank you St. Martin's Press for the advanced reading copy!

I LOVED this book. Magical realism is so hit or miss for me, but I love these sorts of time warp/alternate universe sorts of plot lines. There's often a sense of sadness when I'm finishing a book like this, because (by design) I know part of the story is going to be lost in some way. However, I loved the way that this one was wrapped up -- Paige Harbison did a great job of presenting this with happiness and joy, rather than sadness and loss.

It's funny to think this now, but I almost quit on this one at the beginning. Meg seemed vapid, and I didn't go into this one knowing anything about the story, so I wasn't sure if I could count on her growing and changing. I'm sooo glad I stuck with it, because this turned into such a beautiful story, with a little bit of everything -- found family, romance, character growth, intrigue, etc. Plus, the Irish setting was really fun, and Paige Harbison -- author AND NARRATOR! -- did a great job with the accents and different voices for the characters.

This one really tugged at the heart strings, and had some great moments of humor. I even laughed out loud during the acknowledgements, which has probably never happened in history. All in all, a really great story with some magic, love and transformation.