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Whatever Happens
Violet Page is having a rough time. This former popular girl is lost. Her parents uproot everything after her younger sister’s suicide, moving states away to escape the lingering pain of loss. She doesn’t fit in anywhere, but finds herself strangely drawn to the boy she watches view the world through a telescope.
Finnley Crawford isn’t your typical boy next door. Being autistic has always set him apart from kids his age. None of them quite knows how to approach him or interact, leaving him only one friend in the form of his support dog. His lack of friendships lead him to a unique love of space and aspirations of one day reaching the stars. For in the stars, he sees a peace and beauty he can’t find on Earth.
The more time these two seemingly opposite teenagers spend together, the more they learn it isn’t what’s on the outside that counts. So much can be found on the inside if you only care to look.
Finnley Crawford isn’t your typical boy next door. Being autistic has always set him apart from kids his age. None of them quite knows how to approach him or interact, leaving him only one friend in the form of his support dog. His lack of friendships lead him to a unique love of space and aspirations of one day reaching the stars. For in the stars, he sees a peace and beauty he can’t find on Earth.
The more time these two seemingly opposite teenagers spend together, the more they learn it isn’t what’s on the outside that counts. So much can be found on the inside if you only care to look.
Hardcover
First published July 19, 2019
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1565 people want to read
About the author
Micalea Smeltzer
87 books6,748 followersMicalea Smeltzer is an author from Northern Virginia. Her two dogs, Ollie and Remy, are her constant companions. As a kidney transplant recipient she's dedicated to raising awareness around the effects of kidney disease, dialysis, and transplant as well as educating people on living donation. When she's not writing you can catch her with her nose buried in a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
August 12, 2019
4.25 stars**
dnf
February 9, 2020dnf @ 61%
I can see why so many readers love this book, it's a cute story, however it didn't meet my expectations. I picked it up mainly because it features a character with autism. I hoped to learn more on that subject, but the author barely scratched the surface. I don't feel I got to know Finnley well, and more often than not I found his behaviour not believable. I'm only speaking from my own personal experience.
I can see why so many readers love this book, it's a cute story, however it didn't meet my expectations. I picked it up mainly because it features a character with autism. I hoped to learn more on that subject, but the author barely scratched the surface. I don't feel I got to know Finnley well, and more often than not I found his behaviour not believable. I'm only speaking from my own personal experience.
October 23, 2020
Algo decepcionada estoy, pensé que me iba gustar mas, fue entretenido si y no es tan largo por lo que lo leí muy rápido, pero..
La historia nos cuenta a Violet de 17 años que se muda de ciudad con su familia después de el suicidio de su hermana menor. Al llegar conoce a Finnley su vecino de al lado quien es autista. En un principio no saben como acercarse el uno al otro pero conforme pase el tiempo eso va cambiando hasta formar una muy bonita amistad y empiezan a aprender mas de lo que se den cuenta aunque son aparentemente opuestos al otro.
El libro trata temas muy tristes y muy reales que cualquiera puede vivir.
Pero sentí que no estaban bien desarrollados, (el bullying, el suicidio, las etapas del duelo cuando pierdes a alguien cercano a ti, las enfermedades), son cosas que no hay que tomarse a la ligera, y no me malinterpreten el libro no es malo, pero definitivamente no llego a transmitirme lo que se supone que una historia así debería.
Todo el libro esta contado del Pov de Violet y conforme iba avanzando a veces se hacia repetitivo, el romance entre Violet y Finnley para no haber tantos capítulos de ellos, se dio demasiado rápido, y aunque ellos eran buenos personajes no llegaron a conquistarme del todo. Sentí que la autora no le dio el enfoque en desarrollar tanto como el romance y la trama de un manera correcta en su lugar había muchas situaciones describiendo lo que uno hace con regularidad, por ejemplo: desayuno, voy trabajo/escuela, tomo la clase, termina la clase/jornada, vuelvo a casa, alimento a mi mascota, salgo a dar un paseo, etc, etc, tipo así, cosas pues de las mas cotidianas que hacemos la mayoría supongo. Obvio se que a veces en muchos libros se describen estas características, pero es que en este sentí que leía mucho de esto. Y como dije fue repetitivo y eso no me gusto.
El final es bonito, me gusta cuando es años mas tarde y puedes ver que mas fue de los protagonistas, así que eso estuvo bien.
En conclusión, es un libro lindo pero también algo plano a mi gusto, en donde todo pasa muy rápido que no se da el tiempo de explotar bien la trama para que pudiera haber sido un libro mas completo y bueno.
La historia nos cuenta a Violet de 17 años que se muda de ciudad con su familia después de el suicidio de su hermana menor. Al llegar conoce a Finnley su vecino de al lado quien es autista. En un principio no saben como acercarse el uno al otro pero conforme pase el tiempo eso va cambiando hasta formar una muy bonita amistad y empiezan a aprender mas de lo que se den cuenta aunque son aparentemente opuestos al otro.
El libro trata temas muy tristes y muy reales que cualquiera puede vivir.
Pero sentí que no estaban bien desarrollados, (el bullying, el suicidio, las etapas del duelo cuando pierdes a alguien cercano a ti, las enfermedades), son cosas que no hay que tomarse a la ligera, y no me malinterpreten el libro no es malo, pero definitivamente no llego a transmitirme lo que se supone que una historia así debería.
Todo el libro esta contado del Pov de Violet y conforme iba avanzando a veces se hacia repetitivo, el romance entre Violet y Finnley para no haber tantos capítulos de ellos, se dio demasiado rápido, y aunque ellos eran buenos personajes no llegaron a conquistarme del todo. Sentí que la autora no le dio el enfoque en desarrollar tanto como el romance y la trama de un manera correcta en su lugar había muchas situaciones describiendo lo que uno hace con regularidad, por ejemplo: desayuno, voy trabajo/escuela, tomo la clase, termina la clase/jornada, vuelvo a casa, alimento a mi mascota, salgo a dar un paseo, etc, etc, tipo así, cosas pues de las mas cotidianas que hacemos la mayoría supongo. Obvio se que a veces en muchos libros se describen estas características, pero es que en este sentí que leía mucho de esto. Y como dije fue repetitivo y eso no me gusto.
El final es bonito, me gusta cuando es años mas tarde y puedes ver que mas fue de los protagonistas, así que eso estuvo bien.
En conclusión, es un libro lindo pero también algo plano a mi gusto, en donde todo pasa muy rápido que no se da el tiempo de explotar bien la trama para que pudiera haber sido un libro mas completo y bueno.
August 7, 2019
YA perfection!! 😍
April 8, 2021
The concept of the book is great! the story is good too actually. but the writing... oh my god the writing in this one NO 😭😭
December 1, 2020
"Fear is an illusion. The only true thing in life we have to fear is ourselves."
Micalea always surprises me with what she pulls out of her magic bag of tricks and I'm constantly blown away. I knew that this book was going to be something special and it was. I prepared myself for the tearjerker that this would be and I still wound up crying my eyes out at seven in the morning. 😭😭
The more that I sit here and think about the story of Violet and Finn, the more this touches my heart with its strong message and its absolute beauty. When two broken people find each other and support one another, big and better things can happen. It wasn't an easy feat but it was worth the wait. You'll instantly be pulled into the world of Violet and how she lives her life after the loss of her sister.
Finn and Violet start off rocky but Violet is a fighter and won't take no for an answer. She brings him out of his shell and shows him the better side of life, away from harsh judgments, away from stereotypes, and away from dark inner thoughts. Not only did Finn grow from Violet being his friend, but she also grew right alongside him. It was a story that I couldn't look away from and it made me a better person after reading.
Whatever Happens, was a touching and beautiful story of two broken souls finding their place in this world. I loved this book so much and it's one of my favorite YA reads o this year. I really enjoyed the fact that the lead male character was autistic. I'm grateful that authors are finally noticing that we are all different! Just remember that we are all different and we have no idea what others are dealing with or going through. Treat people how you want to be treated!
Micalea always surprises me with what she pulls out of her magic bag of tricks and I'm constantly blown away. I knew that this book was going to be something special and it was. I prepared myself for the tearjerker that this would be and I still wound up crying my eyes out at seven in the morning. 😭😭
The more that I sit here and think about the story of Violet and Finn, the more this touches my heart with its strong message and its absolute beauty. When two broken people find each other and support one another, big and better things can happen. It wasn't an easy feat but it was worth the wait. You'll instantly be pulled into the world of Violet and how she lives her life after the loss of her sister.
Finn and Violet start off rocky but Violet is a fighter and won't take no for an answer. She brings him out of his shell and shows him the better side of life, away from harsh judgments, away from stereotypes, and away from dark inner thoughts. Not only did Finn grow from Violet being his friend, but she also grew right alongside him. It was a story that I couldn't look away from and it made me a better person after reading.
Whatever Happens, was a touching and beautiful story of two broken souls finding their place in this world. I loved this book so much and it's one of my favorite YA reads o this year. I really enjoyed the fact that the lead male character was autistic. I'm grateful that authors are finally noticing that we are all different! Just remember that we are all different and we have no idea what others are dealing with or going through. Treat people how you want to be treated!
December 23, 2019
Review to come!
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September 28, 2020GIVEAWAY for an exclusive September Young Adult box from The Bookworm Box featuring an exclusive cover design for Whatever Happens. Enter here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CFr3tNQgaTD/
July 25, 2019
4.5 Stars
Review by Jen Skewes
Whatever Happens is a beautifully written story about love, friendship and so much more. It is a friendship between two young adults who are opposites n a lot of ways, but yet alike at the same time. Life isn’t always about what is on the outside, it’s the inside that also counts. And Finn and Violet learn that as their friendship begins and starts to blossom into more.
Violet Page has been struggling lately. After her little sister’s suicide, her parents pick up and move, hoping to escape the pain that their loss has left. Violet was the popular girl in school, a cheerleader who had a lot of friends. But after her sister’s death, things changed, and it seems that so did her friends. Violet does not want to be that girl any more. Maybe it’s because right now she is just going through the motions, or after losing her sister she really sees what her sister was going through, the pain that she lived with. But then she meets Finn and he changes so much for her.
Finn is the boy next door, who does not have friends. When he walks down the hallways, he is the kid that other student make fun of, think is weird. But Violet befriends him and sees what an amazing person he is. He’s cute, and fun and she loves hanging out with him. As time goes on she starts feeling a little more than friendship, but s afraid to cross that line. Finn is different, being autistic, he sees things differently than other people. Violet is not sure what to do with her feelings or how Finn feels. She just knows that she is falling for the boy next door and she is not sure what comes next!!
I love this book. It deals with a topic that I don’t think enough people write about. It is not something that authors approach as a subject for a book, at least not that I have seen. Micalea handled it perfectly and in such a beautiful way. I loved the friendship between Finn and Violet. I loved their connection and how well they got along and understood each other. You could see and feel how much they meant to each other and how they helped each other emotionally. It was so beautiful to watch their friendship start and turn into so much more. I think my only issue was that the beginning was a little slow and I wanted a little more background story where Finn was concerned, but otherwise I loved it. A wonderful job by Ms. Smeltzer.
Review by Jen Skewes
Whatever Happens is a beautifully written story about love, friendship and so much more. It is a friendship between two young adults who are opposites n a lot of ways, but yet alike at the same time. Life isn’t always about what is on the outside, it’s the inside that also counts. And Finn and Violet learn that as their friendship begins and starts to blossom into more.
Violet Page has been struggling lately. After her little sister’s suicide, her parents pick up and move, hoping to escape the pain that their loss has left. Violet was the popular girl in school, a cheerleader who had a lot of friends. But after her sister’s death, things changed, and it seems that so did her friends. Violet does not want to be that girl any more. Maybe it’s because right now she is just going through the motions, or after losing her sister she really sees what her sister was going through, the pain that she lived with. But then she meets Finn and he changes so much for her.
Finn is the boy next door, who does not have friends. When he walks down the hallways, he is the kid that other student make fun of, think is weird. But Violet befriends him and sees what an amazing person he is. He’s cute, and fun and she loves hanging out with him. As time goes on she starts feeling a little more than friendship, but s afraid to cross that line. Finn is different, being autistic, he sees things differently than other people. Violet is not sure what to do with her feelings or how Finn feels. She just knows that she is falling for the boy next door and she is not sure what comes next!!
I love this book. It deals with a topic that I don’t think enough people write about. It is not something that authors approach as a subject for a book, at least not that I have seen. Micalea handled it perfectly and in such a beautiful way. I loved the friendship between Finn and Violet. I loved their connection and how well they got along and understood each other. You could see and feel how much they meant to each other and how they helped each other emotionally. It was so beautiful to watch their friendship start and turn into so much more. I think my only issue was that the beginning was a little slow and I wanted a little more background story where Finn was concerned, but otherwise I loved it. A wonderful job by Ms. Smeltzer.
January 27, 2021
review has spoilers ~
this was more of a 2.5 star for me. I think because I had higher expectations and it really fell short by a lot..
I found that Violet and Finn’s love was underdeveloped so it was hard for me to believe they were in love. Almost felt instaish. Also, I hated how long they were separated. that time could’ve been used to see more of their dynamic, understand why they liked one another, cause other than attraction I don’t see why. violet was so boring and sometimes gave me an older sister vibe towards Finn not gf.
Finn he was done injustice he had the potential to have such an interesting story but instead we got a surface level development:/ His relationship with his mom we saw had issues the “she wants to fix me” thing , and the fight in his room violet saw, him saying his siblings don’t understand him ((even tho they seemed to get along great??)). Obviously he has a lot going on at home we never really got to understand. His experience as a person with autism was barely shown. We know he was bullied but I wish we got to see alittle more of that how hes treated and why he built up his walls. And I found the way he would speak and act was inconsistent. One minute he’s quiet one word answers, can’t make eye contact than next he’s groping violet in a car?? Hates noise , crowded rooms but joins the school play which will have all of that ?. It was giving me “ I fell-inlove-which apparently- “cured”- my autism”.
Overall this book wasn’t worth reading imo.
Edit: I decided to lower my rating to 1 star. As time goes on I realize how much I hated this
this was more of a 2.5 star for me. I think because I had higher expectations and it really fell short by a lot..
I found that Violet and Finn’s love was underdeveloped so it was hard for me to believe they were in love. Almost felt instaish. Also, I hated how long they were separated. that time could’ve been used to see more of their dynamic, understand why they liked one another, cause other than attraction I don’t see why. violet was so boring and sometimes gave me an older sister vibe towards Finn not gf.
Finn he was done injustice he had the potential to have such an interesting story but instead we got a surface level development:/ His relationship with his mom we saw had issues the “she wants to fix me” thing , and the fight in his room violet saw, him saying his siblings don’t understand him ((even tho they seemed to get along great??)). Obviously he has a lot going on at home we never really got to understand. His experience as a person with autism was barely shown. We know he was bullied but I wish we got to see alittle more of that how hes treated and why he built up his walls. And I found the way he would speak and act was inconsistent. One minute he’s quiet one word answers, can’t make eye contact than next he’s groping violet in a car?? Hates noise , crowded rooms but joins the school play which will have all of that ?. It was giving me “ I fell-inlove-which apparently- “cured”- my autism”.
Overall this book wasn’t worth reading imo.
Edit: I decided to lower my rating to 1 star. As time goes on I realize how much I hated this
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2020
I picked this one up because Finn, one of the MC’s is on the autistic spectrum and Violet, the other MC is grieving after her younger sister Luna committed suicide. The writing is good and I liked Violet and Finn and the development of their relationship. I liked that one of the MC’s is on the autistic spectrum because it’s so important to understand that being different or not average is more than okay. The book is a fast and easy read so I flew through it.
There were a few things I liked less. While reading I wanted to gain more insight into Finn’s autism but unfortunately it remained fairly on the surface. In addition, I had some problems with the names of the MC’s, Violet and Finn. From the start the names reminded me of Violet and Finch from All the bright places and I couldn’t let that go. Especially because both Violet’s lost a sister, both feeling guilty.
Overall this is a nice and very accessible read.
There were a few things I liked less. While reading I wanted to gain more insight into Finn’s autism but unfortunately it remained fairly on the surface. In addition, I had some problems with the names of the MC’s, Violet and Finn. From the start the names reminded me of Violet and Finch from All the bright places and I couldn’t let that go. Especially because both Violet’s lost a sister, both feeling guilty.
Overall this is a nice and very accessible read.
January 13, 2021
This book started out kind of slow with some scenes that didn't seem to move the story along; however, it sped up around the 50% point and the characters started to develop more. This was a sweet YA romance and I am glad I finished the story (almost didn't). I've read a few books by Micalea Smeltzer, and the book subjects and writing style varied widely between them. I would definitely use my Kindle Unlimited membership to read more of her books.
August 3, 2019
Read it in one sitting. Such an engaging read. Sad. But, uplifting. Wonderful characters. And Ms Smeltzer did her research. Hard to read. But had a heartfelt HEA. Wonderful epilogue! One of my favorites of the year!!! You just have to read this one...
July 25, 2019
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
Whatever Happens is a beautifully captivating and an emotionally heartbreaking journey that wholeheartedly captivated my heart and soul. Micaela Smeltzer's powerful storytelling ability ALWAYS has me hook, line, and sinker right from the first few words on the page and this story was no exception. This phenomenally talented author never ceases to amaze me with the stories she writes and this is hands down one of my favorites from her. I COULD NOT put this story down and the characters have secured a special place in my heart forever and always!
Violet Page and Finnley Crawford were an interesting pair of characters and their love story was absolutely epic. It gave me all the warm and fuzzies deep inside my chest and was unlike ANYTHING I have ever read before. These two unique souls perfectly complimented one another and proves that love can find you at the most unexpected times. Finn definitely reminds me a lot of some of the autistic students I have worked with in the past. Micaela Smeltzer did an extraordinary job showing the truth behind people with autism and my future special education teacher heart completely fell in love!
This story was EVERYTHING and so much more. Hands down one of my all-time young adult reads and my only complaint was that I wanted more because I never wanted to finish this story!
Whatever Happens is a beautifully captivating and an emotionally heartbreaking journey that wholeheartedly captivated my heart and soul. Micaela Smeltzer's powerful storytelling ability ALWAYS has me hook, line, and sinker right from the first few words on the page and this story was no exception. This phenomenally talented author never ceases to amaze me with the stories she writes and this is hands down one of my favorites from her. I COULD NOT put this story down and the characters have secured a special place in my heart forever and always!
Violet Page and Finnley Crawford were an interesting pair of characters and their love story was absolutely epic. It gave me all the warm and fuzzies deep inside my chest and was unlike ANYTHING I have ever read before. These two unique souls perfectly complimented one another and proves that love can find you at the most unexpected times. Finn definitely reminds me a lot of some of the autistic students I have worked with in the past. Micaela Smeltzer did an extraordinary job showing the truth behind people with autism and my future special education teacher heart completely fell in love!
This story was EVERYTHING and so much more. Hands down one of my all-time young adult reads and my only complaint was that I wanted more because I never wanted to finish this story!
July 17, 2019
Every now and again you start to read a book and you get chills because you know you are reading something special.
I could tell the author out alot of thought into this story. Violet and Finn have topped the list of my favourite YA couples. A different kind of love story with such a beautiful message behind it. The friendship that develops between them is written so beautifully. The patience and understanding that Violet shows Finn will have you wishing everyone was this way. Finn is such an amazing young man. I felt like I was with him as he navigates all these new experiences. If your a fan of slow build gentle love this book is for you. The way the real life issues are written make them so relatable. A truly beautiful story that I would recommend everyone reads. My only complaint it's not long enough and I need the years between chapter 37 and the epilogue.
Reviewed by United Indie Book Blog
I could tell the author out alot of thought into this story. Violet and Finn have topped the list of my favourite YA couples. A different kind of love story with such a beautiful message behind it. The friendship that develops between them is written so beautifully. The patience and understanding that Violet shows Finn will have you wishing everyone was this way. Finn is such an amazing young man. I felt like I was with him as he navigates all these new experiences. If your a fan of slow build gentle love this book is for you. The way the real life issues are written make them so relatable. A truly beautiful story that I would recommend everyone reads. My only complaint it's not long enough and I need the years between chapter 37 and the epilogue.
Reviewed by United Indie Book Blog
July 22, 2019
A beautiful story very worthy of 5 shining stars
I absolutly adored this story, i was pulled in right from the start .Violet is dealing with heartbreaking grief and barely functioning having moved homes to try and make life easier and memories a little less painful. She forms a strong friendship with the boy next door finn which ultimately leads to a beautiful relationship ,but real raw love never run smoothly, we follow vi and finn on an emotionally powerful and heartbreaking journey of not just first love but of self acceptance and worth ,of moving on from suicide and its after effects .
"Whatever happens , you'll always love me, right?"
This book had me crying ,laughing and oh in places it made my heart hurt but ultimately left with a huge smile on my face loved every minute of reading this book .
I absolutly adored this story, i was pulled in right from the start .Violet is dealing with heartbreaking grief and barely functioning having moved homes to try and make life easier and memories a little less painful. She forms a strong friendship with the boy next door finn which ultimately leads to a beautiful relationship ,but real raw love never run smoothly, we follow vi and finn on an emotionally powerful and heartbreaking journey of not just first love but of self acceptance and worth ,of moving on from suicide and its after effects .
"Whatever happens , you'll always love me, right?"
This book had me crying ,laughing and oh in places it made my heart hurt but ultimately left with a huge smile on my face loved every minute of reading this book .
May 21, 2022
“...you’re you, and that’s beautiful. Besides, fixing something implies it’s broken. You’re not broken."
This was a sweet, heartfelt YA Romance about grief and finding the light during trying times.
I liked the idea behind this book, especially with the MMC, Finn, being autistic. Unfortunately, the story never delved very deep into that subject, leaving Finn to feel a bit underdeveloped and more surface-level.
The FMC, Violet, was struggling through the anger and grief of losing her sister to suicide. I felt like the first half of the book did a good job of depicting the struggle, but it seemed to get pushed towards the back during the second half.
Overall, I enjoyed the read, but wished it was a bit more.
This was a sweet, heartfelt YA Romance about grief and finding the light during trying times.
I liked the idea behind this book, especially with the MMC, Finn, being autistic. Unfortunately, the story never delved very deep into that subject, leaving Finn to feel a bit underdeveloped and more surface-level.
The FMC, Violet, was struggling through the anger and grief of losing her sister to suicide. I felt like the first half of the book did a good job of depicting the struggle, but it seemed to get pushed towards the back during the second half.
Overall, I enjoyed the read, but wished it was a bit more.
July 11, 2019
Oh my goodness. This story was simply beautiful. It was a different kind of love but it was amazing none the less.
Vi and Finn, oh my. I just loved them so much!
My favourite book from Micalea Smeltzer!
Vi and Finn, oh my. I just loved them so much!
My favourite book from Micalea Smeltzer!
February 5, 2021
This was cute story that followed Violet and Finn. Violet is going through a lot she lost her younger sister to sucide, and she is still trying to cope with it all. Finn is dealing with a lot too, he has autism and uses a service dog for help especially when at school. He gets bullied because the other kids at school don't understand him.
When Violet meets Finn for the first time she feels she needs to be determined because she sees a good guy in him when others don't. Over time Violet and Finn become good friends, they are there for each other and seem to understand each other's pain.
I enjoyed the ending this story it was sweet. I do kinda wish this story had a little bit more background on Finn and his autism and how he chooses to cope with it. This is the first book I read that had a character with autism so I find that to be cool that the author wanted to highlight and bring awereness.
Overall this was a cute story I'm glad I chose this book to read first by this author now I will be picking up others by her.
3.75 rounding to 4⭐
When Violet meets Finn for the first time she feels she needs to be determined because she sees a good guy in him when others don't. Over time Violet and Finn become good friends, they are there for each other and seem to understand each other's pain.
I enjoyed the ending this story it was sweet. I do kinda wish this story had a little bit more background on Finn and his autism and how he chooses to cope with it. This is the first book I read that had a character with autism so I find that to be cool that the author wanted to highlight and bring awereness.
Overall this was a cute story I'm glad I chose this book to read first by this author now I will be picking up others by her.
3.75 rounding to 4⭐
July 15, 2019
What a beautiful, heartbreaking, powerful story Micalea Smeltzer has written! I don't usually read YA novels, but this book drew me in within the first paragraphs and I couldn't put it down!
We meet Violet at the start of her senior year, after moving from Texas to Massachusetts after a devastating loss, she and her parents are trying to rebuild their lives and find a semblance of normalcy after Violet's fourteen year old sister committed suicide. Her losing her sister in such a way caused Violet to really look into herself and see the person she was becoming and did a total 180. She used to be a popular cheerleader, but now she just wants to get through her last year of high school so she can go to college and continue her life.
She meets her next door neighbor Finn, and immediately feels a pull towards him. He's different than any boy she used to know, and not just because he's autistic (her sister had a form of autism as well) but because of who he is on the inside. She sees someone who doesn't fall into the norms of high school, and being a teenager especially, but someone who is just living day by day, just like she is.
Eventually these two form a friendship, and even though we only get Violets POV throughout the novel, you can tell that Finn feels just as deep for her as she does for him. After a few innocent touches and kisses, and one heavy make out session, they finally declare what they are to each other.
I love how even though they are so different, they balance each other out in the best of ways. He convinces her to try out for their school play (Beauty and the Beast!!) And they wind up both being the leads, and their chemistry offstage transfers onstage as well.
Though Violet's feelings quickly turn into love, Finn and her have a turning point in their relationship that I expected, but it still was so heartbreaking. He never felt like he could be enough for Violet, or that be was good enough for her (though no fault of her own) he let her go. They of course find their way back to one another months later, after which Violet goes to therapy to deal with her lingering anger towards her sisters suicide, and she comes out the other side stronger than ever.
I love how at the end, we are thrust 10 years after they graduate college, and are (literally) about to become parents. I'm a sucker for a first love turned into forever love romance!
Another aspect that I love about this story is that Violet never cared about what Finn looked like -- she was attracted to him physically, but what she fell in love with most of all was his heart and soul, and that's something that should not be taken lightly, especially in this day and age. I also love how Micalea often shows in her writing that mental health is just as important as your physical help, and when Violet told her parents that she wanted to see a therapist, they didn't see any negatives to that. Therapy often times comes with a stigma, and if our society wasn't so closed minded, maybe we would be happier as a whole.
I cannot gush about this story enough: their love was perfect, as was the main takeaway of this love story: it's more important who a person is in their soul, versus how they look on the outside. I love that so much.
Go read this novel; you won't be disappointed!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
We meet Violet at the start of her senior year, after moving from Texas to Massachusetts after a devastating loss, she and her parents are trying to rebuild their lives and find a semblance of normalcy after Violet's fourteen year old sister committed suicide. Her losing her sister in such a way caused Violet to really look into herself and see the person she was becoming and did a total 180. She used to be a popular cheerleader, but now she just wants to get through her last year of high school so she can go to college and continue her life.
She meets her next door neighbor Finn, and immediately feels a pull towards him. He's different than any boy she used to know, and not just because he's autistic (her sister had a form of autism as well) but because of who he is on the inside. She sees someone who doesn't fall into the norms of high school, and being a teenager especially, but someone who is just living day by day, just like she is.
Eventually these two form a friendship, and even though we only get Violets POV throughout the novel, you can tell that Finn feels just as deep for her as she does for him. After a few innocent touches and kisses, and one heavy make out session, they finally declare what they are to each other.
I love how even though they are so different, they balance each other out in the best of ways. He convinces her to try out for their school play (Beauty and the Beast!!) And they wind up both being the leads, and their chemistry offstage transfers onstage as well.
Though Violet's feelings quickly turn into love, Finn and her have a turning point in their relationship that I expected, but it still was so heartbreaking. He never felt like he could be enough for Violet, or that be was good enough for her (though no fault of her own) he let her go. They of course find their way back to one another months later, after which Violet goes to therapy to deal with her lingering anger towards her sisters suicide, and she comes out the other side stronger than ever.
I love how at the end, we are thrust 10 years after they graduate college, and are (literally) about to become parents. I'm a sucker for a first love turned into forever love romance!
Another aspect that I love about this story is that Violet never cared about what Finn looked like -- she was attracted to him physically, but what she fell in love with most of all was his heart and soul, and that's something that should not be taken lightly, especially in this day and age. I also love how Micalea often shows in her writing that mental health is just as important as your physical help, and when Violet told her parents that she wanted to see a therapist, they didn't see any negatives to that. Therapy often times comes with a stigma, and if our society wasn't so closed minded, maybe we would be happier as a whole.
I cannot gush about this story enough: their love was perfect, as was the main takeaway of this love story: it's more important who a person is in their soul, versus how they look on the outside. I love that so much.
Go read this novel; you won't be disappointed!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
February 17, 2022
This is a 2.5 in the star department. It was not horrible BUT it was not great either.
Death and grief are very hard topics and when a character experiences these things it definitely takes centre stage in their life, and I felt like it was pushed aside after the romantic interest was introduced. In other words, It was never explored in way that made sense for such a close loss.
The neurodiversity representation, especially with a main male character, was one of the reasons why I decided to read this book but that was not a major focus since we mainly followed the female protagonist. I thought we would get a deeper dive into the topic since Violet's sister was also autistic but alas. I also felt like what we did see was lackluster and not always accurate.
There was also A LOT of telling instead of showing which made the book feel drawn out even though the chapters were quite short, so I kept skipping Violet's thoughts a lot. You have to leave something to the imagination, leave things for the reader to finally put together when they reread. Just telling makes things get boring, we can arrive at a conclusion, we don't need to be told the obvious.
I did raise an eyebrow at some of the similarities to All the Bright Places but they stopped at the names and 'death of sister' aspect so maybe an inspiration... maybe not.
I like the romance between the characters, it was cute and sweet, for the most part. I liked the theatre parts and the friend they made along the way. Although Violet gave off 'I'm not like other people' vibes, it was bearable... unlike that one teacher...
But if you want 'digestible' grief and a cute romance with neurodiversity rep, then look no further just beware of the pages and pages of telling.
Death and grief are very hard topics and when a character experiences these things it definitely takes centre stage in their life, and I felt like it was pushed aside after the romantic interest was introduced. In other words, It was never explored in way that made sense for such a close loss.
The neurodiversity representation, especially with a main male character, was one of the reasons why I decided to read this book but that was not a major focus since we mainly followed the female protagonist. I thought we would get a deeper dive into the topic since Violet's sister was also autistic but alas. I also felt like what we did see was lackluster and not always accurate.
There was also A LOT of telling instead of showing which made the book feel drawn out even though the chapters were quite short, so I kept skipping Violet's thoughts a lot. You have to leave something to the imagination, leave things for the reader to finally put together when they reread. Just telling makes things get boring, we can arrive at a conclusion, we don't need to be told the obvious.
I did raise an eyebrow at some of the similarities to All the Bright Places but they stopped at the names and 'death of sister' aspect so maybe an inspiration... maybe not.
I like the romance between the characters, it was cute and sweet, for the most part. I liked the theatre parts and the friend they made along the way. Although Violet gave off 'I'm not like other people' vibes, it was bearable... unlike that one teacher...
But if you want 'digestible' grief and a cute romance with neurodiversity rep, then look no further just beware of the pages and pages of telling.
October 18, 2021
I was a little worried about this book originally, thinking I may not be executed well.Turns out I was wrong!
I loved that this author shines a light on Differently abled, The result being an extremely beautiful story!
It’s a really sweet book about two people, who find a bond within each other. I know there is romance in it... but I felt like that wasn’t the main point of the story. I enjoyed that there wasn’t really any “steamy” scenes in this one, like other romance books. That way you could just focus on the connection they made...
The only thing I wished was different, would have been to make it a little longer. I wanted to see more of their time together. Also the beginning is a little slow but once you get past that it’s worth it!
I really enjoyed this book and was pleasantly surprised! So far I’m really liking Micalea Smeltzer... this is the second book of hers I’ve read... first being sweet dandelion (which you should also read). I am exited to read more from her going forward!
I loved that this author shines a light on Differently abled, The result being an extremely beautiful story!
It’s a really sweet book about two people, who find a bond within each other. I know there is romance in it... but I felt like that wasn’t the main point of the story. I enjoyed that there wasn’t really any “steamy” scenes in this one, like other romance books. That way you could just focus on the connection they made...
The only thing I wished was different, would have been to make it a little longer. I wanted to see more of their time together. Also the beginning is a little slow but once you get past that it’s worth it!
I really enjoyed this book and was pleasantly surprised! So far I’m really liking Micalea Smeltzer... this is the second book of hers I’ve read... first being sweet dandelion (which you should also read). I am exited to read more from her going forward!
July 28, 2019
There truly aren't enough words for me to formulate a review worthy enough. Absolutely beautiful. This story was so touching...maybe more so for me because Finn reminds me so very much of my son who is the same age and also on the spectrum. So very beautifully and respectfully written I loved every minute of it.
November 15, 2020
I would have enjoyed some Finn POV.
I didn't like how much time they spent apart in that separation as well
I didn't like how much time they spent apart in that separation as well
June 13, 2022
Not really getting the romance or any connection to the mmc. I think this needed to be dual pov. Also felt a bit annoyingly preachy at times. DNF 53%.
September 17, 2019
Whatever happens,” I murmur against the skin of his neck, “we’ll always have the stars.”He kisses me softly, cradling my cheek in his hand. “The stars have burned for a millennia, and we will too.”
Just then, a star shoots across the sky. Finn’s words echo in my head from long ago. “I don’t believe wishes come true, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth making.”
So, under that night sky, wrapped in the arms of the boy I love, I make a wish.
I love this! I abso-freaking-lutely love this story! So much!
Two people who are so different from each other, find common ground and then proceed to have the most beautiful friendship and further relationship.
Violet Page & Finely Crawford were the perfect pair in every way possible and their story... GAH! SO MANY FEELS! SO MANY OF THEM!
This story, the characters, they made me smile, fall in love with them and broke my heart all at the same time.
My heart especially went out to Finely. He is autistic and as I've usually read other students/children are not that friendly towards kids who are not "normal".
One of my favourite things about this book was how it focused on the main leads, their families and their individual development.
I also appreciated the fact that while everyone in school thought Fin was weird and did stay away from him, nobody was going out of their way to bully him or pick on him.
I'm just... I don't think I can stop reiterating the fact that I ADORED this book. My heart was and still is full after finishing this book.
This book was one of the rare ones where from cover-to-cover the entire book was my favourite.
I love reading about teenagers falling in love for the very first time, especially if they are clean romances like this one. There is just something so pure and wholesome about them falling in love without the physical aspect playing a part in it.
Whatever Happens was everything I had hoped for it to be. The story is beautiful and the epilogue only adds to it, tying up everything perfectly.
{Now only if I could somehow wrangle a copy of this book in India. My life would be simple}
5 Stars!
★ Buy Whatever Happens (Kindle)
★ Buy Whatever Happens (Paperback)
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January 2, 2020
2.5
Ce livre avait tout pour me plaire.
Un YA, une fille qui a perdu sa sœur, le garçon d’à côté qui est autiste et rejeté, une amitié qui se forme et se transforme. Bref je m’attendais à adorer, surtout avec la note.
Malheureusement je n’ai même pas pu finir (arrête a 60%). L’histoire en elle-même n’était pas mauvaise mais je n’ai pas accroché au style, j’ai trouvé que ça sonnait faux.
Certaines réflexions et remarques ne semblaient pas du tout naturelles, même un adulte ne les sortirait pas. J’avais l’impression que l’auteur écrivait ces phrases en se disant « elles vont toucher le lecteur » mais sans penser qu’une ado ne 17 ans ne sortirait jamais ça. Bref dommage !
Ce livre avait tout pour me plaire.
Un YA, une fille qui a perdu sa sœur, le garçon d’à côté qui est autiste et rejeté, une amitié qui se forme et se transforme. Bref je m’attendais à adorer, surtout avec la note.
Malheureusement je n’ai même pas pu finir (arrête a 60%). L’histoire en elle-même n’était pas mauvaise mais je n’ai pas accroché au style, j’ai trouvé que ça sonnait faux.
Certaines réflexions et remarques ne semblaient pas du tout naturelles, même un adulte ne les sortirait pas. J’avais l’impression que l’auteur écrivait ces phrases en se disant « elles vont toucher le lecteur » mais sans penser qu’une ado ne 17 ans ne sortirait jamais ça. Bref dommage !
July 4, 2022
Can I give this book more than 5⭐️ because it definitely deserves it. First off the book starts out so sad. I wasn’t expecting it at all. I loved both Violet and Finn so much. Finn had autism and that never once bothered Violet. I loved how guarded he was in the beginning and how he opened up by the end. They had such a different family life from one another. I really liked when they introduced Finn’s siblings and how protective he got when his brother shook Violets hand. Ughhh there were SO MANY cute moments in this book. There are barely any steamy moments but it wasn’t needed with a book like this. You fall in love with the MCs and that right there is enough… it’s perfection!
July 23, 2019
Micalea is a very talented author who started writing really young. She captures & draws you in every story she writes.
Violet & Finnleys story was beautiful to say the least. This hit home & cried a little because my 24 year old stepson is minor autistic. He is photogenic but his social skills are lacking. If you are looking for a different kind of love, read "Whatever Happens". Loved this book!
Violet & Finnleys story was beautiful to say the least. This hit home & cried a little because my 24 year old stepson is minor autistic. He is photogenic but his social skills are lacking. If you are looking for a different kind of love, read "Whatever Happens". Loved this book!
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