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The Other Side of Together #2
The Other Side of Apart
A powerful first love story that pulls you into the beauty and struggles of fighting for what you want despite the odds.
Weaving the darkness of past hurt with the light of new romance, The Other Side of Apart is perfect for fans of Jandy Nelson and Amber Smith.
Marcus had life figured out—a hard earned 4.0, hours of intense soccer training, and a full-ride to Stanford to kickstart his dream future. Running away with his secret girlfriend to escape a crazed criminal was never part of his plan.
But Mei Li is worth leaving perfection behind for even if she’s tangled in her family’s lies and has a stalker ex-boyfriend. She’s funny, sexy, brave, and most of all—impossibly—she and Marcus are together again. So worth it.
However, together isn't the rings-on-their-fingers, back-of-the-motorcycle perfect they’d hoped it would be.
Marcus desperately clings to the dream future he still wants while Mei is haunted by memories of her abusive past. So when that past catches up to them, fear, doubt and painful consequences threaten to tear them apart...no matter how fast or far they run.
Weaving the darkness of past hurt with the light of new romance, The Other Side of Apart is perfect for fans of Jandy Nelson and Amber Smith.
Marcus had life figured out—a hard earned 4.0, hours of intense soccer training, and a full-ride to Stanford to kickstart his dream future. Running away with his secret girlfriend to escape a crazed criminal was never part of his plan.
But Mei Li is worth leaving perfection behind for even if she’s tangled in her family’s lies and has a stalker ex-boyfriend. She’s funny, sexy, brave, and most of all—impossibly—she and Marcus are together again. So worth it.
However, together isn't the rings-on-their-fingers, back-of-the-motorcycle perfect they’d hoped it would be.
Marcus desperately clings to the dream future he still wants while Mei is haunted by memories of her abusive past. So when that past catches up to them, fear, doubt and painful consequences threaten to tear them apart...no matter how fast or far they run.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
5 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 5, 2025
Emily and Nicole did it again! The absolute adventure that this book took me on was amazing! And the way it perfectly continued from The Other Side Of Together was so well done. The cliffhanger again though will be the death of me!
Marcus and Mei Li are such a sweet example of young true love. The way they put each other first, stay committed to their relationship, and cling to each other through the hard times is so beautiful to read. The challenges and trials they face, and the hurdles they have to jump through to be together keeps you on the edge of your seat. I was feeling so many emotions throughout this book. Just like the first book, it is a perfect mix of romance, humor, adventure, thrills, and even a bit of mystery sprinkled throughout. And the ending?! Oh my gosh the ending… I am now in a slump and sitting here rocking back and forth waiting for book three. I need more!
Thank you, Emily and Nicole for the opportunity to read and review your wonderful work again! So excited for the next one!
Marcus and Mei Li are such a sweet example of young true love. The way they put each other first, stay committed to their relationship, and cling to each other through the hard times is so beautiful to read. The challenges and trials they face, and the hurdles they have to jump through to be together keeps you on the edge of your seat. I was feeling so many emotions throughout this book. Just like the first book, it is a perfect mix of romance, humor, adventure, thrills, and even a bit of mystery sprinkled throughout. And the ending?! Oh my gosh the ending… I am now in a slump and sitting here rocking back and forth waiting for book three. I need more!
Thank you, Emily and Nicole for the opportunity to read and review your wonderful work again! So excited for the next one!
February 6, 2026
What I loved most about this sequel is that it doesn’t waste a single second. It picks up exactly where the first book ended, providing a seamless continuation of a story that clearly has so much more to tell.
The Highlights
Authentic Character Growth: Marcus and Mei Li are captivating, but the authors don't shield them from their own youth. They are still young, somewhat naive, and forced to filter through a massive amount of trauma and emotion.
The "Frustration" Factor: This book is a total rollercoaster. I found myself yelling, "C’mon guys, get it together!" more than once. However, that’s actually a testament to the writing—the author captures that specific brand of teenage confidence where you think you know how to solve the world’s problems, only to realize adulthood is much more complex.
High Stakes: Watching them navigate the "ups and downs" kept me turning pages. You feel their exhaustion and their hope in equal measure; but there were a lot of moments of frustration for them.
Final Thoughts
It’s rare to find a book that makes you want to shake the characters one minute and hug them the next. I’m leaning into the tension, despite the frustration, and honestly can't wait to see how they finally end up on "the other side" of all this chaos.
The Highlights
Authentic Character Growth: Marcus and Mei Li are captivating, but the authors don't shield them from their own youth. They are still young, somewhat naive, and forced to filter through a massive amount of trauma and emotion.
The "Frustration" Factor: This book is a total rollercoaster. I found myself yelling, "C’mon guys, get it together!" more than once. However, that’s actually a testament to the writing—the author captures that specific brand of teenage confidence where you think you know how to solve the world’s problems, only to realize adulthood is much more complex.
High Stakes: Watching them navigate the "ups and downs" kept me turning pages. You feel their exhaustion and their hope in equal measure; but there were a lot of moments of frustration for them.
Final Thoughts
It’s rare to find a book that makes you want to shake the characters one minute and hug them the next. I’m leaning into the tension, despite the frustration, and honestly can't wait to see how they finally end up on "the other side" of all this chaos.
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February 5, 2026The Other Side of Apart by Emily Cox & Nicole Allen is an emotional and fast-paced young adult romance that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Picking up right after the first book in the series, this story follows Marcus and Mei Li as they try to start a life together while wrestling with danger, fear, and their own dreams.
What makes this book stand out is the depth of its characters and the raw intensity of their connection. Marcus and Mei Li are believable and relatable, each facing real challenges that test not only their love but also their sense of self. The authors’ dual point-of-view approach lets you get inside both of their minds, making their fears and hopes feel personal.
There’s plenty of action and tension, from moments of danger to emotional hurdles that keep the story moving, but at its core is a relationship that feels urgent, tender, and real. The adventure, suspense, and emotional complexity make it more than just a romance — it’s a ride of love, sacrifice, and growth.
If you enjoy contemporary YA with sweeping emotional arcs and characters you’ll care about, this book is a strong follow-up to the first installment. Be warned: the ending leaves you eager for the next book!
What makes this book stand out is the depth of its characters and the raw intensity of their connection. Marcus and Mei Li are believable and relatable, each facing real challenges that test not only their love but also their sense of self. The authors’ dual point-of-view approach lets you get inside both of their minds, making their fears and hopes feel personal.
There’s plenty of action and tension, from moments of danger to emotional hurdles that keep the story moving, but at its core is a relationship that feels urgent, tender, and real. The adventure, suspense, and emotional complexity make it more than just a romance — it’s a ride of love, sacrifice, and growth.
If you enjoy contemporary YA with sweeping emotional arcs and characters you’ll care about, this book is a strong follow-up to the first installment. Be warned: the ending leaves you eager for the next book!
February 23, 2026
After escaping the depths of danger surrounding Mei’s life, she and Marcus flee together to patch old wounds and start a new life together. What was once naive young love transforms into all of the struggles of young newlyweds on an extreme level as they continue to navigate their relationship, keeping one eye over their shoulder for enemies and danger.
The character development and relationships develop beautifully from the first book in the series to this second piece. There is more depth, more substance, more passion, and more pain—higher stakes, higher rewards. The journey that Mei and Marcus find themselves taking is adventurous, playful, and dancing around danger. It’s gripping and entertaining and has you rooting for their young love until the end. There’s a cliffhanger that leaves you needing to know, where will their story end?
Devoured this in a day and started the final book, coming out in 3 days, immediately after! Recommend to anyone who likes romance, YA books, and adventure.
The character development and relationships develop beautifully from the first book in the series to this second piece. There is more depth, more substance, more passion, and more pain—higher stakes, higher rewards. The journey that Mei and Marcus find themselves taking is adventurous, playful, and dancing around danger. It’s gripping and entertaining and has you rooting for their young love until the end. There’s a cliffhanger that leaves you needing to know, where will their story end?
Devoured this in a day and started the final book, coming out in 3 days, immediately after! Recommend to anyone who likes romance, YA books, and adventure.
February 7, 2026
This YA romance is the second in the series. It picks up right where Marcus and Mei Li's story left off.
Their story is written in a dual-style, which I liked, so you understand each of their thought processes. This book focuses on the lengths Marcus and Mei Li are willing to go through for love. All while they are being chased across the country by a very dangerous man. There's a thriller aspect in this book that holds your interest.
Mainly it reflects on the intense feelings of first love and the work that goes into it. What are you willing to sacrifice to stay safe and be with to one you love?
It's an action filled book.
I'm eager to see where the final book takes their story.
Their story is written in a dual-style, which I liked, so you understand each of their thought processes. This book focuses on the lengths Marcus and Mei Li are willing to go through for love. All while they are being chased across the country by a very dangerous man. There's a thriller aspect in this book that holds your interest.
Mainly it reflects on the intense feelings of first love and the work that goes into it. What are you willing to sacrifice to stay safe and be with to one you love?
It's an action filled book.
I'm eager to see where the final book takes their story.
March 12, 2026
These ladies do not miss they took the momentum from the last book and tripled it. This had me feeling things that the characters were feeling and I felt like I was there with them it is so well written and I can’t stop till I know how Marcus and Mei’s story ends. One of the easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given
February 4, 2026
HOLY MOLEY. I’d like to thank God and my son for the 4 hour nap he took this morning that allowed me to devour this story in under 8 hours. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything so quickly or so desperately. I can’t believe how it ended and need book three STAT because my blood pressure can’t take it.
Because I refuse to share spoilers I will just say I LOVEEEE Marcus and Guo and I still hate Nick. I wanted to hate Ray but he’s earned some redemption and sympathy so we’ll see where he ends up in book 3.
But Marcus. Swoooooooon. Major swoon. Love his character so much. Felt all his emotions as if he were standing in front of me and hope all is good in the world even more so for him than for Mei Li.
Thank you ladies for this book. I’m ruined, I need part 3 to put me back together.
Because I refuse to share spoilers I will just say I LOVEEEE Marcus and Guo and I still hate Nick. I wanted to hate Ray but he’s earned some redemption and sympathy so we’ll see where he ends up in book 3.
But Marcus. Swoooooooon. Major swoon. Love his character so much. Felt all his emotions as if he were standing in front of me and hope all is good in the world even more so for him than for Mei Li.
Thank you ladies for this book. I’m ruined, I need part 3 to put me back together.
February 10, 2026
The rush that the first book ended with is exactly how the first began. The rollercoaster of emotions had me reading this as fast as my eyes would let me. Such real, raw, and intense emotions! I can’t wait for the third!
March 14, 2026
Was such a perfect continuation of the first book and was packed full of so much adventure and love
April 1, 2025
Thanks to Emily Cox and Nicole Allen for the gifted ARC.
4.5 ⭐️🥠This book starts right after the first installment Marcus and Mei Lin after they decided to leave everything behind and start anew escaping their old lives and the danger that was hunting them.
💔Their journey was full of hardships and obstacles. But at the end they had each other and their love. What I love most about this story was Marcus that no matter what happened he was always choosing Mei Lin even though he had to sacrifice all his dreams to be with her. She on the other hand was not my favorite because she kept keeping up things from him and questioning his loyalty even though he kept running away every time. But at the same time I could understand her fears.
🖤The ending was very dramatic and I love it. I hope these two get the HEA they both deserve in the next book.
If you love Boys of Tommen Series I think this will be a perfect read for you.
4.5 ⭐️🥠This book starts right after the first installment Marcus and Mei Lin after they decided to leave everything behind and start anew escaping their old lives and the danger that was hunting them.
💔Their journey was full of hardships and obstacles. But at the end they had each other and their love. What I love most about this story was Marcus that no matter what happened he was always choosing Mei Lin even though he had to sacrifice all his dreams to be with her. She on the other hand was not my favorite because she kept keeping up things from him and questioning his loyalty even though he kept running away every time. But at the same time I could understand her fears.
🖤The ending was very dramatic and I love it. I hope these two get the HEA they both deserve in the next book.
If you love Boys of Tommen Series I think this will be a perfect read for you.
March 28, 2025
This book is everything. All the feels. All the hard things about marriage and love and newness. Pain, joy, humor, angst, sorrow, grief. Love this newest installment.
February 20, 2026
For a YA romance, this book has effected me more then it should. Marcus you sweet sweet boy, you just melt my heart at every turn. Mei you brave girl with so much resilience you are a strong girl but you need to open up! Can’t wait to dive into book 3!!
February 22, 2026
Yet again another amazing story! Can't say much beings it's the second in a trilogy.
March 5, 2026
Such a heartfelt and emotionally grounded story. The characters are fully realized, and the writing brings their struggles and connections to life in a sincere way. I cared deeply about both of them, and the emotional stakes felt genuine.
There were a few plot beats I wanted even deeper exploration on, but overall this was a touching, thoughtful read that stayed with me after the last page.
There were a few plot beats I wanted even deeper exploration on, but overall this was a touching, thoughtful read that stayed with me after the last page.
February 11, 2026
Marcus and Mei Li are on the run from Nick, who thinks Mei is his, even after assaulting her. Marcus had his future all set, a scholarship to Stanford, a 4.0 and he walked away from it all to protect the love of his life, Mei. I have been unable to put this down, it’s a must read about young love, their ever changing life and running with fear. It will pull on your heartstrings. @emandnicwrite
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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February 25, 2026
What a roller coaster of highs and lows for these two kids. Their love for each other is so palpable and their circumstances test them in a way that most would call it quits. I can’t wait to see how the trilogy ends - the perfect combo of young love and crime!!
March 19, 2026
I will say, this felt like it should have been in the same book as the first. The romance chapters, the running away and restarting, the arguments, etc....I did not enjoy that, and I almost felt relieved when Marcus because it meant the plot would start moving again. Things started getting interesting again in the third half of the book.
I will say, the book is moving into the realm of horror for me - teenagers is not a love story to me. The two of them have a codependent relationship that's bordering on toxic half the time.
I felt sad about Chaz . Nick is a piece of work, and I hope they apprehend him in the last book.
Thank you to Emily and Nicole for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I will say, the book is moving into the realm of horror for me - teenagers is not a love story to me. The two of them have a codependent relationship that's bordering on toxic half the time.
I felt sad about Chaz . Nick is a piece of work, and I hope they apprehend him in the last book.
Thank you to Emily and Nicole for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 8, 2026
The second book in this series didn't disappoint!! Emily & Nicole have done it again! I appreciated how the story picked right where it left off. I loved how the depth of characters continued & the consistency of the dual pov. There were many twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The relationship between Mei & Marcus was full of headaches, growth, determination, and sacrifice. I appreciated the authors ability to hide Easter eggs that
connected to the end cliff hanger!!!!
Thank you to Emily & Nicole for giving me the opportunity to read and review your series!! I am beyond thrilled to read #3
connected to the end cliff hanger!!!!
Thank you to Emily & Nicole for giving me the opportunity to read and review your series!! I am beyond thrilled to read #3
April 8, 2025
If you like contemporary romance about young love, you’re in for a wild ride with this one.
This story sweeps you up and immerses you in the turbulent life of Marcus and Mei. Full disclosure, it’s not my favorite genre, and personally I didn’t love the story, but I still found myself getting lost in it and wondering what was going to happen next, so I can imagine someone who enjoys contemporary romance more enjoying this book. Their relationship is their guiding star, for better or worse, and this book dives deep into both. It’s hectic and surprising and frustrating, but I was still rooting for the characters the whole time.
This story sweeps you up and immerses you in the turbulent life of Marcus and Mei. Full disclosure, it’s not my favorite genre, and personally I didn’t love the story, but I still found myself getting lost in it and wondering what was going to happen next, so I can imagine someone who enjoys contemporary romance more enjoying this book. Their relationship is their guiding star, for better or worse, and this book dives deep into both. It’s hectic and surprising and frustrating, but I was still rooting for the characters the whole time.
April 21, 2025
This is a YA romance which is outside my usual chosen read, but I’m trying to broaden my reading parameters so I gave this one a go.
You can tell that this is the second in the series. It did a good job of filling in gaps since I didn’t read the first.
The book has lots of action along with a very intense romance for this couple. They are being chased by a really bad guy and it takes them across the country.
I liked the dual points of view. I would like to go back and read the first in the series to get a feel of how these two connected. The ending left me wanting to read the next in the series so mission accomplished on getting me hooked.
You can tell that this is the second in the series. It did a good job of filling in gaps since I didn’t read the first.
The book has lots of action along with a very intense romance for this couple. They are being chased by a really bad guy and it takes them across the country.
I liked the dual points of view. I would like to go back and read the first in the series to get a feel of how these two connected. The ending left me wanting to read the next in the series so mission accomplished on getting me hooked.
March 28, 2025
Powerful book ....... otherside of together was a powerful important message. I loved reading that story and was so excited to read this book .... this book did not disappoint. To write a spoiler free review, the only words I can think to use about this book are powerful and emotional. I will be waiting on pins and needles for book 3 ..... please, monster ivy, don't make me have to wait long.......
February 17, 2026
Absolutely loving the rollercoaster and change of pace this book brought me. Can say the first 2 books have been very YA friendly which is amazing as so many YA books I would not call YA. If you’re looking for witty comebacks, rollercoaster of emotions, a love that just keeps pushing through no matter what obstacles get thrown their way then this is for you. Can say I will be reading this series more than once! So glad I stumbled across the ARC calling for the third book in this series which made me read the first 2 books! can’t wait to read the final book in this trilogy but I know I’m going to be left heartbroken when it ends 💔
March 7, 2026
A beautiful and direct continuation to the first book, it was so easy to follow Marcus and Mei Lin navigate new aspects of life together while facing challenges after challenges. Their connection only grew stronger, and being able to feel the emotions through their words kept me reading till the end once again. I cannot wait for the final instalment to the series. Definitely another book for the shelf :) Thanks Emily and Nicole!
February 18, 2026
This book was even better than book 1!! I enjoy how Emily and Nichole made the story moving without plot holes, but there were also moments where we could see Marcus and Mei Li as teenagers in love with each other.
I also really like the fade to black aspect. I think it kept the story sweet and appropriate for some younger readers.
Plus, the ending was so tough to read and was such a cliffhanger :(
Overall, I would put this as a 4.5/5! Loved it and excited for book #3!
I also really like the fade to black aspect. I think it kept the story sweet and appropriate for some younger readers.
Plus, the ending was so tough to read and was such a cliffhanger :(
Overall, I would put this as a 4.5/5! Loved it and excited for book #3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2026
More drama! Zigs and zags. Enjoyable. Can’t wait to read the 3rd!
March 30, 2025
This was such an emotional read, it took me a few days to gather my thoughts for a review. Such a Rollercoaster of Emotions! A very well written Saga of young love, turmoil, and a real relationship and the work that goes into it. I can't wait for the next book in this series, especially after where the ending of this book left us!!
February 9, 2026
I loved this book soooo very much!!! Best series ever!!!
March 14, 2026
This book continues the story of Mei Li and Marcus. All the odds are against them, but they’re fighting for the love they have for one another. More than your average first love, this couple has had to endure and overcome so much and they can’t catch a break. But they’re showing up for one another time and time again and not giving up despite the heaviness of life. This book sets up book 3 perfectly. My heart hurts for Mei and Marcus and rooting for their happily ever after.
March 10, 2026
This story is a breathtaking journey through the messy, beautiful chaos of love and survival. Marcus and Mei leap off the page—so real, so vulnerable, so determined to cling to each other in a world that seems intent on pulling them apart. Their chemistry is electric, their struggles achingly authentic, and the emotional stakes skyrocket with every page.
What makes this book so moving isn’t just the runaway romance, but the way it explores the cost of perfection and the courage it takes to choose love in the face of fear. Marcus’s longing for control, Mei’s battle with her past, and the danger that shadows them both will break your heart and also make it soar. I was rooting for them with every breathless twist and every tender moment.
If you’ve ever wanted a love story that’s equal parts adrenaline and heart, one that honors the difficulties of healing and the hope of new beginnings, this book delivers. Prepare to be swept away—and to remember Marcus and Mei long after the last page.
What makes this book so moving isn’t just the runaway romance, but the way it explores the cost of perfection and the courage it takes to choose love in the face of fear. Marcus’s longing for control, Mei’s battle with her past, and the danger that shadows them both will break your heart and also make it soar. I was rooting for them with every breathless twist and every tender moment.
If you’ve ever wanted a love story that’s equal parts adrenaline and heart, one that honors the difficulties of healing and the hope of new beginnings, this book delivers. Prepare to be swept away—and to remember Marcus and Mei long after the last page.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews