If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin is a poignant young adult novel that explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of friendship. The story centers on Autumn and Finn, childhood friends who grew apart during their teenage years but still share a deep connection. As they navigate high school, Autumn becomes a quieter, more introspective person, while Finn becomes a popular and somewhat distant figure. Despite their separation, there is an undeniable tension between them, and readers can sense that their bond never fully disappeared.

The narrative alternates between Autumn's perspective and flashbacks of her past with Finn, showcasing their once-close friendship, the moments that defined them, and the paths that led them in different directions. As the story unfolds, Autumn struggles with her feelings for Finn, wondering what could have been if their relationship had not drifted apart. The novel builds up to an emotional and heartbreaking climax, as the characters face the inevitability of life’s choices and the consequences of time lost.

If He Had Been with Me is a beautiful, bittersweet exploration of missed opportunities and the depth of human connection. The author’s writing captures the quiet intensity of young love and the ways in which people shape each other's lives, even when they are no longer physically together. This book will resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of lost friendships or unspoken feelings, making it an emotional and deeply moving read.#dhari.pk