This book really made me sad about my own archival job because I don't get to solve mysteries or talk to people who disappeared decades ago.

I don't typically read much contemporary with paranormal elements or magical realism stories, but The Underwood Tapes intrigued me. I don't know exactly what genre to classify it as, but it's a story about dealing with grief and the dark pasts of small towns.
After losing her mother in a tragic car accident, Grace decides to spend the summer in her mother's hometown working at the local archives. She's given the task of listening to audio transcriptions when she realizes that she can share messages with the last boy to work in the archives, Jake Underwood. I liked the mystery elements a lot, and I honestly didn't mind the "drama" parts either. The paranormal aspects were incorporated pretty well, though we never fully address how/why things happen...though I guess that's fine for the genre. I did think the ending was pretty rushed (there's barely even a chapter of resolution), and I didn't cry, but I liked the story as a whole and enjoyed trying to figure out the plot twists.
I also liked most of the characters. I liked Grace as a main character and narrator, and from what I've seen in other reviews, her actions are relatable for someone who is grieving. Jake reminded me of Charles from Dead Boy Detectives for some reason, and I was really intrigued by his personality/reactions to everything. The older secondary characters were also all interesting, especially when they reacted to Grace's accusations and questions. I didn't mind Lara or Griffin, but they didn't get much page time.
Fans of low-stakes mysteries, small-town secrets, and stories of grief will enjoy The Underwood Tapes.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!

4/5