The Other Side of Disappearing

(4.75 stars) Part mystery, part romance, part focus on mental health and family

This is one of the most unique romance books I've read. Jess Greene's life is defined by the mother who left her, and when a popular true crime podcast comes knocking she's forced to confront the emotions she's tried desperately to keep locked away. Adam Hawkins has his own story to tell and he needs this podcast to go well before he can do it. He soon finds himself entangled in Jess's life and at odds with his own professional ethics.

As someone who used to binge a lot of true crime podcasts, the vibes of this book were spot on. The mystery of Jess's mom and the conman she left town with is compelling and holds its own against the romantic arc. There's also a strong theme of mental health and how different people cope with trauma. The two main characters are deeply introspective and hyper observant of the world around them. You spend much of the time in their thoughts (honestly almost too much at times) but it gives a really interesting look into how different a person's own view of themselves can be from those around them.

The romance isn't insta-love but is insta-connection. There's an immediate attraction pulling Jess and Adam together (even when they're basically strangers) and this felt a bit weak to me initially, but I ended up enjoying it. Jess is emotionally guarded, and Adam is there in a professional capacity so the romance is a slow burn. It's satisfying to see him do the work to gain her trust.

Overall I loved it. It was complex and emotional. There's character development not just for the main characters but the side characters as well. I'd recommend it to anyone, but especially to people who have listened to investigative podcasts and enjoyed them.