Other Year
Rea Frey
Reader Reviews
4.0
1 rating
Mandy S.
Feb 8, 2026
“The Other Year” by Rea Frey is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the delicate balance between joy and sorrow. The story centers on Kate Baker, a working mom whose two-week beach vacation takes a harrowing turn when her nine-year-old daughter, Olivia, vanishes beneath the waves. In one reality, Olivia resurfaces joyously, while in another, she tragically does not. This dual narrative structure is both captivating and heart-wrenching, as it delves into the profound impact of a single moment on Kate's life.
The novel's strength lies in its compelling portrayal of Kate's parallel lives. In the timeline where Olivia is lost, Kate's journey through grief, rage, and the search for purpose is rendered with deep emotional authenticity. The author skillfully navigates the complex terrain of a mother's worst nightmare, making Kate's pain and resilience palpable. This part of the story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact loss can have and the strength required to endure such a tragedy.
In the alternate timeline, where Olivia survives, Kate's life is equally complex but marked by different challenges. The tremulous romance with her best friend, Jason, and the re-emergence of her estranged ex-husband add layers of tension and emotional depth. This timeline explores the nuances of holding on to love while grappling with the fear of losing it, highlighting the fragility of joy and the constant undercurrent of potential loss.
The parallel timelines are woven together seamlessly, allowing readers to experience the drastic polarities that define Kate's existence. The narrative is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, offering a rich exploration of the sharp turns any life can take in the blink of an eye.
The exceptional narration by Brittany Pressley elevates the novel further, bringing the characters to life with nuanced performances that capture the emotional weight of each timeline. Her voice adds an extra layer of depth and immersion, making the listening experience truly unforgettable.
This is a beautifully crafted story that delves into the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Its exploration of love, loss, and the profound impact of a single moment is both moving and insightful. This novel is a must-read for those who appreciate stories that challenge the boundaries of reality and tug at the heartstrings.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy (audiobook) in exchange for my honest review.
The novel's strength lies in its compelling portrayal of Kate's parallel lives. In the timeline where Olivia is lost, Kate's journey through grief, rage, and the search for purpose is rendered with deep emotional authenticity. The author skillfully navigates the complex terrain of a mother's worst nightmare, making Kate's pain and resilience palpable. This part of the story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact loss can have and the strength required to endure such a tragedy.
In the alternate timeline, where Olivia survives, Kate's life is equally complex but marked by different challenges. The tremulous romance with her best friend, Jason, and the re-emergence of her estranged ex-husband add layers of tension and emotional depth. This timeline explores the nuances of holding on to love while grappling with the fear of losing it, highlighting the fragility of joy and the constant undercurrent of potential loss.
The parallel timelines are woven together seamlessly, allowing readers to experience the drastic polarities that define Kate's existence. The narrative is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, offering a rich exploration of the sharp turns any life can take in the blink of an eye.
The exceptional narration by Brittany Pressley elevates the novel further, bringing the characters to life with nuanced performances that capture the emotional weight of each timeline. Her voice adds an extra layer of depth and immersion, making the listening experience truly unforgettable.
This is a beautifully crafted story that delves into the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Its exploration of love, loss, and the profound impact of a single moment is both moving and insightful. This novel is a must-read for those who appreciate stories that challenge the boundaries of reality and tug at the heartstrings.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy (audiobook) in exchange for my honest review.