Finding Utopia in The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbison
As I delved into The Other Side of Now, I found myself drawn to the idea of alternate realities and the paths not taken—a theme that always sparks my curiosity. Paige Harbison’s adult debut seduced me with its premise: what if you could step into a life that exists only in a parallel universe? This book, with its heartfelt storytelling and enchanting setting, was exactly the kind of reflective read I needed this June.
We meet Meg "Meggie" Bryan, known to fans as the glamorous soap opera actress Lana Lord, who seemingly has it all in Los Angeles: fame, fortune, and a stylish life. But as the narrative unfolds, we realize that the glittering surface hides deep cracks. On her thirtieth birthday, feeling unfulfilled and desperate for change, she embarks on a journey to Avalon, Ireland—the place she envisioned for her college years but never attained. Harbison cleverly hints at what it means to chase dreams—only to find that perhaps those dreams have shifted.
One enchanting twist occurs when Meg falls into an alternate timeline where she’s forged a new identity in Avalon. Suddenly, she’s surrounded by friends and a complicated romance with Cillian, along with a chilling revelation about her best friend, Aimee. The depth of Meg’s characters shines through as she learns to slow down and appreciate the “biggest moments” in life, a poignant reminder of what truly matters. As Meg grapples with the themes of grief and self-discovery, I found myself reflecting on my own experiences with friendship and the concept of "home."
Harbison’s writing is infused with warmth and vivid imagery. The iridescent landscapes of Avalon practically leapt off the page, rich in their description and nostalgia. The story’s pacing felt effortless, drawing me in as Meg learned to navigate her new life. One line particularly resonated with me: “Nothing as simple as fame could give me what I need.” In this era of hustle culture, Meg’s journey to forge genuine connections felt refreshing and meaningful.
However, it’s worth noting that while the book carries a romance tag—perhaps to attract a wider audience—it often operates more as contemporary fiction than love story. The on-again, off-again dynamic between Meg and Cillian felt chaotic, and I struggled to find the chemistry between them. I also encountered one particularly unsettling scene involving a character named Theo, which, without giving spoilers, left me uneasy and questioning the decisions made by those involved.
In terms of pacing, I felt the conclusion arrived abruptly. Nevertheless, the journey was rich and fulfilling, with explorations of identity and relationships that lingered with me long after I turned the last page. I believe Harbison beautifully captures the essence of what it means to step outside oneself and embrace change, making The Other Side of Now a heartfelt companion for anyone struggling to find balance between ambition and genuine connection.
If you’re looking for an engaging read that explores the nuances of life and friendship against a backdrop of self-discovery, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up The Other Side of Now. It’s a stunning debut that hints at Harbison’s potential as an author to watch. You might just find a little piece of your own Avalon amidst its pages.
Happy reading! ✨
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