Somewhere at Last

by Julie Ann Knudsen

While adjusting to her new life on a tiny island, off the coast of Maine, sixteen-year-old Willow Flynn begins to enjoy the hot and carefree summer days most teenagers dream about.

Willow has only two priorities before the start of her junior year of high school: making money at her first real job and spending the rest of her free time with her boyfriend, Michael.

But dreams have a way of crashing, especially when a serious illness threatens the very survival of the boy she has come to love, the boy she’s begun to trust and the boy she cannot live without.

Genres: Romance

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2013

About the author

Julie Ann Knudsen received her B.S. degree in Technical Writing from Clarkson University, but found that she preferred writing creatively, especially after penning the play for her children’s drama club for many years. She lives with her husband and three children in Connecticut.

Reviews

[Evie · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading the first installment, I was excited to see what would come next. Julie Ann Knudsen set up a wonderful beginning, but Somewhere at Last didn't work for me. The acceptance of her mother's wedding in the end of In the Middle of Nowhere hinted at a more mature Willow, but this wasn't really the case. It seems like Willow was just too naive about her life. She obsessed about her boyfriend Michael, and created unneeded drama everywhere else. She talked about how everyone else was rude, but I got the feeling that she was just as rude. I think that making a more mature Willow (especially since she lost her v-card and started a more grown-up relationship) would have made this novel that much better.
In my opinion, Justin was the best character. He seemed to have more to him that obsession over love/jealousy. I wish there would have been a little more interaction with Tessa and Justin, so that we wouldn't have to hear all of the whiny things coming from Willow.
But overall I would give this a rating of 2 stars. The story seemed like a Willow was writing in a journal, instead of showing us the story of her love. And I just couldn't get into it.

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much love for the characters in the story and the authors take on how they handled situations. So much believability and depth in the tale of young love and emotionl journies. The temperamental teenage tantrums were on point. Investment in the characters is total and heartwrenching. I shed tears with Willow, as a mom that couldn't bear to see her own teenage daughter suffer such a horrific tribulation. I enjoy the realism but the secret romantic in me wants that happy ending. Looking forward to book 3 and whether the story ends in that happily ever after or takes a big reality bite, I look forward to seeing where Willow and Michael's path leads.

[MJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 2 - same review as last one. Enjoyed the just off the coast of Maine island life and coming of age story. A quick pool read after some longer heavier reads. Although some aspects that will make your tear. 3.5.

[ASHLEY TOTH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Julie Ann Knudesen's books! I can't wait to read the 3rd one and see what Willow and Michael get into next! My heart skipped a few times too many in this book!

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Somewhere at Last is book two from author Julie Ann Knudsen and it continues the story of teenager Willow Flynn. Fractionally older, and following her mother's remarriage, Willow has a number of new experiences - new house, new job and development in her relationship with Michael.

While reading "In the Middle of Nowhere" I was a little frustrated by Willow. She was fickle and selfish and made some really poor choices - although everything about her was 'typical' of a teenage girl. In the early stages of Somewhere at Last I thought I wasn't going to enjoy the book, because I was again frustrated by Willow and her 'teenage' behaviour. But I have to say my early assessment was wrong, I ended up very much enjoying this story. I was particularly impressed with the way Knudsen was able to create a character in Willow that I feel is a very accurate representation of a teenage girl. By the end of the story I felt a connection with Willow and as in In the Middle of Nowhere, there was growth in her character that was realistic and refreshing.

The relationship that develops with Michael is so sweet. The two must deal with Michael's illness (he is a cystic fibrosis sufferer) along with all the usual challenges a teenage 'love' brings with it. Despite his illness Michael is a very positive and thoughtful boy, with a distinct romantic streak. While he had been somewhat absent in In the Middle of Nowhere, Michael plays a key role in this story. There are a number of peripheral characters who all bring something to the story, but the focus is definitely Willow and Michael. Tessa even makes a return and actually manages to show some real care/consideration for Willow at one point, which was quite a turn around.

The story is not long, but it is touching and if you have read In the Middle of Nowhere you should definitely follow up with Somewhere at Last . Knudsen has a lovely writing style that is easy to read. The ending wraps up the story nicely, but also does leave the option of a further book in the series.

(I was approached by the author to proofread Somewhere at Last prior to release. An ARC was provided to me for that purpose. This review is based on the ARC received from the author).

[Flirty Fe BOOK fri-ENDS · Rating 5 out of 5]

We pick up where The Middle of Nowhere left us wanting more.

This story takes the reader from the edge of happiness to the brink of disaster. I can promise you that there will be tears for sure.

Michael Cooper is the love of Willow’s life and one if the most romantic teenagers I have ever met. Michael is very ill and has learned that there are no guarantees in life. He lives every day as if it will be his last. He makes it his mission that Willow knows exactly how he feels about her.

In this book, we watch as Willow is a sixteen year old, with an old soul, who has dealt with so much tragedy in her life that she is forced to grow up but still has a long way to go. This explains the reason for her attitude that she gives sometimes. Since Willow and Michael are typical teenagers who are inexperienced when it means to be in love, the reader experiences all the stages of developing a relationship: jealousy, lust, fear, healing and the greatest stage of all, unconditional love.

As I we share these experiences with Willow, I found I was extremely emotional. One of the reasons was that she had so much thrown at her at such a young age and she didn’t always deal with it in the best way possible but she did it the only way she knew how. There comes a point in this story when you will lose all hope and break down emotionally. The tears will flow so have the tissues ready as you follow Willow and Michael down this rough road as they find happiness.

Let’s just say thank god for epilogues. I’m hoping for more from this series. I would love to see where this story goes.

“Life is not measured by the amount of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away” Author Unknown

[Brit · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. (We <3 YA)

Wait... What?! Did they do what I think they did? Also, was not expecting that twist at the very end.
Once again, this book was alright, something I would recommend if you're not looking for something heavy or have to give much thought to.
I found that in this book, Willow was a lot more naive, which was annoying because everything that was implied had to be explained to her. It made her look super dumb, which I don't think she is supposed to be. I also wasn't too fond of how easily Michael and Willow got jealous. Like, Michael would see Willow talking to Justin and then wouldn't talk to her for two days because he thought that she was cheating. And visa versa when Michael talked to a different girl. Michael and Willow's relationship seems very forced, I didn't feel their love. Also, the fact that Michael got uber pissed when she said no to him really pissed me off, like dude, respect your girl's wishes. They were also very cheesy. I still don't understand the need for Tessa's character, but oh well. Willow and Tessa's relationship confuses me because they are very rude to each other but still remain somewhat friends.
While there were a bunch of things that I didn't like about this book, the storyline was what got me.... And Justin, he was awesome! He is probably one of the only characters that I actually like.
Either way, the story had me hooked and I just had to know what happened, and that's what kept me reading.

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This book has a better improvement than the last and it was very emotional for me. It tells about the romantic story of Willow and Michael but their tale takes them on a rocky road.

I love that Michael's appearance in this story was more and I was able to feel for him. Despite Michael's illness, he doesn't let the negativity of it let him down but tries to live and enjoy his life.
Michael is a romantic person and I like how he shows his love for Willow. Although Willow and Michael needs to improve their communication barrier wherein they always jump to conclusions and would end up fighting.

I'm glad that Willow character improved compared to the last time and I love her for it. Although like I mentioned before she and Michael needs to communicate properly in order to avoid being judgmental about situations wherein they both get jealous, angry, and hurt but then again many relationships experienced these feelings.

I truly enjoyed the book especially the epilogue.

I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Lacy Osman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Julie Ann Knudsen, ripped my heart out and gave it back with her wonderful completion of Willow’s story. The continuation of Willow’s Journey is a touching coming of age story of Willow Flynn and her love for Michael Cooper, a very special boy who is living with cystic fibrosis. Willow is dealing with so many new things in her life. Her mom has just married Brian and they must leave the safety and comfort of her uncle’s house and move into Brian’s home on Pike’s Island. Willow is also learning to be more responsible after some bad decisions in the first book and she gets her first job at her favorite Italian restaurant on the Island called Luigi’s. As her and Michael grow closer, Michael’s health continues to deteriorate and Willow must face her fears. She struggles to live her life knowing she could lose the love of her life.

This book is so well written and I loved it!! It is a must read!!

[khulhet24 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somewhere at Last is the sequel of In the Middle of Nowhere. It follows how Willow and Michael's relationship goes and how will his struggle and everyone else around affects it.

I have finished this book in a day not because of a deadline but because it was so interesting. I got really curious on how it will turn out in the end. And that last 10%, OMG! I had to stop myself reading every once in a while just to control my emotions to come out because I was in a public vehicle that time and it will be so humiliating if it did! Reading this book is a rollercoaster of emotions. It was funny, sweet, worrisome, and makes me cry in the end. At some point, I got pissed at Willow because sometimes she gets so stupid and selfish.

In the end, this is a great read that will tug your heartstrings and teaches you to never lose hope even if life sucks.

"You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice"
-Bob Marley

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somewhere at Last is the second book from Julie Ann Knudsen and follows the story of Willow Flynn as she continues with the struggles of her mum remarrying, new job new house and her blossoming relationship with her boyfriend Michael.

I really enjoyed reading the two books and felt that I could relate to willow. I especially loved the relationship between willow and Michael, they are just like any other couple just with the added struggles with michaels illness (Cystic Fybrosis)

Michael seems to be a very positive boy and very romantic and affectionate towards willow.

A lot of characters from “In the middle of nowhere” return in this book but willow and Michael are the main focus.

I would have to rate this a definite 5/5 as I really enjoyed it and have to say that anybody who loves reading should definitely give this a go.

[Lyra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel was more mature than the first book, but still perfect for those coming-of-age, like me. Willow and Michael grew up a lot in this book. I'm very proud of Willow and her decision-making skills, even though they sometimes get her screwed. She's made better decisions than the first book. She's really gone more mature in this book and that's the good thing about her. I like how love was described in this book as something pure and hoping. I think that was the best value in this story. Oh, and Michael! He's something to swoon for. I wish he were alive. Wiillow's really lucky to have him. I almost cried at the last chapter! Gosh. Another trick, I see. I thought for sure I wouldn't be my normal self for the next days because of that. That was crazy. But I loved this book even better than the first one. These two books are just too perfect for words!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

SOMEWHERE AT LAST is the sequel to THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE. I loved the first book and couldn't wait to read the continuing story of Willow and Michael. They have grown so much since The Middle of Nowhere and their relationship is still going strong but with lots of bumps. They are both super jealous at times and once they learn to trust each other, things get much better. There are lots of ups and downs in SOMEWHERE AT LAST and it is an extremely gut wrenching ride let me tell you. I loved reading about Michael and Willow once again even if it was a very emotional roller coaster ride for me. I finished this book with a huge lump in my throat and tears in my eyes! Five stars all the way!!

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Julie Ann Knudsen just blew me away! If you haven’t read the first book, please disregard this review. Willow is now dating Michael, and she is still working through him having Cystic Fibrosis. What would she do if he lost his battle with the disease? Willow gets a job throughout the summer in Maine, and goes through much of the summer working through the relationships she has with her family, and Michael.

I absolutely love this book, and as I said before, living in Maine makes this book come alive! I have imagined myself being throughout the state in places the characters have been. Knudsen’s vivid imagery just brings her writing to life and I just love reading her work. If you get a chance to read this book, do it! You will not regret it! Happy Reading!!

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
After reading the first book in this series, In the middle of nowhere, I was looking forward to hearing more of Willow and Michaels story. This book focused more on their relationship than other aspects of her life, which i liked but occasionally found it hard to relate to Willows character. The one moment that stuck out for me is when she asked to borrow her step-fathers car and the disgust when he expected her to clean it as well, little incidents like this made her seem like a bit of a brat, but overall this is outweighed by the good storyline and depth to her empathy when it comes to Michaels illness. Overall this book held a lot more emotion than the last that had me tearing up at times! (especially near the end of the book!!)

[Cristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was better than the first part
It focuses more on Willow and her relationship with Michael as they both struggle with his illness.
They go through the ups and downs of what a relationship is like.

For some reason, their love reminded me a bit of the one in The Fault in Our Stars.

The story was sweet and at times heartbreaking.

It was not as slow as the first book. and the chapters seem to be better well out together.

One of the things that bothered me was the friendship between Justin and Willow. At times, it felt like they both had a connection, but that relationship wasn't explored more.

You can tell that the author writing skills have improved.

Overall, I really liked it, It's sweet, lighthearted, & melancholic.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! what a great story. I just finished reading this book and loved it. It was a well written with nicely developed characters. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to a more mature young adult audience.

This is the second book in the Willow series. It continues to show the relationship develop between Willow and Michael. Willow really comes to find her way in this book through her relationship and feeling for Michael. Michael finally explains his issues with his dad and shows Willow all of himself.

Wonderful book! Can't wait to read something else by this author!

[Josie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received by author in exchange for a honest review.

I LOVED this story, a wonderful improvement from the 1st one! I read it within hours because I couldn't put it down... I have to admit I also broke down horribly when I thought Michael was gone, I kept thinking he deserved a happy ending so I'm glad he got it!!
It was well written with a great storyline, I'm happy it had more to do with Michael. I'm also glad to learn about something I didn't know much about... DEFINITELY A GREAT READ!

[Amber Dicks · Rating 3 out of 5]

"You don't know how strong you are until being strong is your only option".. This is a loaded quote with this book. This book was an absolute amazing read. It showed you just how weak a person could be, but still fight and survive every obstacle thrown there way. I would most definitely recommend this book to my friends.

[Navya · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Being the second book in the series, this book shows how Willow and Micheal get past the small emotional stones of anger and jealousy. Also this book also shows the war they both fight against the incurable disease which Micheal posses. It is a very good book and is very sweet and engaging.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael and Willow are so frustrating when they fight becuase if they'd just talk they would avoid so many problems. But that's young love. These two are the forever kind of love and you can't help but hope that Michael makes it.

[Sita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the sequel to In the Middle of Nowhere. Here, Willow is more settled but life is by no means without trial. Got a bit teary eyed at one bit. Quite realistic portrayal of teenage minds.

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good writing style, but the main character started to annoy me quite a lot. It was ok.

Full review on my website www.the-book-tower.blogspot.co.uk

[Michelle Mcroberts · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review to come...

[Melissa Winden herr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wholly emotional

omg i was so emotional i couldnt quit cry this book was so sad!!! I am so glad that they are so in love that they keep eachother strong when the other cant