IF ONLY

by Bethany Lunney

Two lives. One story. Bound by fear, divided by circumstance.

If Only is a deeply emotive and gripping tale of two young women, Zoe and Ellen, navigating their personal battles in a world that feels both unkind and overwhelming. Their lives are separated by circumstance, yet their stories intertwine in ways neither could have anticipated.

Zoe Brown is a thoughtful teenager burdened by anxiety and the daily pressures of fitting in. Battling feelings of isolation, she hides her struggles behind a mask, yearning for acceptance in a world that seems to overlook her. Through her humour and resilience, Zoe’s story shines a light on the hidden challenges faced by many young people today.

Ellen Maclaren’s reality is harsher—a chaotic and abusive home where she fights to protect her baby sister. Forced to grow up too fast, Ellen’s tale is one of courage and survival, where love is her driving force amidst unthinkable adversity.

As their journeys unfold through alternating perspectives, If Only explores themes of mental health, trauma, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection. Bethany Lunney weaves a raw, heart-wrenching narrative that ultimately leaves readers uplifted and inspired by the light that can emerge from even the darkest moments.

This book is perfect for readers who love contemporary fiction exploring mental health, coming-of-age struggles, and emotional resilience.

Step into the lives of two unforgettable young women and discover a story of survival, hope, and the unbreakable human spirit. Order your copy of If Only today and let their journey inspire yours!

287 pages, Paperback

Published January 24, 2025

Reviews

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written by a young lady aged 14 who has managed to eloquently incorporate deep topics such as autism, ocd, bullying and fostering into a coherent narrative. Absolutely superb. This is her 2nd book!!! Keep an eye out for this remarkable author and ensure this book gets into the hands/libraries of schools and young people.

[Alis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine being able to voice something like this at 14. I’m still trying at 22. This is a beautiful yet harrowing rally for acceptance and kindness

[Julia Tung · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is so important to have books written by teens who can fully describe their experience with recent memory and reflection.

As an autistic adult who had a very hard time in my teens, and who has since lost a lot of the detail of what that time really felt like, this book was therapeutic.

It allowed me to grieve through an experience similar enough to my own, that doesn't shy away from the depth of emotion. I cried so much throughout this book- the heartwarming and the heartbreaking moments.

Bethany Lunney is a very talented author. I hope they continue to write and I look forward to reading whatever they publish next.

[Lynette Webster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not suitable for anybody under 13 years old. But it is an absolutely fantastic insight into what it is like to have ASD as a teenager in school. There is tough subject matter which Bethany has really expressed incredibly well. She is an immensely talented writer and This book is a real page turner for young adults and adults alike. You can find her other book Goodbye Granny Rose On Amazon. She wrote this at 11 and you can see some of the reviews that people have left for that. This will give you an idea of how superb this book is.

[Sharon Collett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an astonishing YA novel because it is written by a young adult. It’s not an easy read at times, featuring violence and bullying, but its message of acceptance of difference is important. How refreshing to read about mental health and neurodiversity from a young person who truly understands living with it rather than an adult who tries to put themselves in another’s shoes. Well done Bethany - what an achievement.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Only
By Bethany Lunney

I have just finished reading If Only, without wanting to give away any of the plot, I can say that it is a harrowing read that features teenage angst, ASD, mental health struggles, grief and happiness. A whole range of emotions are captured in this outstanding tale.

Well done Bethany.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a harrowing read, though the ending is hopeful. With amazing insight for someone this young, it really draws you into the worlds of Zoe and Ellen with a authentic raw emotion. I couldn't put this down - the story grips you, from cover to cover.

[Gulab Chauhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written by a very talented young author. Incredible insight to challenging topics