There’s something incredibly liberating about being surrounded by nature. Immersing myself in the unspoiled wilderness, far from the stresses of daily life, is my ultimate escape. I find complete peace in those moments, allowing myself to truly relax and be present. Despite being a place of solace, the wilderness can also be unforgiving. In her latest novel, The Nature of Disappearing, author Kimi Cunningham Grant uses the vast wilderness to craft a tale that highlights its serenity and harshness. I’ve been eager to read her work since her previous novel, These Silent Woods, caught my attention a couple of years ago. Thanks to her publisher’s generosity, I had the opportunity to read and listen to her newest creation.
Emlyn knows firsthand the healing power of nature. A few years ago, she hit rock bottom. Her best friend Janessa couldn’t accept Emlyn dating Tyler, especially after she warned her against the relationship. But Emlyn was in love and wouldn’t let her friend’s opinion stop her. Unfortunately, Janessa was right. Three years ago, Tyler left Emlyn stranded on the side of the road in the freezing cold, half dead. Now, Emlyn has found peace working as a fishing and hunting guide, spending her days in Idaho’s endless woods and scenic rivers.
Her serene life is upended when Tyler reappears. Janessa, now a social media star with her survivalist boyfriend, has gone missing, and Tyler fears the worst. Despite their turbulent past, Emlyn realizes her tracking skills could be vital in finding her friend. Reluctantly, she teams up with Tyler to navigate the rugged terrain. Emlyn can’t ignore the lingering sparks between them as they trek through the wilderness. Though she hadn’t anticipated a reconciliation, the undeniable connection remains. As they travel deeper into the forest, Emlyn is gripped by a new sensation - unease. In her mission to rescue her friend, she may have inadvertently placed herself in danger.
In The Nature of Disappearing, Kimi Cunningham Grant crafts a multifaceted narrative that seamlessly weaves elements of a gripping missing persons saga, an exploration of complex relationships, and a contemplative meditation on the wilderness’s profound influence. Grant’s vivid descriptions instantly transport readers to the sprawling Idaho wilderness, imbuing the story with a palpable sense of grandeur and atmosphere. Against this vast backdrop, the intimate drama of the characters unfolds, adding layers of depth to the narrative. The search for the missing couple, led by Emlyn and Tyler, serves as the primary driving force of the plot, gradually unveiling the intricacies of their intertwined past and relationships. While the story maintains a compelling momentum, there is a slight lull in the third act, where the sense of revelation momentarily stagnates. However, this minor flaw doesn’t detract from the overall buildup, as Grant’s skillful storytelling and well-developed characters remain engaging throughout. Whether experienced through reading or listening to the beautiful audiobook version, The Nature of Disappearing captivates with its atmospheric prose and thought-provoking themes. It is a summer read that entertains and invites deeper reflection—a winning combination that leaves a lasting impression.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2024, 47)
