If only I had told her by Laura Nowlin

If only I had told her, the sequel to If he had been with me, is a love story told through three different perspectives – Finn, Jack and Autumn. It is a love story filled with authenticity, tragedy, and unanticipated connections that bring about healing.

This sequel complements the first book by offering Finn's perspective to Autumn's story, utilising flashbacks to focus on differing timelines. It's touching to witness the emotional depth from Finn's point of view, revealing the sadness and heartbreak both characters experience. Finn has always loved Autumn. She’s not just the girl next door or his mother’s best friend’s daughter, she is his everything. But she’s not his girlfriend. That’s Sylvie, and Finn would never hurt her, so there’s no way Autumn could know how he truly feels.

Autumn's journey of moving forward and coping with grief, especially as a teen mother, is portrayed excellently by Laura Nowlin. Autumn surrounds herself with books and wants to write her own destiny - but one doesn’t always get a new chapter and fate can be cruel to those in love.

The inclusion of Jack's point of view, though unexpected, adds another layer of depth that I found intriguing. Jack, Finn's closest confidant, has his doubts. Observing Finn and Autumn together, how could Autumn be unaware of Finn's feelings? Jack feels torn between supporting Finn and shielding him from the inevitable heartbreak.

The book imparts valuable lessons on loss, maintaining mental well-being during tough times, and the significance of healing to find peace. It's advisable to check for trigger warnings before delving into this emotionally challenging read.

Themes: Romance, Mental Health, Friendship, Teenagers.

Ruth Tipping