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That's Not How It Happened: A Novel
“Funny and poignant... Craig Thomas is a big-hearted, empathetic writer who knows his characters inside and out." —Tom Perrotta, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Mrs. Fletcher and The Leftovers
“Funny, real and moving all at once...[A] wonderful, heartfelt debut.” –Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tony-Award Winning creator of Broadway’s Hamilton
From the Emmy-nominated co-creator and Executive Producer of How I Met Your Mother, this smart, funny, bighearted novel for fans of Kevin Wilson and Monica Heisey, follows a family turned upside down after Hollywood decides to make a movie version of their lives.
With Audiobook narration by Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor
Paige didn’t set out to be a stay-at-home mom, but when her husband’s screenwriting career took off right before they had a son with Down syndrome, the decision was made for her. Now, with their children nearly grown and unsure what's next, Paige writes a memoir about the challenges of raising a child with a disability. When a major actress-turned-producer shows up at her door eager to make her “inspiring” story into a movie, she’s shocked, excited, and a little terrified.
This movie just might be the comeback opportunity her husband, Rob, desperately needs. His career has fizzled in recent years. But the movie is going to need a screenwriter, and who better to adapt his wife's memoir than him?... Meanwhile, their son, Emmett, doesn’t understand why people think his Down syndrome is the most important thing in his life (that's definitely his girlfriend, Amy)—but he hopes his newfound fame might somehow get him closer to meeting his idol, Eddie Vedder. Their daughter, Darcy, couldn't care less about the whole thing because she’s hardly even in their mom's book. The “normal” child who nobody ever worries about is feeling more forgotten than ever as her love life implodes and college decisions loom.
As their lives are chewed up and spit out by the Hollywood machine, triggering old resentments and launching new betrayals, will any of them even recognize the "inspiring" family in this film? Or will this "feel-good" movie be the end of them?
“Funny, real and moving all at once...[A] wonderful, heartfelt debut.” –Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tony-Award Winning creator of Broadway’s Hamilton
From the Emmy-nominated co-creator and Executive Producer of How I Met Your Mother, this smart, funny, bighearted novel for fans of Kevin Wilson and Monica Heisey, follows a family turned upside down after Hollywood decides to make a movie version of their lives.
With Audiobook narration by Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor
Paige didn’t set out to be a stay-at-home mom, but when her husband’s screenwriting career took off right before they had a son with Down syndrome, the decision was made for her. Now, with their children nearly grown and unsure what's next, Paige writes a memoir about the challenges of raising a child with a disability. When a major actress-turned-producer shows up at her door eager to make her “inspiring” story into a movie, she’s shocked, excited, and a little terrified.
This movie just might be the comeback opportunity her husband, Rob, desperately needs. His career has fizzled in recent years. But the movie is going to need a screenwriter, and who better to adapt his wife's memoir than him?... Meanwhile, their son, Emmett, doesn’t understand why people think his Down syndrome is the most important thing in his life (that's definitely his girlfriend, Amy)—but he hopes his newfound fame might somehow get him closer to meeting his idol, Eddie Vedder. Their daughter, Darcy, couldn't care less about the whole thing because she’s hardly even in their mom's book. The “normal” child who nobody ever worries about is feeling more forgotten than ever as her love life implodes and college decisions loom.
As their lives are chewed up and spit out by the Hollywood machine, triggering old resentments and launching new betrayals, will any of them even recognize the "inspiring" family in this film? Or will this "feel-good" movie be the end of them?
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2025
218 people are currently reading
16516 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
November 19, 2025
As a huge How I Met Your Mother fan, I was so excited to dive into this audiobook featuring Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor—and it was such a delight to listen to!
The story is full of heart and humor, and it thoughtfully illustrates the challenges families face when a loved one has disabilities, all while capturing the chaos and charm of getting your feet wet in Hollywood. I felt genuinely entertained and connected to the characters from start to finish.
Cobie, Josh, and the entire narrator cast did a phenomenal job bringing this story to life. Their performances added so much depth and emotion that I couldn’t stop listening.
Overall, it was fun, heartfelt, and wonderfully engaging—an audiobook experience I’m really glad I picked up!
The story is full of heart and humor, and it thoughtfully illustrates the challenges families face when a loved one has disabilities, all while capturing the chaos and charm of getting your feet wet in Hollywood. I felt genuinely entertained and connected to the characters from start to finish.
Cobie, Josh, and the entire narrator cast did a phenomenal job bringing this story to life. Their performances added so much depth and emotion that I couldn’t stop listening.
Overall, it was fun, heartfelt, and wonderfully engaging—an audiobook experience I’m really glad I picked up!
November 11, 2025
My vote for best audiobook of the year~ this has 4 narrators to complete POV of a family of four.
Paige- the mother who put her journalism degree aside to care for her Down Syndrome child and writes a memoir as he has entered into early adulthood.
Rob- her husband, rom com screenwriter, who has several classics in the genre. He knows his best work is probably behind him.
Emmett- their son, who works at Cafe Everyone, a small restaurant run by all special needs adults. He wants nothing more than to marry Amy, the love of his life.
Darcy- their daughter, who is neurotypical and often forgotten, getting ready to commit to a college.
What an absolutely delightful surprise this book was. I had some extra credits so I added this from Book Of The Month, who rarely have an audiobook that doesn't have accompanying physical copy. I did buy a trophy copy after listening to only 20%. Because the characters are fantastic, the story is extremely heartwarming and hopeful. After reading the blurb, I was afraid this book would get tragic, and although I definitely shed some tears, it does not take a dark turn. This book is the perfect blend of conflict and resolution. An inside look at the tap dance between publishing and movie production industries. Even the minor characters stand out- this book is incredibly funny, while also being smart and engaging. I loved it!
Outstanding audio, outstanding debut. This is just so heartfelt.
Paige- the mother who put her journalism degree aside to care for her Down Syndrome child and writes a memoir as he has entered into early adulthood.
Rob- her husband, rom com screenwriter, who has several classics in the genre. He knows his best work is probably behind him.
Emmett- their son, who works at Cafe Everyone, a small restaurant run by all special needs adults. He wants nothing more than to marry Amy, the love of his life.
Darcy- their daughter, who is neurotypical and often forgotten, getting ready to commit to a college.
What an absolutely delightful surprise this book was. I had some extra credits so I added this from Book Of The Month, who rarely have an audiobook that doesn't have accompanying physical copy. I did buy a trophy copy after listening to only 20%. Because the characters are fantastic, the story is extremely heartwarming and hopeful. After reading the blurb, I was afraid this book would get tragic, and although I definitely shed some tears, it does not take a dark turn. This book is the perfect blend of conflict and resolution. An inside look at the tap dance between publishing and movie production industries. Even the minor characters stand out- this book is incredibly funny, while also being smart and engaging. I loved it!
Outstanding audio, outstanding debut. This is just so heartfelt.
December 15, 2025
(4.75 stars)
Thank you to Hanover Square Press and Harlequin Audio for the advance copies of That's Not How It Happened by Craig Thomas. All opinions are my own.
***
This is the story of a family. But it’s so much more. Paige and Rob are the parents of a son with Down Syndrome, Emmett, and a “normal” daughter, Darcy. Rob is a screenwriter but lately has been struggling to find enough work to pay the bills, while Paige has spent the last twenty-something years raising their son, taking him to medical appointments, finding ways to let him find independence, and more. Their daughter feels that her life has revolved around her brother and his needs (and she loves him) and that she’s been more or less ignored by her parents. Things come to a head when a memoir Paige wrote gets noticed by a Hollywood star (or at least someone who used to be a star) and optioned for a movie. What happens next is the rest of the book and it’s terrific - realistic and emotional, funny and raw.
I loved this book! I basically flew through the audio version, which is an amazing production. It features well-known actors from the TV series, How I Met Your Mother (a show I loved) - which makes sense, because the author was a co-creator on that show. But I think the star of the audio is the one who reads Emmett’s parts, Kevin Iannucci. I can’t say enough about how hearing his voice made this audio as special as it is.
‘
This was an amazing debut by Craig Thomas (and a very personal one) and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.
Thank you to Hanover Square Press and Harlequin Audio for the advance copies of That's Not How It Happened by Craig Thomas. All opinions are my own.
***
This is the story of a family. But it’s so much more. Paige and Rob are the parents of a son with Down Syndrome, Emmett, and a “normal” daughter, Darcy. Rob is a screenwriter but lately has been struggling to find enough work to pay the bills, while Paige has spent the last twenty-something years raising their son, taking him to medical appointments, finding ways to let him find independence, and more. Their daughter feels that her life has revolved around her brother and his needs (and she loves him) and that she’s been more or less ignored by her parents. Things come to a head when a memoir Paige wrote gets noticed by a Hollywood star (or at least someone who used to be a star) and optioned for a movie. What happens next is the rest of the book and it’s terrific - realistic and emotional, funny and raw.
I loved this book! I basically flew through the audio version, which is an amazing production. It features well-known actors from the TV series, How I Met Your Mother (a show I loved) - which makes sense, because the author was a co-creator on that show. But I think the star of the audio is the one who reads Emmett’s parts, Kevin Iannucci. I can’t say enough about how hearing his voice made this audio as special as it is.
‘
This was an amazing debut by Craig Thomas (and a very personal one) and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.
November 7, 2025
This is a wonderful family novel, told from the alternating perspectives of each of the members of the family - mom Paige, dad Rob, young adult son Emmett who has Down’s Syndrome, and teenage daughter Darcy. Paige gave up her career decades early to care for her family, but recently wrote a memoir about being a special needs mom and how to grapple with the future for her son - a book she thinks not many people will read. Then a famous Hollywood actress (shades of Reese Witherspoon though not the same) champions it and wants to make it into a movie. And who gets tapped to write the script but Paige’s screenwriter husband Rob whose once successful rom com writing career has become a bit of a shambles. Meanwhile Emmett is grappling with wanting his parents to see him as an adult, and Darcy is facing her own struggles while feeling ignored by her family as the neurotypical child.
This book was just fabulous - funny but emotional, a big-hearted portrait of marriage and parenthood and siblinghood, and about living with Down’s syndrome - plus some fun Hollywood satire. I really loved how this book brought the family to life by giving us each of the family members’ perspectives, as they all love each other and mean well yet sometimes mess things up. And I thought the book was also really thought-provoking and educational about what it’s like to have a developmental disability and/or be in a family with someone who does, but without being preachy in any way. This would also make a terrific book club book as there is just so much to discuss - I had a great buddy read discussion with my friend.
And for audiobook fans, this book is a MUST on audio! I’m going to go ahead and say this is the best audio production of the year, even better than The Correspondent. Debut novelist Craig Thomas was one of the creators of the tv show How I Met Your Mother, and stars of that show Josh Radnor and Cobie Smulders voice Rob and Paige. I was a little worried that I wouldn’t be able to separate them from their HIMYM characters Ted and Robin, but in fact they completely disappeared into their characters here. Marli Watson is also wonderful as Darcy. And last but not least, Kevin Iannucci, who himself has Down’s Syndrome, is just wonderful as Emmett! Not just for the representation and authenticity but also he really is the beating heart of this book with his humor and emotions.
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for both my e-ARC and ALC (out now); all opinions are my own.
This book was just fabulous - funny but emotional, a big-hearted portrait of marriage and parenthood and siblinghood, and about living with Down’s syndrome - plus some fun Hollywood satire. I really loved how this book brought the family to life by giving us each of the family members’ perspectives, as they all love each other and mean well yet sometimes mess things up. And I thought the book was also really thought-provoking and educational about what it’s like to have a developmental disability and/or be in a family with someone who does, but without being preachy in any way. This would also make a terrific book club book as there is just so much to discuss - I had a great buddy read discussion with my friend.
And for audiobook fans, this book is a MUST on audio! I’m going to go ahead and say this is the best audio production of the year, even better than The Correspondent. Debut novelist Craig Thomas was one of the creators of the tv show How I Met Your Mother, and stars of that show Josh Radnor and Cobie Smulders voice Rob and Paige. I was a little worried that I wouldn’t be able to separate them from their HIMYM characters Ted and Robin, but in fact they completely disappeared into their characters here. Marli Watson is also wonderful as Darcy. And last but not least, Kevin Iannucci, who himself has Down’s Syndrome, is just wonderful as Emmett! Not just for the representation and authenticity but also he really is the beating heart of this book with his humor and emotions.
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for both my e-ARC and ALC (out now); all opinions are my own.
December 5, 2025
I loved How I Met Your Mother so I was so excited to see that Craig Thomas, the co-creator and executive producer, was writing his first book. I loved this one! Seriously so good. It's an emotional, layered, heartfelt and funny family drama. Really just everything I love in a book.
Paige is a stay at home mom to grown children, and her son, Emmett, has Downs syndrome. She decides to write a memoir about what it's like to raise a child with a disability. Then she's excited when a major Hollywood actress turned producer wants to turn her memoir into a movie. Her husband is a screenwriter and could use this opportunity to help his stagnant career too. This movie opportunity transforms their lives in ways they don't expect. I truly loved reading about Emmett and his family. The representation was so well done. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a great family book.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Paige is a stay at home mom to grown children, and her son, Emmett, has Downs syndrome. She decides to write a memoir about what it's like to raise a child with a disability. Then she's excited when a major Hollywood actress turned producer wants to turn her memoir into a movie. Her husband is a screenwriter and could use this opportunity to help his stagnant career too. This movie opportunity transforms their lives in ways they don't expect. I truly loved reading about Emmett and his family. The representation was so well done. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a great family book.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
November 11, 2025
This was a FABULOUSLY funny and poignant debut about a family whose son Emmett has Down Syndrome and the way everyone's lives in the family revolve around Emmett in some way and how their world gets turned upside down when a movie version of their life gets the greenlight from Hollywood.
Told from multiple perspectives of each member of the family, this story is full of heart and humor but explores important topics like parenting a disabled child, the toll that takes on a marriage, the inequality of labor being the one to stay home vs the one who works outside the house and has to travel not to mention how the 'able bodied' sibling often gets overlooked and made to feel invisible.
I was extremely impressed with just how well the author nails each character's feelings and is able to tell the story with grace and respect while still making readers laugh. The audio narration is ESPECIALLY well done performed by Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor (no doubt friends of the How I met your mother exec producer turned novelist author).
HIGHLY recommended for fans of authors like Kevin Wilson and Laurie Frankel! Craig Thomas is going to be an author to watch and I for one can't wait to see what he writes next! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Told from multiple perspectives of each member of the family, this story is full of heart and humor but explores important topics like parenting a disabled child, the toll that takes on a marriage, the inequality of labor being the one to stay home vs the one who works outside the house and has to travel not to mention how the 'able bodied' sibling often gets overlooked and made to feel invisible.
I was extremely impressed with just how well the author nails each character's feelings and is able to tell the story with grace and respect while still making readers laugh. The audio narration is ESPECIALLY well done performed by Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor (no doubt friends of the How I met your mother exec producer turned novelist author).
HIGHLY recommended for fans of authors like Kevin Wilson and Laurie Frankel! Craig Thomas is going to be an author to watch and I for one can't wait to see what he writes next! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
December 1, 2025
i rarely laugh out loud at books and im not surprised that the co-producer of how i met your mother had me lol’ing throughout this novel. this is a FANTASTIC debut novel. extremely easy to feel connected to all of the characters and the story telling. genuine and heartfelt! 5/5. everyone should add this to their TBR.
November 8, 2025
There are books you read, and then there are books you feel—and this was definitely the latter. As a mom of children with special needs and a special educator, this one resonated with me right away.
It’s about a mom who writes a memoir about raising her son with Down syndrome, and when it gets turned into a movie, the story is changed. The family has to deal with the shifted narrative and the question of who gets to tell the truth about their lives.
I really appreciated the premise, the themes, and the overall tone of this story. It’s a heartfelt, thoughtful family narrative that raises meaningful questions about truth, identity, and who gets to tell our stories, all while blending humor with real emotion. The characters felt warm and genuine, and the family dynamic was especially well done. I’ll admit I might be a little biased as a mom of children with special needs and as a special educator, but I absolutely loved the nuanced portrayal of raising a child with special needs. It avoids the clichés and instead shows the messy, beautiful, everyday reality with honesty and heart.
While I understood how Rob’s work tied into Emmett’s story, I found myself more drawn to Emmett’s perspective and emotional journey. Some of the sections focused on Rob’s job felt a bit mundane, and I noticed my mind wandering during those parts, wishing I could get back to the other character storylines.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and I’m so glad I did! The narrators were excellent. Their delivery felt natural and heartfelt, and they really brought the family dynamics to life. The emotions came through without ever feeling overdone, which made it such an easy and engaging listen.
All in all, I was impressed by Craig Thomas’s debut and eager to read more by him. It goes without saying, I recommend That’s Not How It Happened to anyone who appreciates honest portrayals of parenting, family dynamics, and the complexities of raising a child with special needs.
It’s about a mom who writes a memoir about raising her son with Down syndrome, and when it gets turned into a movie, the story is changed. The family has to deal with the shifted narrative and the question of who gets to tell the truth about their lives.
I really appreciated the premise, the themes, and the overall tone of this story. It’s a heartfelt, thoughtful family narrative that raises meaningful questions about truth, identity, and who gets to tell our stories, all while blending humor with real emotion. The characters felt warm and genuine, and the family dynamic was especially well done. I’ll admit I might be a little biased as a mom of children with special needs and as a special educator, but I absolutely loved the nuanced portrayal of raising a child with special needs. It avoids the clichés and instead shows the messy, beautiful, everyday reality with honesty and heart.
While I understood how Rob’s work tied into Emmett’s story, I found myself more drawn to Emmett’s perspective and emotional journey. Some of the sections focused on Rob’s job felt a bit mundane, and I noticed my mind wandering during those parts, wishing I could get back to the other character storylines.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and I’m so glad I did! The narrators were excellent. Their delivery felt natural and heartfelt, and they really brought the family dynamics to life. The emotions came through without ever feeling overdone, which made it such an easy and engaging listen.
All in all, I was impressed by Craig Thomas’s debut and eager to read more by him. It goes without saying, I recommend That’s Not How It Happened to anyone who appreciates honest portrayals of parenting, family dynamics, and the complexities of raising a child with special needs.
November 19, 2025
I’m honestly kind of speechless. The amount of care baked into this book is at a level that I feel is unmatched — at least in what I’ve read in my lifetime. I’ve now typed and retyped a sentence at least three times about how much I feel I learned from this book. But the truth is I don’t even know how to distill that into something as concise as a Goodreads review. I think the best way I can say it is that in the three days it took me to read this book (yes — only three days, I couldn’t put it down) I think I grew — as a writer, as a storyteller, as a human. It made me feel every emotion from anger, to sadness, to surprise, to delight. I know this book just entered the world a few weeks ago, so I hope this means it is just starting its journey of bringing light and healing to so many people. Thank you, Craig, for this book. Truly anything you write, I’m here and ready to read (or watch!)
Want to read
June 22, 2025Written by the co-creator of How I Met Your Mother. Hmmm, interesting
November 9, 2025
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗦
Rob and Paige McConnell love each other and their two children, Emmett and Darcy. But, like all families, they’ve had their share of highs and lows.
Among the most notable: Rob selling a romcom script for nearly a million dollars early in his career as a Hollywood writer and the birth of a son with Down’s syndrome.
Both fall into high and low.
When Paige’s memoir about being the mom to a son with a disability is targeted to be a vanity project for a book loving superstar, the experience throws the family into turmoil: Rob feels the spotlight shift away from him, Paige feels, firsthand, the experiences of Hollywood, Darcy searches for a space for herself, and Emmett demands to be allowed to grow up.
Will they come out whole on the other side, or will Tinseltown chew them up and spit them out?
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦
Absolute delight!
What a hilarious and poignant and very real exploration of love and marriage and family dynamics - no punches pulled!
Each character tells their own share of the story, a fantastic decision that exposes vulnerabilities, secrets, and lies, along with sweetness and joys.
While Emmett - voiced by an actor with Down’s - is the heart of the story, Darcy, who has always felt marginalized, delivers some of the best moments.
But, for me, the tiny unravelings in the marriage of two people who think they are doing what’s best for the other provided both the biggest laughs and the most significant bits.
And as an insider - Thomas was a writer on HIMYM - the commentary on the perils and pitfalls of show business were pitch perfect. Plus, as a father of a child with a disability, his understanding of and care for the character of Emmett was lovely.
𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞
The messy multi-POV of Hazel Says So with the humor of, well, a comedy show writer.
𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗗
Absolutely. How in the world is this debut not getting more traction? Do not miss out.
𝗪𝗛𝗬 𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢
Enlisting Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Kevin Iannucci, and Marli Watson ramps up the audio experience and is the best way to go!
Rob and Paige McConnell love each other and their two children, Emmett and Darcy. But, like all families, they’ve had their share of highs and lows.
Among the most notable: Rob selling a romcom script for nearly a million dollars early in his career as a Hollywood writer and the birth of a son with Down’s syndrome.
Both fall into high and low.
When Paige’s memoir about being the mom to a son with a disability is targeted to be a vanity project for a book loving superstar, the experience throws the family into turmoil: Rob feels the spotlight shift away from him, Paige feels, firsthand, the experiences of Hollywood, Darcy searches for a space for herself, and Emmett demands to be allowed to grow up.
Will they come out whole on the other side, or will Tinseltown chew them up and spit them out?
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦
Absolute delight!
What a hilarious and poignant and very real exploration of love and marriage and family dynamics - no punches pulled!
Each character tells their own share of the story, a fantastic decision that exposes vulnerabilities, secrets, and lies, along with sweetness and joys.
While Emmett - voiced by an actor with Down’s - is the heart of the story, Darcy, who has always felt marginalized, delivers some of the best moments.
But, for me, the tiny unravelings in the marriage of two people who think they are doing what’s best for the other provided both the biggest laughs and the most significant bits.
And as an insider - Thomas was a writer on HIMYM - the commentary on the perils and pitfalls of show business were pitch perfect. Plus, as a father of a child with a disability, his understanding of and care for the character of Emmett was lovely.
𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞
The messy multi-POV of Hazel Says So with the humor of, well, a comedy show writer.
𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗗
Absolutely. How in the world is this debut not getting more traction? Do not miss out.
𝗪𝗛𝗬 𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢
Enlisting Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Kevin Iannucci, and Marli Watson ramps up the audio experience and is the best way to go!
November 14, 2025
GUYS! This was a delight. While I’m not an audiobook person normally, I’m honestly tempted to also listen to the audiobook version of this even after finishing the physical copy. I think it’d be even MORE of a delight on audio if the reviews below are any indication and also based on the fact that 1) it’s full cast 2) the voice of Emmet is narrated by someone with down syndrome 3) Paige and the dad whose name I’m blanking on are voiced by Robin and Ted from How I Met your Mother. Speaking of HIMYM, this book was written by one of the show’s creators/writers and that tracks because you can tell that a funny person wrote it. You can also tell that he is the father of someone with a disability because the book treats the topic with the utmost respect and care and realness.
The story is a poignant, raw, and hilarious depiction of one family navigating down syndrome and how it impacts each of their lives. Each member of the family has a perspective in the book and you’re able to get a peak into all of their heads. I have to admit that reading Emmet’s perspective was my favorite, but all the narrations were heartfelt and real. The family is impossible not to love and though I was rapidly flipping through the pages of this one because I was enjoying it so much, I knew I’d be sad to finish and say goodbye to the McConnels. When it came to an end, I was indeed sad and am drowning my woes by making it my mission to get this on more people’s radars!
I do also appreciate that despite the fact that this story is full of humor, it doesn’t mask the harder aspects of navigating life with a disability, especially in regards to what that looks like after graduating out of the school system. Some really good food for thought in here about the treatment of differently abled people and how limited their opportunities become the older they get. The story comes with sucker punches, contemplation, emotions, and humor. Have I mentioned it’s funny? Because it’s really fucking funny.
Based on the fact that its author created and wrote such a cult classic TV show, I’m honestly shocked this hasn’t gotten more momentum. Not that who wrote it matters because big name or not, this book was just plain GOOD. I’m always searching for feel good books that AREN’T romances and this is exactly that. I recommend a lot of different books to a lot of different people and generally tailor my recommendations person to person because of taste, but this is a story I think everyone would enjoy and everyone should read. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll have fun and you’ll learn! I honestly can’t think of a person who WOULDN’T enjoy this. Even if you’re not normally into fiction or family stories or joy or happiness or whatever, I really think you’d have to have a very very very cold and dark heart to not smile at the end of this story.
If you get to the end of the book and haven’t cracked one single smile, come back and comment just how cold and dead your heart is because at that point I have no other choice but to impressed.
The story is a poignant, raw, and hilarious depiction of one family navigating down syndrome and how it impacts each of their lives. Each member of the family has a perspective in the book and you’re able to get a peak into all of their heads. I have to admit that reading Emmet’s perspective was my favorite, but all the narrations were heartfelt and real. The family is impossible not to love and though I was rapidly flipping through the pages of this one because I was enjoying it so much, I knew I’d be sad to finish and say goodbye to the McConnels. When it came to an end, I was indeed sad and am drowning my woes by making it my mission to get this on more people’s radars!
I do also appreciate that despite the fact that this story is full of humor, it doesn’t mask the harder aspects of navigating life with a disability, especially in regards to what that looks like after graduating out of the school system. Some really good food for thought in here about the treatment of differently abled people and how limited their opportunities become the older they get. The story comes with sucker punches, contemplation, emotions, and humor. Have I mentioned it’s funny? Because it’s really fucking funny.
Based on the fact that its author created and wrote such a cult classic TV show, I’m honestly shocked this hasn’t gotten more momentum. Not that who wrote it matters because big name or not, this book was just plain GOOD. I’m always searching for feel good books that AREN’T romances and this is exactly that. I recommend a lot of different books to a lot of different people and generally tailor my recommendations person to person because of taste, but this is a story I think everyone would enjoy and everyone should read. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll have fun and you’ll learn! I honestly can’t think of a person who WOULDN’T enjoy this. Even if you’re not normally into fiction or family stories or joy or happiness or whatever, I really think you’d have to have a very very very cold and dark heart to not smile at the end of this story.
If you get to the end of the book and haven’t cracked one single smile, come back and comment just how cold and dead your heart is because at that point I have no other choice but to impressed.
November 8, 2025
If anyone needs convincing that 2025 is THE year for spectacular debut novels, look no further than Craig Thomas’s sparkling entry THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. The co-creator and writer of the TV series How I Met Your Mother brings his trademark wit, snappy dialogue, and sharp insight to bear with his story of the McConnell family.
Rob and Paige McConnell are doing their best to raise their two children; Emmett and Darcy. Their carefully laid plans took an unexpected detour when Emmett was born with Down Syndrome. Paige put her career as s journalist on hold while Rob supported the family as a screenwriter. Now with Emmett a young adult and Darcy in her senior year of high school, Paige writes a book about her family’s experience. Soon the McConnells’ ordinary life is being turned into a Hollywood movie.
What follows is a poignant, heartfelt, honest, and intimate perspective on marriage and family. The four McConnells each have a voice in the family narrative. Thomas allows us to share their innermost thoughts, dreams, frustrations, and motivations. This book shines in its relatability. Each point of view is unique and adds a layer to the beautiful complicated chaos that is life. Each is perfectly imperfect with flaws, insecurities, and the best of intentions. They are completely human and impossible not to love.
Despite the humor with which the story is told, the author does not shy away from surfacing important issues like representation and the treatment of people who are differently abled. To that point, Emmett’s voice is especially important.
The absolute best way to experience this book (and it is an experience) is via audio. The production is among the best I’ve heard with narration from Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Marli Watson, and Kevin Iannucci (an actor with Down Syndrome). Their performances are nothing short of brilliant and enhance an already spectacular book.
The buzz on this book hasn’t reached fever pitch yet, but it will and it deserves every accolade it will receive.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Harlequin Audio for the advance copies. All opinions are my own.
Rob and Paige McConnell are doing their best to raise their two children; Emmett and Darcy. Their carefully laid plans took an unexpected detour when Emmett was born with Down Syndrome. Paige put her career as s journalist on hold while Rob supported the family as a screenwriter. Now with Emmett a young adult and Darcy in her senior year of high school, Paige writes a book about her family’s experience. Soon the McConnells’ ordinary life is being turned into a Hollywood movie.
What follows is a poignant, heartfelt, honest, and intimate perspective on marriage and family. The four McConnells each have a voice in the family narrative. Thomas allows us to share their innermost thoughts, dreams, frustrations, and motivations. This book shines in its relatability. Each point of view is unique and adds a layer to the beautiful complicated chaos that is life. Each is perfectly imperfect with flaws, insecurities, and the best of intentions. They are completely human and impossible not to love.
Despite the humor with which the story is told, the author does not shy away from surfacing important issues like representation and the treatment of people who are differently abled. To that point, Emmett’s voice is especially important.
The absolute best way to experience this book (and it is an experience) is via audio. The production is among the best I’ve heard with narration from Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Marli Watson, and Kevin Iannucci (an actor with Down Syndrome). Their performances are nothing short of brilliant and enhance an already spectacular book.
The buzz on this book hasn’t reached fever pitch yet, but it will and it deserves every accolade it will receive.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and Harlequin Audio for the advance copies. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2025
i have no other words to say other than this book was an ABSOLUTE DELIGHT!!!! i think HIMYM has the best writing of any tv show so it’s not really a surprise i was going to love this book from one of the co-creators. it was funny, full of heart and had amazing disability representation.
you HAVE to listen on audio because two of the narrators are josh radnor and cobie smulders who bring the story to life so perfectly. the challenges they go through as a family felt incredibly real as if i was watching a movie. i truly feel like anyone would love this story if they’re looking for something feel-good.
you HAVE to listen on audio because two of the narrators are josh radnor and cobie smulders who bring the story to life so perfectly. the challenges they go through as a family felt incredibly real as if i was watching a movie. i truly feel like anyone would love this story if they’re looking for something feel-good.
December 4, 2025
I laughed, I cried, I may have applauded alone in my kitchen. This was such an amazing audiobook!! These narrators didn’t just read it, they performed it, and I was all in!! 🩵🩵
December 22, 2025
A family with a dad in who works in Hollywood, a brother who has Down syndrome, a sister who is “normal” and a mother who tries to keep it all together. A story of how they all succeed but also fail while trying to navigate their lives both together and independently. There’s a feel-good ending after a lot of chaos. It was a quick read and I think there is a deep message here, but it certainly didn’t exactly feel deep while reading it…not sure if that’s a good or bad thing.
December 15, 2025
This was so enjoyable! I’m a HUGE How I Met Your Mother fan, so was very excited that Craig Thomas, co-creator and writer of HIMYM, wrote a book. I LOVED the audiobook, which was made even better by the parent characters being narrated by Josh Radnor and Coby Smulders (Ted and Robin). This will be my new most recommended fiction audiobook.
November 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
December 1, 2025
3.5❤️🩹
November 27, 2025
When a handful of my favorite reader friends all raved about this audiobook, I quickly moved it to the top of my TBR list. And I was not disappointed! That’s Not How it Happened is a DEBUT novel written by Craig Thomas, the co-creator of How I Met Your Mother. This family drama oozes authenticity and heart. I found it especially compelling because it was narrated through the individual voices of the family members - mom Paige, dad Rob, adult son Emmett, who has Down syndrome, and teenage daughter Darcy. I loved seeing their steadfast love for each other despite their many flaws.
The audio version of this book is an absolute must. It is voiced by a talented full cast that includes Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Marli Watson, and Kevin Iannucci, a young actor with Down syndrome. The actors do an outstanding job of bringing these characters to life. I had to pause several times to remind myself that they are characters and not actual people. Do yourself a favor and listen to this delightful, funny, heartwarming story! 4.5/5⭐️
The audio version of this book is an absolute must. It is voiced by a talented full cast that includes Cobie Smulders, Josh Radnor, Marli Watson, and Kevin Iannucci, a young actor with Down syndrome. The actors do an outstanding job of bringing these characters to life. I had to pause several times to remind myself that they are characters and not actual people. Do yourself a favor and listen to this delightful, funny, heartwarming story! 4.5/5⭐️
December 7, 2025
5 ⭐️ This might be the easiest 5 ⭐️ audiobook rating of the year. I stress you must consume via audio. Full review to come. I am in love with this debut.
November 9, 2025
I LOVED this story! The audiobook is the way to go. It's FANTASTIC!
November 10, 2025
That’s Not How It Happened by Craig Thomas
Published by Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted book and ALC (audiobook listening copy).
Let me just say: if you’re looking for a quiet, reflective book about the warm fuzzies of parenting—move along. This one comes with claws, crackling dialogue, and more than a few sucker punches to the gut (the emotional kind, not the Jerry Springer kind… mostly). That’s Not How It Happened is the kind of book that sneaks up on you—masquerading as a Hollywood satire-slash-family drama—but then starts peeling back the layers of marriage, parenting, and the weaponized nostalgia we all rewrite in our heads.
Paige didn’t ask to be a martyr mom. She just blinked one day and found herself drowning in IEP meetings and adult diaper coupons while her once-hotshot screenwriter husband Rob jetted back and forth to LA like he was still in the ‘90s. Their son, Emmett, who has Down syndrome, is now a young adult with a girlfriend, opinions, and zero patience for being turned into Hollywood’s next Inspiration Porn poster child. Meanwhile, their daughter Darcy is busy not-being-included in the story at all—because apparently being “the normal one” means you’re just furniture in your own family.
Cue Paige’s midlife memoir. Cue a Very Famous Actress knocking on their door. Cue the movie deal. And cue the total implosion of a family who suddenly realizes they’ve all been living in entirely different versions of the same story.
Craig Thomas absolutely nails the voice of each character—Emmett’s POV is the standout, heartfelt without veering into Hallmark territory. Paige is sharp and resentful in a way that will make every exhausted mom feel seen. Rob is a hot mess with great hair and a fading IMDB profile. Darcy? She’s the rage-fueled Gen Z baby of my dreams.
The dialogue snaps. The structure sings. The satire hits its target without ever losing heart. Honestly, this is what you get when you let a seasoned TV writer (Thomas co-created How I Met Your Mother) loose on literary fiction: it’s fast, it’s funny, it’s emotionally devastating in all the right ways, and somehow still manages to deliver a wholesome punch when it counts.
And the audiobook? Flawless execution. Full cast. Josh Radnor and Cobie Smulders narrating Paige and Rob (a literal HIMYM reunion), plus Kevin Iannucci—an actor with Down syndrome—as Emmett. It’s not just a clever casting choice; it’s what gives the whole thing its soul.
“He should be inspired instead of having to be inspiring. Accepted instead of having to accept less.”
★★★★★ 5 stars. Emotional damage and warm fuzzies served simultaneously. Craig Thomas, you may not be my real dad, but you are the literary papa I didn’t know I needed.
#ThatsNotHowItHappened #CraigThomas #BookReview #ALCReview #GiftedBook #FamilyDrama #DownSyndromeRepresentation #AudiobookGoals #HowIMetYourMotherFans #HollywoodSatire #ParentingFiction #InclusiveBooks #NetGalleyReviewer #HanoverSquarePress #CozyReads #FallBooks2025
Published by Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted book and ALC (audiobook listening copy).
Let me just say: if you’re looking for a quiet, reflective book about the warm fuzzies of parenting—move along. This one comes with claws, crackling dialogue, and more than a few sucker punches to the gut (the emotional kind, not the Jerry Springer kind… mostly). That’s Not How It Happened is the kind of book that sneaks up on you—masquerading as a Hollywood satire-slash-family drama—but then starts peeling back the layers of marriage, parenting, and the weaponized nostalgia we all rewrite in our heads.
Paige didn’t ask to be a martyr mom. She just blinked one day and found herself drowning in IEP meetings and adult diaper coupons while her once-hotshot screenwriter husband Rob jetted back and forth to LA like he was still in the ‘90s. Their son, Emmett, who has Down syndrome, is now a young adult with a girlfriend, opinions, and zero patience for being turned into Hollywood’s next Inspiration Porn poster child. Meanwhile, their daughter Darcy is busy not-being-included in the story at all—because apparently being “the normal one” means you’re just furniture in your own family.
Cue Paige’s midlife memoir. Cue a Very Famous Actress knocking on their door. Cue the movie deal. And cue the total implosion of a family who suddenly realizes they’ve all been living in entirely different versions of the same story.
Craig Thomas absolutely nails the voice of each character—Emmett’s POV is the standout, heartfelt without veering into Hallmark territory. Paige is sharp and resentful in a way that will make every exhausted mom feel seen. Rob is a hot mess with great hair and a fading IMDB profile. Darcy? She’s the rage-fueled Gen Z baby of my dreams.
The dialogue snaps. The structure sings. The satire hits its target without ever losing heart. Honestly, this is what you get when you let a seasoned TV writer (Thomas co-created How I Met Your Mother) loose on literary fiction: it’s fast, it’s funny, it’s emotionally devastating in all the right ways, and somehow still manages to deliver a wholesome punch when it counts.
And the audiobook? Flawless execution. Full cast. Josh Radnor and Cobie Smulders narrating Paige and Rob (a literal HIMYM reunion), plus Kevin Iannucci—an actor with Down syndrome—as Emmett. It’s not just a clever casting choice; it’s what gives the whole thing its soul.
“He should be inspired instead of having to be inspiring. Accepted instead of having to accept less.”
★★★★★ 5 stars. Emotional damage and warm fuzzies served simultaneously. Craig Thomas, you may not be my real dad, but you are the literary papa I didn’t know I needed.
#ThatsNotHowItHappened #CraigThomas #BookReview #ALCReview #GiftedBook #FamilyDrama #DownSyndromeRepresentation #AudiobookGoals #HowIMetYourMotherFans #HollywoodSatire #ParentingFiction #InclusiveBooks #NetGalleyReviewer #HanoverSquarePress #CozyReads #FallBooks2025
December 5, 2025
(4.5 stars)
Thanks to HTP Books, Hanover Square Press, Harlequin Audio, and HTP Hive for the ARC and ALC. All opinions are my own.
I'm so glad that several of my friends read this book and then raved about it - it deserves more hype! The author is the co-creator of a little television show you might have heard of - How I Met Your Mother. In this semi-autobiographical novel, Craig Thomas writes about a family at a crossroads. The father, Rob, is a screenwriter looking for his next big hit. The mother, Paige, became a stay at home parent by default when their son Emmett was born with Down Syndrome. And their daughter Darcy has her own battles and challenges as the neurotypical younger sibling.
Now their kids are young adults. Paige's memoir about her life as Emmett's mother gets picked up by a celebrity book club and optioned as a movie. Can the family survive all the ways in which the moviemaking process will bring all of their most difficult dynamics to the surface?
This book tells a beautiful family story with humor, heart, and emotional candor. While it might not be relatable to most of us to go through the process of having our lives made into a movie, so many of the emotional notes are relatable. Ego, parenting, siblinghood, trading roles in a marriage, and more. The disability rep and illustration of characters with Down Syndrome as fully realized adult humans is the icing on the cake.
I highly recommend audio for this book. You may recognize the voices of Paige and Rob as HIMYM leads Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor. Marli Watson and actor Kevin Iannucci round out the cast. Kevin himself has DS, which is critical for telling this story properly.
Thanks to my friend Elyse for the buddy read - her enthusiasm helped me prioritize this one and I'm very grateful!
Thanks to HTP Books, Hanover Square Press, Harlequin Audio, and HTP Hive for the ARC and ALC. All opinions are my own.
I'm so glad that several of my friends read this book and then raved about it - it deserves more hype! The author is the co-creator of a little television show you might have heard of - How I Met Your Mother. In this semi-autobiographical novel, Craig Thomas writes about a family at a crossroads. The father, Rob, is a screenwriter looking for his next big hit. The mother, Paige, became a stay at home parent by default when their son Emmett was born with Down Syndrome. And their daughter Darcy has her own battles and challenges as the neurotypical younger sibling.
Now their kids are young adults. Paige's memoir about her life as Emmett's mother gets picked up by a celebrity book club and optioned as a movie. Can the family survive all the ways in which the moviemaking process will bring all of their most difficult dynamics to the surface?
This book tells a beautiful family story with humor, heart, and emotional candor. While it might not be relatable to most of us to go through the process of having our lives made into a movie, so many of the emotional notes are relatable. Ego, parenting, siblinghood, trading roles in a marriage, and more. The disability rep and illustration of characters with Down Syndrome as fully realized adult humans is the icing on the cake.
I highly recommend audio for this book. You may recognize the voices of Paige and Rob as HIMYM leads Cobie Smulders and Josh Radnor. Marli Watson and actor Kevin Iannucci round out the cast. Kevin himself has DS, which is critical for telling this story properly.
Thanks to my friend Elyse for the buddy read - her enthusiasm helped me prioritize this one and I'm very grateful!
November 14, 2025
I listened to the audiobook—so glad I did! I loved hearing the voice actors perform. The different perspectives and personalities of each character were fascinating and kept my attention throughout the story. It was reminiscent of Wonder with each family member telling their side of the story and unfolding events. It truly showed the way that each person can internalize and misconstrue what another person is thinking. The emotions were raw, funny, hurtful, beautiful and everything in between. It captured real life communication problems and struggles among family, friends and career. I thought every actor did an amazing job with their reading and acting skills-Rob, Paige, Darcy and especially Emmett. I especially enjoyed when they imitated other characters like Nigel and Merritt. Emmitt always made me smile and laugh and also made me cry. What a truly touching story about life, family and learning to truly see each other. Well done Craig Thomas!
October 28, 2025
Paige's life took an unexpected turn when she gave birth to her son, Emmett, who has down syndrome. So, she quits her job and becomes a stay at home mom while her husband, Rob, flies across the county for his flourishing screenwriting career. Years later, after both of her kids are grown, Paige writes a memoir about raising a child who is disabled. When her memoir is picked up to become a movie, Paige's family learns that there is a side to every story.
So I immediately wanted to read this because the writer is the co-creator of How I Met Your Moth (my favorite show, thank you) AND two of the narrators are from the show (Robin and Ted, IYKYK) AND the narrator of Emmett is actually someone with down syndrome. So needless to say, the narration was awesome. I don't normally read contemporary fiction, but this was the exception. This was witty, emotional, and heartfelt. I loved every minute of it and think everyone should read this!
Thank you so much to Harlequin Audio and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the copy!
So I immediately wanted to read this because the writer is the co-creator of How I Met Your Moth (my favorite show, thank you) AND two of the narrators are from the show (Robin and Ted, IYKYK) AND the narrator of Emmett is actually someone with down syndrome. So needless to say, the narration was awesome. I don't normally read contemporary fiction, but this was the exception. This was witty, emotional, and heartfelt. I loved every minute of it and think everyone should read this!
Thank you so much to Harlequin Audio and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the copy!
November 6, 2025
This was a beautiful, raw, honest depiction of what many families endure. It felt real. The characters and their individual experiences woven together into one storyline was wonderful and didn’t feel rushed or forced. The pace was also great.
The audiobook with the 4 different voices may have added to my experience but I enjoyed it.
The audiobook with the 4 different voices may have added to my experience but I enjoyed it.
December 23, 2025
Truly a five star novel! The audiobook is phenomenal with four narrators for each of the family members. I felt so drawn into this story, and encourage everyone to listen to this one.
November 8, 2025
4.5 stars but I’ll round up. This might be one of the best audiobooks I’ve ever listened to. While I did enjoy the book, I don’t think it would have near the impact had I read instead. There were plenty of laugh out loud moments along with the more raw elements. Did it get a little schmaltzy at the end? Yes, but it’s not going to stop it going on my list of top books of the year.
November 13, 2025
I don't usually read feel good stories, but this one caught my eye. I loved the audio book version - definitely worth the read.
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