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The Other Side of Together #1
The Other Side of Together
An emotionally raw story of first love, possibility, and rewriting our destinies, this YA romance captures the ache of Laura Nowlin with a romantic innocence reminiscent of Jenny Han.
Marcus is destined for big things. He’s a star soccer player, straight-A student, and gorgeous beyond the hopes of most girls. Especially since they’re off limits. Because of his detective dad’s painful past with women, Marcus made a bet with him to avoid girls until after high school. So far, so good.
Mei Li's world is anything but bright. She’s a pawn in a dangerous game to keep her and her family in America but dreams of a very different life. However, dreams turn to fear when she discovers the guy she’s supposed to trust with her heart is more disturbed than she could ever imagine.
Even though Mei Li and Marcus live around the corner from each other in San Francisco’s Chinatown, the only thing they have in common is a trolley stop. Until the day they step through the same shop door and into a new possibility.
What starts as secret notes and texts quickly becomes a desperate attempt to be together. But together is impossible. Opposing futures, a tangle of dark connections, and one big secret come between them, forcing them to risk their safety for love or leave the possibility of together behind forever.
Marcus is destined for big things. He’s a star soccer player, straight-A student, and gorgeous beyond the hopes of most girls. Especially since they’re off limits. Because of his detective dad’s painful past with women, Marcus made a bet with him to avoid girls until after high school. So far, so good.
Mei Li's world is anything but bright. She’s a pawn in a dangerous game to keep her and her family in America but dreams of a very different life. However, dreams turn to fear when she discovers the guy she’s supposed to trust with her heart is more disturbed than she could ever imagine.
Even though Mei Li and Marcus live around the corner from each other in San Francisco’s Chinatown, the only thing they have in common is a trolley stop. Until the day they step through the same shop door and into a new possibility.
What starts as secret notes and texts quickly becomes a desperate attempt to be together. But together is impossible. Opposing futures, a tangle of dark connections, and one big secret come between them, forcing them to risk their safety for love or leave the possibility of together behind forever.
298 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2024
26 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 4, 2024
Mei Li and Marcus both have expectations and pressures that draw them apart. Mei Li is involved with Nick, who is an adult and is helping her with culinary school and chef internship opportunities. Also, he is the reason her family has been able to be successful in the USA. Mei Li has to weigh if a relationship is worth her future.
Marcus has full scholarships for soccer, so Marcus’s dad tells him if he avoids girls, then he will buy him a motorcycle after high school graduation and a car after college graduation. Can Marcus hold up his end of the deal?
They share the same cable car stop and Marcus and his Dad frequently dine at Mei Li’s parents’ restaurant. When Marcus shows interest in Mei Li, he starts to send her messages through fortune cookies and makes a bet with her. But in the end, will they be able to have a relationship? What secrets will be revealed and will this push them to the brink? Can they find happiness in the end?
The writing in this book draws you in from the start. I love how each chapter alternates between Mei Li and Marcus. This gave good insight into their lives. Given the circumstances Mei Li and Marcus are put in, you find yourself cheering them on. A page turner that keeps you entertained until the end! Even though this book highlights difficult relationships and situations, it has a satisfying ending.
Thanks to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for the gifted copy!
Marcus has full scholarships for soccer, so Marcus’s dad tells him if he avoids girls, then he will buy him a motorcycle after high school graduation and a car after college graduation. Can Marcus hold up his end of the deal?
They share the same cable car stop and Marcus and his Dad frequently dine at Mei Li’s parents’ restaurant. When Marcus shows interest in Mei Li, he starts to send her messages through fortune cookies and makes a bet with her. But in the end, will they be able to have a relationship? What secrets will be revealed and will this push them to the brink? Can they find happiness in the end?
The writing in this book draws you in from the start. I love how each chapter alternates between Mei Li and Marcus. This gave good insight into their lives. Given the circumstances Mei Li and Marcus are put in, you find yourself cheering them on. A page turner that keeps you entertained until the end! Even though this book highlights difficult relationships and situations, it has a satisfying ending.
Thanks to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for the gifted copy!
April 19, 2024
I blew through this book, simply put: I couldn’t put it down! The plot starts simply enough and you may think (as I did) that it will be like many ya romances I’ve read before, sweet and simple. Then the plot slowly spirals until it starts to read more like a thriller towards the end. Marcus and Mei were so cute, totally loved the West Side Story vibes. Everyone needs a Marcus in their lives. The way first love was portrayed is totally, and sometimes painfully, accurate. There were so many moments between Marli that curled my toes and made me bite my lip to keep in a squeal - they were just that cute.
But the end! Ugh. Let’s just say I NEED MORE!
But the end! Ugh. Let’s just say I NEED MORE!
December 21, 2023
Marcus has everything going for him; he’s a star athlete, has a 4.0 gpa, and is an absolute heartthrob. Unfortunately, he’s completely off limits due to a bet he made with his dad. If he can last until graduation without being with any girls, he gets his own motorcycle. Thanks to his father’s painful past with Marcus’s mother, he’s been avoiding girls since puberty. Mei Li’s life is very different from Marcus’s, she’s the daughter of undocumented immigrants and is being used as a pawn by an older man to keep her family in America. Once Marcus and Mei Li meet each other by chance, a spark is felt that can’t be silenced. Both teenagers quickly fall head over heels, but when Mei Li gets tangled into some dark business, their relationship may or may not survive.
The Other Side of Together was emotional - it gave me warm fuzzy feelings as well as moments of sadness and frustration. I felt that at some points, the story was a little slow or boring, but the high points were definitely the emotional depth and the characters. Sometimes I wanted to roll my eyes at how immature Marcus and Mei Li could be (for example, everything seems like a much bigger deal than it really is) BUT that’s me as an adult reading this and I had to step back and remind myself the characters are children and are acting appropriately. I’m so used to authors writing YA characters that act much more mature, but this book was very realistic in the teenage perspective and I really appreciated that. Overall, I think this is good contemporary fiction and creative enough that it never felt similar to another story.
I was given an early copy by the authors and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
The Other Side of Together was emotional - it gave me warm fuzzy feelings as well as moments of sadness and frustration. I felt that at some points, the story was a little slow or boring, but the high points were definitely the emotional depth and the characters. Sometimes I wanted to roll my eyes at how immature Marcus and Mei Li could be (for example, everything seems like a much bigger deal than it really is) BUT that’s me as an adult reading this and I had to step back and remind myself the characters are children and are acting appropriately. I’m so used to authors writing YA characters that act much more mature, but this book was very realistic in the teenage perspective and I really appreciated that. Overall, I think this is good contemporary fiction and creative enough that it never felt similar to another story.
I was given an early copy by the authors and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2024
With the cute cover and the anticipation of a darling little YA romance set in the heart of San Francisco, I was caught off guard by the darkest depths of connections, fear and entanglements, even with a hint of a shadow of what was to come.
I was moved by this author duo’s ability to create a beautifully powerful tale, tangled with heaviness, but tinged with hope, and delivered with extreme care. For the most part, there is a vagueness to the evilness going on and I had to second guess myself, wondering if what I thought was happening was what was actually happening, and I appreciated that tactful blend–to not only tell a story of real life, but to handle it with caution.
Marcus and Mei Li are such wonderful, vibrant, passionate characters and reading about them felt like a throwback to the day when life was more carefree and hormones ruled the world. I loved watching these two attach to one another in such a natural, yet secret and forbidden way, while trying to navigate dark and complex issues they didn’t quite understand.
My heart has been scarred and twisted in emotional ways, but I’m not mad about it. I felt like a few matters weren’t quite resolved, but overall, I was satisfied with this crushing and compelling tale.
Content/TW: mild-moderate romance; mild-moderate violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I was moved by this author duo’s ability to create a beautifully powerful tale, tangled with heaviness, but tinged with hope, and delivered with extreme care. For the most part, there is a vagueness to the evilness going on and I had to second guess myself, wondering if what I thought was happening was what was actually happening, and I appreciated that tactful blend–to not only tell a story of real life, but to handle it with caution.
Marcus and Mei Li are such wonderful, vibrant, passionate characters and reading about them felt like a throwback to the day when life was more carefree and hormones ruled the world. I loved watching these two attach to one another in such a natural, yet secret and forbidden way, while trying to navigate dark and complex issues they didn’t quite understand.
My heart has been scarred and twisted in emotional ways, but I’m not mad about it. I felt like a few matters weren’t quite resolved, but overall, I was satisfied with this crushing and compelling tale.
Content/TW: mild-moderate romance; mild-moderate violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 27, 2024
The Other Side of Together is a sweet YA romance with some heavy, very heavy, content.
I am impressed with the authors' ability to write such a sweet pure story of young love overshadowed by the stress of living life under the radar as an undocumented immigrant.
There was some tough content, it was deeply emotional and heartbreaking, but the love story kept my heart from breaking in two.
I will definitely read more by this duo.
I am impressed with the authors' ability to write such a sweet pure story of young love overshadowed by the stress of living life under the radar as an undocumented immigrant.
There was some tough content, it was deeply emotional and heartbreaking, but the love story kept my heart from breaking in two.
I will definitely read more by this duo.
March 1, 2024
I absolutely adored this book! The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox and Nicole Allen is a beautifully crafted YA romance with some heavy elements. It was intense at times while remaining an “edgy, clean fiction with a bite.”
I definitely recommend this gorgeous book while I (not so) patiently wait for book 2! 5 stars!!
Thank you to Monster Ivy, Emily, and Nicole for the privilege to review TOSOT.
I definitely recommend this gorgeous book while I (not so) patiently wait for book 2! 5 stars!!
Thank you to Monster Ivy, Emily, and Nicole for the privilege to review TOSOT.
January 9, 2024
I don't know what I was expecting when I got this book, I didn't even read the blurb first, but wow.... That was quite a ride! Amazing, well done, just wow.
February 4, 2024
I was intrigued by the premise of this book. I really enjoy stories where people with different life experiences fall in love and have to shift their perspectives because of it. While I enjoyed this story, there were some things about the message of the book and writing that didn't fully work for me.
One thing I loved about this story was how well the emotion was captured. As a teenager, I remember feeling things incredibly intensely and these authors captured that well, particularly for Marcus. I thought it was really interesting that while he was in the less precarious situation he was the one whose feelings were more overwhelming. In some ways, I really liked this because Mei is used to her situation but for Marcus, this is the first time he has to navigate more complicated adult problems.
One thing I was a little concerned about was the message this book was sending on relationships and sexuality. First, I thought what Marcus had been taught about sex and relationships was pretty problematic. While these beliefs were challenged I would have liked to see more resolution there particularly when it came to the issue of sex.
I also had some concerns about this being a YA book. I know that teenagers can handle heavy topics. However, this book includes an on-page attempted rape without content warnings. It also touches on other sensitive topics like how undocumented immigrants can be taken advantage of and sex trafficking. While the romance was sweet, these other topics are heavy and I definitely wouldn't recommend this book to someone under the age of 16 (I might even say 18 it depends on the kid).
Finally, in terms of writing, I kept feeling like this book was set in an earlier time period, even though the characters had cell phones and it was meant to be contemporary. I think it might have just been the somewhat old-fashioned values some of the characters had but it may also have been something about the references I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
Overall, if you love a forbidden love story with young adults then this book may be for you. I definitely felt some West Side Story vibes from this one! I would just caution readers to be aware of the sensitive topics.
🌶️ This book is closed door though it does include kissing and making out
Thank you to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for providing me with an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
One thing I loved about this story was how well the emotion was captured. As a teenager, I remember feeling things incredibly intensely and these authors captured that well, particularly for Marcus. I thought it was really interesting that while he was in the less precarious situation he was the one whose feelings were more overwhelming. In some ways, I really liked this because Mei is used to her situation but for Marcus, this is the first time he has to navigate more complicated adult problems.
One thing I was a little concerned about was the message this book was sending on relationships and sexuality. First, I thought what Marcus had been taught about sex and relationships was pretty problematic. While these beliefs were challenged I would have liked to see more resolution there particularly when it came to the issue of sex.
I also had some concerns about this being a YA book. I know that teenagers can handle heavy topics. However, this book includes an on-page attempted rape without content warnings. It also touches on other sensitive topics like how undocumented immigrants can be taken advantage of and sex trafficking. While the romance was sweet, these other topics are heavy and I definitely wouldn't recommend this book to someone under the age of 16 (I might even say 18 it depends on the kid).
Finally, in terms of writing, I kept feeling like this book was set in an earlier time period, even though the characters had cell phones and it was meant to be contemporary. I think it might have just been the somewhat old-fashioned values some of the characters had but it may also have been something about the references I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
Overall, if you love a forbidden love story with young adults then this book may be for you. I definitely felt some West Side Story vibes from this one! I would just caution readers to be aware of the sensitive topics.
🌶️ This book is closed door though it does include kissing and making out
Thank you to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for providing me with an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 18, 2023
Mei and Marcus will forever be a huge powerhouse of a couple to me #Marlie forever are you kidding me?!😭😭🫶🏻💖 From the very beginning at the mention of Nick and how he was described gave me the ABSOLUTE ICK and hated him asap. He deserves all the bad things, him and all his little “friends”.
Words will never describe how much I LOVE dual POVs or even multiple POVs for that matter and how much I LOVE a good novel with text messages!! It’s ✨chefs kiss✨ love love love it. I also love the way Marcus would count the hours, even seconds down to a t to when he first-last made eye contact with Mei and how many notes they’ve shared.
Mei’s tattoo describes her perfectly and her, Marcus, Guo Mama (I love that old woman so much😩), the women Mei helped, and even Mei’s Mama. I can’t say a whole lot to avoid tons of spoilers just PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS GOOD READ THIS NOVEL!!!! YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT!!
I just gotta say, what a HUGE diabolical cliffhanger I am outraged 🥲 I love this Novel with my whole heart and I am beyond privileged that Emily and Nicole chose me as an ARC reader and I hope to forever be on their team because they are amazing writers and just downright amazing human beings and am so grateful to know them.
Words will never describe how much I LOVE dual POVs or even multiple POVs for that matter and how much I LOVE a good novel with text messages!! It’s ✨chefs kiss✨ love love love it. I also love the way Marcus would count the hours, even seconds down to a t to when he first-last made eye contact with Mei and how many notes they’ve shared.
Mei’s tattoo describes her perfectly and her, Marcus, Guo Mama (I love that old woman so much😩), the women Mei helped, and even Mei’s Mama. I can’t say a whole lot to avoid tons of spoilers just PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS GOOD READ THIS NOVEL!!!! YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT!!
I just gotta say, what a HUGE diabolical cliffhanger I am outraged 🥲 I love this Novel with my whole heart and I am beyond privileged that Emily and Nicole chose me as an ARC reader and I hope to forever be on their team because they are amazing writers and just downright amazing human beings and am so grateful to know them.
February 14, 2024
An enjoyable and engaging YA romance which kept me hooked throughout. This heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it. Marcus and Mei Li have been drawn to each other ever since they met at a trolley stop in Chinatown. However, that is all they have in common as Marcus is a boy with an enviable future, whilst Mei Li is a secretive girl with a dark destiny. They are prevented from ever being together by family and dark forces, but this does not stop them from communicating in secret. They then meet up secretly and as their feelings grow, they share their first kisses, and start to talk of love.
Then one night a combination of dark connections and opposing futures tears them apart. Marcus is left longing for Mei Li and keeps asking himself if he will ever find her again. Such an emotional romance about love against impossible odds. I loved both Marcus and Mei Li as they are likeable and relatable characters. Their chemistry really came across in the narrative, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. This is a wonderfully written story, and the author really sets the scene and brought the setting and characters to life through the descriptive narrative.
Then one night a combination of dark connections and opposing futures tears them apart. Marcus is left longing for Mei Li and keeps asking himself if he will ever find her again. Such an emotional romance about love against impossible odds. I loved both Marcus and Mei Li as they are likeable and relatable characters. Their chemistry really came across in the narrative, and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. This is a wonderfully written story, and the author really sets the scene and brought the setting and characters to life through the descriptive narrative.
December 3, 2023
I was not expecting such an emotional story going into this. It was real, it was raw and it was BEAUTIFUL.
This is not a genre I read often but I have to admit, I will be picking up book 2 when ready. I was not expecting a cliffhanger! I kept trying to click next page like cmon! You left me hanging here. With this said, the book was really hooking and I got so into it.
This book covers real and slightly dark topics which are obviously played up fictionally. Mei Li and Marcus’ relationship is heart warming and emotional, the writing and plot transported me and I felt like I was back in school experiencing all these emotions of a first love. The authors did an amazing job at portraying “teen love” - like staying up till 4am to text your crush back, the passing of notes back and forth…. Even inside fortune cookies, on the back of menus!
Overall, I would recommend this book. It was refreshing and such a change for me, it was really easy to get into and follow along.
Key Points:
Dual POV
1st Person
Cliffhanger
YA
Romance
Dark/Real topics
Opposites Attract
Thank you Emily & Nicole for reaching out and providing me an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
This is not a genre I read often but I have to admit, I will be picking up book 2 when ready. I was not expecting a cliffhanger! I kept trying to click next page like cmon! You left me hanging here. With this said, the book was really hooking and I got so into it.
This book covers real and slightly dark topics which are obviously played up fictionally. Mei Li and Marcus’ relationship is heart warming and emotional, the writing and plot transported me and I felt like I was back in school experiencing all these emotions of a first love. The authors did an amazing job at portraying “teen love” - like staying up till 4am to text your crush back, the passing of notes back and forth…. Even inside fortune cookies, on the back of menus!
Overall, I would recommend this book. It was refreshing and such a change for me, it was really easy to get into and follow along.
Key Points:
Dual POV
1st Person
Cliffhanger
YA
Romance
Dark/Real topics
Opposites Attract
Thank you Emily & Nicole for reaching out and providing me an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
August 28, 2024
Who would have ever thought of writing notes to a love interest through fortune cookies? Marcus and Mei Lei are so very different but yet they are the same. Both of them have big dreams and a lot is riding on them. Mei Lei finds herself tied to a man that is a few years older. He has shown her family kindness in their situation, however he may not be what or who he is portraying to the outside world. Marcus has seen his father have disaterous luck in relationships and finds himself making a bet not to get caught up in any girls. That all changes one day when these two have a chance meeting at the one spot they share in common. Marcus wants to honor the bet but he is also finding himself wanting the relationship. This book was definitely a bit outside of what I have been reading lately but it was a nice change up. I like the way the story flowed and how we got to see things from each character POV. Normally I am not a huge fan of that however the authors made that part flow effortlessly and it was not an issue. It started out a bit slow but picked up in no time. I do hope there is a book 2!
February 15, 2024
This YA story has a great romance story and mystery behind it. It focuses on Max, an up and rising soccer star with many future prospects in his path, and Mei Li, a hard worker who is being threatened to keep her life as is for her family’s sake. Even though Max and Mei Li have grown up in the same neighborhood they have barely spoken to one another until a chance conversation and the start of passing notes via fortune cookies. I’ve always had a soft spot for romance stories where one feels inadequate of being admired, especially by those who are admired by many. They end up a more heartfelt connection as they start investing in time with the other and the circumstances that follow them. Mei Li starts opening up on the circumstances that follow her family and she must do what she can to protect them. This is a great story and recommended to anyone who enjoys the romance as well as the intrigue behind Mei Li’s story.
February 18, 2024
Emotional, Funny, Hopeful
Marcus and Mei Li have dreamed about their separate futures for years. College, travel, culinary school…but reaching those futures has grown so much more complicated, and their choices have narrowed by the time they find each other. As they grow closer and danger and uncertainties arise, everything tangles up until the only thing that makes sense is each other.
But when their secrets begin to unravel and everything seems to push them apart, they have to decide—is the freedom of love worth it, even if it comes at the cost of everything else?
I honestly loved this book. It delivers all the sweetness and obsession and awkwardness of first love mixed into the struggle of trying to figure out how to fit into a confusing and often dangerous adult world. Genuinely funny and heart-achingly real, this one will stay with me for a long time. Bring on book 2!
Marcus and Mei Li have dreamed about their separate futures for years. College, travel, culinary school…but reaching those futures has grown so much more complicated, and their choices have narrowed by the time they find each other. As they grow closer and danger and uncertainties arise, everything tangles up until the only thing that makes sense is each other.
But when their secrets begin to unravel and everything seems to push them apart, they have to decide—is the freedom of love worth it, even if it comes at the cost of everything else?
I honestly loved this book. It delivers all the sweetness and obsession and awkwardness of first love mixed into the struggle of trying to figure out how to fit into a confusing and often dangerous adult world. Genuinely funny and heart-achingly real, this one will stay with me for a long time. Bring on book 2!
April 25, 2024
My schedule can be kinda hectic and disorganized, especially being a mood reader! But I honestly had to always make at least some time to read The Other side. Right from the beginning I knew Marcus and Mei were going to have an incredible love story! (Just Like Gua Mamá said) getting to read their notes and texts was such a great addition to the story!
Not only did we get a great love story, we also got a little bit of suspense with Nick and his evil world. He gave me the Ick from the beginning and knew he was up to no good. I was still pleasantly surprised at the end though with how Mei’s family was tied in.
I really hope this isn’t where the story ends cause I NEED more! 100% recommend!!
Not only did we get a great love story, we also got a little bit of suspense with Nick and his evil world. He gave me the Ick from the beginning and knew he was up to no good. I was still pleasantly surprised at the end though with how Mei’s family was tied in.
I really hope this isn’t where the story ends cause I NEED more! 100% recommend!!
February 12, 2024
Oh, wow! This story could have come straight from today’s headlines! At the center is the budding romance between an undocumented immigrant and the son of a police detective. Both young people are hampered by family secrets- the ones they, as well as the ones they are unaware of. Family loyalty competes with the urge on the parts of the couple to forge their own path together. The end of the story is actually a new beginning.
February 13, 2024
A light but real romance full of heartache, love and everything that can come in between. This story brings you back into those first love feels and makes you want to cuddle up and scream at the same time. It was a first kind of book for me. I had so many feelings and emotions but absolutely loved it. I really hope that Emily Cox and Nicole Allen write a second and make a series, a set, something for sure!
February 15, 2024
Mei Li moved from Vietnam to the United States when she was 8. She’s been helping run the family business her whole life. She wants to go to culinary school and be the best of the best. Then there is Marcus, he fell face first in love with Mei Li.
The way they passed notes to each other, or the texting. Omg!! This was an absolute devour book!!
The way they passed notes to each other, or the texting. Omg!! This was an absolute devour book!!
March 1, 2024
I read this because it was free on Kindle Unlimited. Because I liked it so much, I wanted to buy it for my classroom library (because students would like it too). But why is the physical book SO EXPENSIVE?! Many of the books in my classroom library are purchased with my own money, so this one might not make the cut, and that's a shame.
February 3, 2024
An intriguing YA read that covers some deep topics. The story was beautiful, raw and emotional. I will definitely be reading more by these authors.
February 3, 2024
Mmm. a-Mei-zing. COULD NOT PUT DOWN. Both Emily Cox and Nicole Allen are new authors to me, and I don’t even have words. The fact that this book was written by two amazing authors but more so the fact that it was so seamless, honestly if not for the front having both names you would think this was written by one incredible author. Dual perspectives Mei Li and Marcus.
Mei Li is from Taiwan but moved to San Fransisco when she was eight years old and now lives in Chinatown with her parents and they own a family restaurant, Zheng’s. Marcus is the son of Detective Ray Miller, a star student and soccer star. Both have big dreams but after ten years of living on the same block one day, one tiny “insignificant” moment changes everything. Mei deals with the secrets of her family’s status in the US while trying to show gratitude to the “man” that helped them stay here. But now since meeting Marcus she no longer wants to just play the part and settle for the grown man seven years older than her that isn’t who he pretends to be. Her dreams are to be a chef, to go to L.A., find an internship and go to culinary school. Only Nick has suffocating ropes attached to his “kindness”. Marcus has a dream to go to Stanford with a full scholarship in soccer, to play. Only he fears abandoning his father like his mother did so long ago. Finding Mei, he still cares about school, soccer, and finishing the deal with his dad for his motorcycle but he wants the girl now too. His parents went zero to a hundred quick, and it burned them both, Marcus being the only good thing to come from it. Marcus doesn’t want that he wants every day to begin, end and be filled with Mei in his life. To take things slow and steady for the win-win.
When secrets start to come to light, will anyone be left standing in the ashes? Can Mei Li escape the nightmare she’s “trapped” in? How will Marcus complete the deal and get the girl? This world is a reality based one with countless people living in similar moments every day. Mei Li and Marcus were brought together right when it was their moment, when their lives were supposed to truly begin. Not the lives their parents tried to force on them but their own. I absolutely LOVED the characters of Mei Li and Marcus their innocents and curiosity, coming into their emotions and not running from them when they felt they should. I especially have a personal understanding of Marcus as I was also the product of teen “love” that burned out too quickly. While my mom wasn’t as extreme as Marcus’s dad I had similar rules, my mother was terrified I would be a teen mom too, but I did things the “proper” way, married and then kids. Life is what you make it, our decisions shape them and when parents feel they made mistakes and force those changes on their kids they create unimaginable fears. I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more books from these authors, they have captured my heart with Mei Li and Marcus, and I will eagerly devour anything that comes next.
Mei Li is from Taiwan but moved to San Fransisco when she was eight years old and now lives in Chinatown with her parents and they own a family restaurant, Zheng’s. Marcus is the son of Detective Ray Miller, a star student and soccer star. Both have big dreams but after ten years of living on the same block one day, one tiny “insignificant” moment changes everything. Mei deals with the secrets of her family’s status in the US while trying to show gratitude to the “man” that helped them stay here. But now since meeting Marcus she no longer wants to just play the part and settle for the grown man seven years older than her that isn’t who he pretends to be. Her dreams are to be a chef, to go to L.A., find an internship and go to culinary school. Only Nick has suffocating ropes attached to his “kindness”. Marcus has a dream to go to Stanford with a full scholarship in soccer, to play. Only he fears abandoning his father like his mother did so long ago. Finding Mei, he still cares about school, soccer, and finishing the deal with his dad for his motorcycle but he wants the girl now too. His parents went zero to a hundred quick, and it burned them both, Marcus being the only good thing to come from it. Marcus doesn’t want that he wants every day to begin, end and be filled with Mei in his life. To take things slow and steady for the win-win.
When secrets start to come to light, will anyone be left standing in the ashes? Can Mei Li escape the nightmare she’s “trapped” in? How will Marcus complete the deal and get the girl? This world is a reality based one with countless people living in similar moments every day. Mei Li and Marcus were brought together right when it was their moment, when their lives were supposed to truly begin. Not the lives their parents tried to force on them but their own. I absolutely LOVED the characters of Mei Li and Marcus their innocents and curiosity, coming into their emotions and not running from them when they felt they should. I especially have a personal understanding of Marcus as I was also the product of teen “love” that burned out too quickly. While my mom wasn’t as extreme as Marcus’s dad I had similar rules, my mother was terrified I would be a teen mom too, but I did things the “proper” way, married and then kids. Life is what you make it, our decisions shape them and when parents feel they made mistakes and force those changes on their kids they create unimaginable fears. I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more books from these authors, they have captured my heart with Mei Li and Marcus, and I will eagerly devour anything that comes next.
January 9, 2024
This book wrecked me, and I loved it. Such a heartbreaking, beautiful and raw look at young love, first love, coming of age, and deciding how you want to live your life, not how others want you to live it.
Yall, I don't even know where to start. I absolutely loved Mei Li and Marcus! There was so much depth and emotion written into their characters. The dual pov was perfect to be able to see into both of their minds, and how similarly yet differently they were processing their situation, and the same for their seperate lives/situations. They were very relatable in their thoughts and actions as young adults. It was easy to understand those big feelings of falling in love for the first time and trying to understand those emotions. Being happy, scared, confused all at the same time, we all know how that feels. The tension...chef's kiss! The tension between them was so palpable, you could feel it coming off the page.
Marcus, oh my goodness, he is such a cinnamon roll! He fell head over heels for Mei Li and he wasn't afraid to show it or do whatever he needed to do for her. I loved their notes and the unconventional way that they passed them back and forth. Also, seeing their text messages was so fun. Mei Li, my heart just went out to her. She had so much on her shoulders at such a young age. She is incredibly strong to deal with these tough things for so long, and trying to take care of her family. I admire her growth, and how she finally decided to choose what was right, despite the consequences. All of the side characters were written so well, too. Guo Mama, absolutely love her and how she took a mother role in Mei Li and Marcus' life and helped them when as much as possible. Nick, we hate him and he got exactly what he deserved. I knew he was a terrible person. The whole cast made you feel exactly what they were supposed to, whether is was love, hate, laughs, and everything in between.
The intricacies of the characters and the plot were woven perfectly together. While at the heart of this story is a story of first love, it is surrounded by a lot of tough and dark themes that you wouldn't expect. There's also, several plot twists that I did not see coming! And don't get me started on the cliffhanger at the end. I'm a wreck and I can't wait to read the next book. READ THIS BOOK. Please. It grips you from page one, and takes your heart with it at the end. And it's so so amazing.
Thank you Nicole Allen and Emily Cox for this book in exchange for my honest review!
Yall, I don't even know where to start. I absolutely loved Mei Li and Marcus! There was so much depth and emotion written into their characters. The dual pov was perfect to be able to see into both of their minds, and how similarly yet differently they were processing their situation, and the same for their seperate lives/situations. They were very relatable in their thoughts and actions as young adults. It was easy to understand those big feelings of falling in love for the first time and trying to understand those emotions. Being happy, scared, confused all at the same time, we all know how that feels. The tension...chef's kiss! The tension between them was so palpable, you could feel it coming off the page.
Marcus, oh my goodness, he is such a cinnamon roll! He fell head over heels for Mei Li and he wasn't afraid to show it or do whatever he needed to do for her. I loved their notes and the unconventional way that they passed them back and forth. Also, seeing their text messages was so fun. Mei Li, my heart just went out to her. She had so much on her shoulders at such a young age. She is incredibly strong to deal with these tough things for so long, and trying to take care of her family. I admire her growth, and how she finally decided to choose what was right, despite the consequences. All of the side characters were written so well, too. Guo Mama, absolutely love her and how she took a mother role in Mei Li and Marcus' life and helped them when as much as possible. Nick, we hate him and he got exactly what he deserved. I knew he was a terrible person. The whole cast made you feel exactly what they were supposed to, whether is was love, hate, laughs, and everything in between.
The intricacies of the characters and the plot were woven perfectly together. While at the heart of this story is a story of first love, it is surrounded by a lot of tough and dark themes that you wouldn't expect. There's also, several plot twists that I did not see coming! And don't get me started on the cliffhanger at the end. I'm a wreck and I can't wait to read the next book. READ THIS BOOK. Please. It grips you from page one, and takes your heart with it at the end. And it's so so amazing.
Thank you Nicole Allen and Emily Cox for this book in exchange for my honest review!
January 29, 2024
(ARC)
The other side of together follows Marcus Miller, a golden boy with a bright future who makes a deal with his dad to stay away from girls until he graduates. However, when life unexpected throws Mei Li Zhang, a young Taiwanese aspiring chef with some dangerous secrets into his path, his life is forever changed.
(Warning, contains some heavy subjects and material)
Rating - 4.5/5 stars
I can’t say I’ve read many YA romances recently, but I am so glad I read this one. I absolutely fell in love with both Marcus and Mei Li. Their story was so beautiful and unique that I couldn’t stop reading even if I tried. Both family loyalty and trauma play a massive part in this book, which only added to the rawness and realistic beauty of this coming-of-age romance.
I know not many people are fans of complicated and messy relationships, but in The Other Side of Together it just works! Neither party is ever particularly in the wrong, they just have their own things to work through as their lives become more and more entangled.
The only reason this book wasn’t five stars for me was because there was some little bits I just didn’t get along with, but overall I can happily say I’d probably read this again and I definitely need more of Mei Li and Marcus!
The other side of together follows Marcus Miller, a golden boy with a bright future who makes a deal with his dad to stay away from girls until he graduates. However, when life unexpected throws Mei Li Zhang, a young Taiwanese aspiring chef with some dangerous secrets into his path, his life is forever changed.
(Warning, contains some heavy subjects and material)
Rating - 4.5/5 stars
I can’t say I’ve read many YA romances recently, but I am so glad I read this one. I absolutely fell in love with both Marcus and Mei Li. Their story was so beautiful and unique that I couldn’t stop reading even if I tried. Both family loyalty and trauma play a massive part in this book, which only added to the rawness and realistic beauty of this coming-of-age romance.
I know not many people are fans of complicated and messy relationships, but in The Other Side of Together it just works! Neither party is ever particularly in the wrong, they just have their own things to work through as their lives become more and more entangled.
The only reason this book wasn’t five stars for me was because there was some little bits I just didn’t get along with, but overall I can happily say I’d probably read this again and I definitely need more of Mei Li and Marcus!
February 1, 2024
4 stars
Young adult authors Emily Cox and Nicole Allen bring us a sweet tale. It is my first time reading anything they have written, and I was pleasantly surprised.
This is a clean YA romance that has a lot of raw emotions involved because it has some pretty dark heavy hitting content, but the authors do this well. It is heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time. A nail biting, rollercoaster of emotions kind of story.
The story is told in my favourite way of writing characters, dual POV which gives the story much more depth and insight and the characters are much more believable. There are characters you will absolutely love and then there are characters you will absolutely hate.
You always remember your first love and The Other Side of Together is a raw and beautiful yet heartbreaking story of young teenage love.
I will not give away any spoilers but suffice it to say the tension is palpable, have tissues on hand, a stiff drink or three and expect a laugh or two at times.
There are a few twists and there is a cliffhanger so now I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.
Young adult authors Emily Cox and Nicole Allen bring us a sweet tale. It is my first time reading anything they have written, and I was pleasantly surprised.
This is a clean YA romance that has a lot of raw emotions involved because it has some pretty dark heavy hitting content, but the authors do this well. It is heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time. A nail biting, rollercoaster of emotions kind of story.
The story is told in my favourite way of writing characters, dual POV which gives the story much more depth and insight and the characters are much more believable. There are characters you will absolutely love and then there are characters you will absolutely hate.
You always remember your first love and The Other Side of Together is a raw and beautiful yet heartbreaking story of young teenage love.
I will not give away any spoilers but suffice it to say the tension is palpable, have tissues on hand, a stiff drink or three and expect a laugh or two at times.
There are a few twists and there is a cliffhanger so now I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.
February 2, 2024
All of the emotions of first love are showcased in this book, with a heaping dose of action and danger. Mei Li and Marcus come from two different worlds. Mei Li is bound to Nick, a family friend who is pretty much a giant jerk. He has helped her and her family move from Taiwan to San Francisco and helped them to open a restaurant. Marcus is a talented soccer player forbidden to date because of a bad experience his dad had as a teen.
At first they trade notes and fortunes but soon something deeper evolves between Marcus and Mei Li. The cannot get enough of each other, even when it puts them in danger. Are they meant to be or is this just a fleeting moment in time? What are the dark secrets in Mei Li’s world?
I really, really liked this book. The authors did a great job portraying these two different characters from two different worlds that come together. The chapters alternated perspectives between Mei Li and Marcus and I enjoyed the opportunity to see inside their thoughts and feelings. This book seems very authentic in the issues being presented. The characters are well developed and likable, well except for Nick, of course. This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
At first they trade notes and fortunes but soon something deeper evolves between Marcus and Mei Li. The cannot get enough of each other, even when it puts them in danger. Are they meant to be or is this just a fleeting moment in time? What are the dark secrets in Mei Li’s world?
I really, really liked this book. The authors did a great job portraying these two different characters from two different worlds that come together. The chapters alternated perspectives between Mei Li and Marcus and I enjoyed the opportunity to see inside their thoughts and feelings. This book seems very authentic in the issues being presented. The characters are well developed and likable, well except for Nick, of course. This was a great read and I highly recommend it.
January 24, 2024
I was not expecting to be so emotionally wrecked by this book. *Lays face down on the floor and sobs* And that cliffhanger? What was that all about?! I need book two immediately.
The Other Side of Together was such a wonderful read. I devoured it in a day but then needed some time to think on it before I was ready to write up a review. Even now, I’m not exactly sure how to get my thoughts down on paper.
This book touched on some dark, heavy topics but also remained so full of hope. It broke my heart then managed to stitch it back together again. Somewhat. Only to be left on a cliffhanger. *cries harder*
Marcus and Mei Li were perfect together. They were incredibly adorable and fit together so perfectly. Definitely a dynamic duo! Their love story was so sweet, painful, and resilient. They had their ups and down but I loved watching them work through those, even when it seemed impossible.
The authors did a fantastic job of portraying “teen love”. From the passing notes (through fortune cookies, which is extra adorable), staying up until 4am texting, and the can’t eat and can’t sleep kind of love, it was very clear I was reading a teenage love story. The dual POV gave me a clear look inside the head and thought process of both Marcus and Mei Li. I got to know each character so well.
Not only did this book have the warm fuzzies of a sweet love story, but it had depth and meaning. I am so excited to read book two.
.
.
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*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own.*
The Other Side of Together was such a wonderful read. I devoured it in a day but then needed some time to think on it before I was ready to write up a review. Even now, I’m not exactly sure how to get my thoughts down on paper.
This book touched on some dark, heavy topics but also remained so full of hope. It broke my heart then managed to stitch it back together again. Somewhat. Only to be left on a cliffhanger. *cries harder*
Marcus and Mei Li were perfect together. They were incredibly adorable and fit together so perfectly. Definitely a dynamic duo! Their love story was so sweet, painful, and resilient. They had their ups and down but I loved watching them work through those, even when it seemed impossible.
The authors did a fantastic job of portraying “teen love”. From the passing notes (through fortune cookies, which is extra adorable), staying up until 4am texting, and the can’t eat and can’t sleep kind of love, it was very clear I was reading a teenage love story. The dual POV gave me a clear look inside the head and thought process of both Marcus and Mei Li. I got to know each character so well.
Not only did this book have the warm fuzzies of a sweet love story, but it had depth and meaning. I am so excited to read book two.
.
.
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*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts expressed are strictly my own.*
January 31, 2024
The Other Side Of Together is a captivating, charming, heartwarming, heartbreaking, beautiful, and emotional roller coaster of a book! This YA romance plays a dance with your heart sparking hope, leaving an ache, and reminiscing first loves. All the cute sweet moments you'd hope to be in a romance is there, but a crashing complexity and depth accompany it. This story will leave you on the edge of your seat as you root for an impossible love to get a shot and take it.
Marcus and Mei Li are wonderful characters who couldn't be any different. Their individual challenges and perspective all add depth to the story. I particularly feel for Mei Li who bears the weight of keeping her family in America and struggles with all the lying. She deals with things most adults never have to and she is so young. I loved this book!
Marcus and Mei Li are wonderful characters who couldn't be any different. Their individual challenges and perspective all add depth to the story. I particularly feel for Mei Li who bears the weight of keeping her family in America and struggles with all the lying. She deals with things most adults never have to and she is so young. I loved this book!
March 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This is a story of first love but not a sweet and fluffy one.
Mei Lin and Marcus lifes couldn’t be any more different she come from an immigrant family that in some way is being blackmailed by a thug he wants Mei Lin to be his and he won’t take no for an answer.
Marcus father has made him swear off women because of what happened with his mother that abandoned them both.
I was not expecting the story to be full of such heavy topics as sex trafficking and SA. So check your triggers before reaching this.
The romance was exactly as when first love hits full of excitement and somewhat impulsive decisions. What made the book more interesting was the second half of the book where all the action happened.
I’m looking forward to see where the next book will take these two characters.
✨Thanks to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for thw gifted copy.
This is a story of first love but not a sweet and fluffy one.
Mei Lin and Marcus lifes couldn’t be any more different she come from an immigrant family that in some way is being blackmailed by a thug he wants Mei Lin to be his and he won’t take no for an answer.
Marcus father has made him swear off women because of what happened with his mother that abandoned them both.
I was not expecting the story to be full of such heavy topics as sex trafficking and SA. So check your triggers before reaching this.
The romance was exactly as when first love hits full of excitement and somewhat impulsive decisions. What made the book more interesting was the second half of the book where all the action happened.
I’m looking forward to see where the next book will take these two characters.
✨Thanks to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for thw gifted copy.
March 13, 2025
Thought provoking
A vivid, fast paced teenage dreams that shows that while everyone has hopes and dreams, they aren't all the same and they aren't all for the same reason.
Well written, engaging, modern yet clean, this is a book that I would recommend again and again.
Marcus doesn't really believe in love and has sworn off girls in lue of a prize motorcycle.
Mei just wants out, away from her angry and abusive dad and the hidden life she's lived the last decade.
Life and love throw unexpected obstacles in their paths, and the threats in Mei's life holds the biggest ones.
A vivid, fast paced teenage dreams that shows that while everyone has hopes and dreams, they aren't all the same and they aren't all for the same reason.
Well written, engaging, modern yet clean, this is a book that I would recommend again and again.
Marcus doesn't really believe in love and has sworn off girls in lue of a prize motorcycle.
Mei just wants out, away from her angry and abusive dad and the hidden life she's lived the last decade.
Life and love throw unexpected obstacles in their paths, and the threats in Mei's life holds the biggest ones.
February 1, 2024
I devoured the last half of this book. Emily and Nicole have such a fun, easy to read writing style. Their characters will have you flipping the pages so fast, making sure everyone you love makes it out okay. The Other Side of Together is a contemporary romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes set in San Francisco's China Town, where keeping and telling secrets could mean life or death.
This book has some mature themes, so I would recommend reading it first before giving it to younger teens. Overall, I loved the witty prose and dangerous plot.
This book has some mature themes, so I would recommend reading it first before giving it to younger teens. Overall, I loved the witty prose and dangerous plot.
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