Book Review: If Only I Had Told Her by Laura Nowlin
As a devoted reader, I often find myself drawn to stories that explore the complexity of love, friendship, and regret. Laura Nowlin, the author of the best-selling If He Had Been With Me, has captured my attention once again with her emotionally charged companion novel, If Only I Had Told Her. This story whispers truths that many of us can relate to—those moments in life when we wish we had expressed our feelings before it was too late.
At the heart of this narrative is Finn, a character whose lifelong adoration for Autumn unfolds painfully against the backdrop of his current relationship with Sylvie. Finn’s conflict is palpable; he’s caught in a love triangle that’s as heartbreaking as it is familiar. Nowlin cleverly presents the story through three perspectives—Finn, his best friend Jack, and Autumn herself—allowing us to dive deep into their intertwined lives and emotional landscapes. Each character feels deeply layered, and their experiences highlight the trivialities and gravitas of young love.
As I turned the pages, I found myself empathizing with Finn’s inner turmoil—the pervasive "if only" haunting him, which resonates deeply with anyone who has navigated unspoken feelings. Jack provides an alternate lens, his point of view infusing moments of humor amidst the heartache. His take adds a refreshing depth, making the weight of the narrative more bearable even as it dips into sorrow. Autumn, encased in her own struggles with identity and ambition, beautifully exemplifies the dichotomy of longing and self-discovery, making her a relatable figure.
Nowlin’s writing style sparkles with authenticity, drawing me in from the first line. The pacing, particularly in the beginning, flows seamlessly, allowing the emotional weight to crescendo gradually. However, I found myself yearning for a bit more continuity and resolution in the latter half—some readers might feel the intensity wanes slightly, but the poignant climaxes deliver powerful emotional punches that linger long after you turn the final page.
A customer review beautifully encapsulates this sentiment: “This story gripped me emotionally and kept me reading. I didn’t want to stop.” How true this is! While some parts felt abrupt or left me wanting a more definitive conclusion, the journey through heartache and eventual healing was beautifully rendered. Characters grappling with loss and regret were masterfully portrayed, making it impossible not to feel their pain.
In closing, I wholeheartedly recommend If Only I Had Told Her to anyone who enjoys nuanced young adult fiction, particularly fans of writers like Colleen Hoover and Jenny Han. It’s a raw, heartfelt exploration of love and loss that can evoke tears and laughter alike. Whether you’ve loved the first book in this series or are entering Nowlin’s world for the first time, this novel is a testament to the power of connection and the importance of voice. It left me reflective and moved, reminding me that sometimes sharing our truths can be the first step toward healing—not just for ourselves, but for those we love.