We previously posted the review on the novel by Laura Nowlin – If he had been with me. After months, we find ourselves back at it again. Recently, we faced a few comments on how the book touched on the emotions. The story is mostly, of course, if for young adults but the appeal if has cannot be denied. In a literary landscape teeming with coming-of-age narratives, Laura Nowlin’s “If He Had Been With Me” emerges as a beacon of introspection, illuminating the tender intricacies of teenage turmoil and the achingly beautiful landscape of unspoken desires.
You can read the review here. But to recap, the novel is set against the backdrop of suburban adolescence, Nowlin crafts a narrative that transcends the boundaries of typical YA romance, delving deep into the labyrinthine hearts of her protagonists, Autumn and Finny. Their story unfolds with the delicate grace of a flower unfurling its petals, each page peeling back layers of vulnerability and longing.
At its core, “If He Had Been With Me” is a testament to the power of human connection, particularly the indelible bond forged between childhood friends. Autumn and Finny, once inseparable companions, find themselves navigating the treacherous waters of adolescence, grappling with shifting dynamics and unspoken emotions.
What sets this novel apart is its unflinching portrayal of the forlorn feeling that permeates Autumn and Finny’s relationship. Theirs is a connection tinged with longing and regret, a symphony of missed opportunities and whispered what-ifs. Nowlin’s prose drips with the poignant ache of unrequited love, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the tumultuous sea of teenage emotions.
Autumn’s story felt like looking in a mirror, even though she was dealing with a whole different situation with her best friend, Finn. Remember that awkward first love feeling? Nowlin nails it. Stolen glances, nervous texts, the world suddenly feeling brighter – it all came flooding back. But then the heartbreak hits Autumn, and man, did I feel it. That ache in your chest, the anger, the endless “what ifs” swirling in your head – it’s like Nowlin reached into my own teenage angst and splashed it all over the pages.
Here’s the thing, though. Autumn doesn’t just wallow in the sadness. She deals with the loss of Finn, figures out what went wrong with their friendship, and slowly starts to pick up the pieces. It’s a reminder that friendships, just like crushes, can change or even fade away. It sucks, but it’s a part of growing up, right?
What I loved most was seeing Autumn rediscover herself. She hangs out with old friends, makes new ones, and starts figuring out who she is outside of her relationship with Finn. It’s like a kick in the pants, telling you that even though first love might leave you with a scar (or two!), it doesn’t have to define you.
Beyond its narrative prowess, “If He Had Been With Me” serves as a mirror reflecting the multifaceted nature of teenage experience. Through Autumn and Finny’s eyes, readers are granted entry into a world fraught with insecurity, longing, and the perennial quest for belonging. In their journey, we find echoes of our own struggles and triumphs, a reminder that amidst the chaos of adolescence, there exists a thread of connection that binds us all. You can buy the book from here (Amazon link).