If Only, Bethany Lunney
If Only, Bethany Lunney
List: $9.40 | Sale: $6.58
Club: $4.70

If Only

Author: Bethany Lunney

Narrator: Ncky Griffiths, Charlie Sanderson

Unabridged: 6 hr 4 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: The Book Chief

Published: 10/28/2025


Synopsis

Two lives. One story. Bound by fear, divided by circumstance.
If Only is a deeply emotive and gripping tale of two young women, Zoe and Ellen, navigating their personal battles in a world that feels both unkind and overwhelming. Their lives are separated by circumstance, yet their stories intertwine in ways neither could have anticipated.Zoe Brown is a thoughtful teenager burdened by anxiety and the daily pressures of fitting in. Battling feelings of isolation, she hides her struggles behind a mask, yearning for acceptance in a world that seems to overlook her. Through her humour and resilience, Zoe’s story shines a light on the hidden challenges faced by many young people today.Ellen Maclaren’s reality is harsher—a chaotic and abusive home where she fights to protect her baby sister. Forced to grow up too fast, Ellen’s tale is one of courage and survival, where love is her driving force amidst unthinkable adversity.As their journeys unfold through alternating perspectives, If Only explores themes of mental health, trauma, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection. Bethany Lunney weaves a raw, heart-wrenching narrative that ultimately leaves readers uplifted and inspired by the light that can emerge from even the darkest moments.
This book is perfect for readers who love contemporary fiction exploring mental health, coming-of-age struggles, and emotional resilience.
Step into the lives of two unforgettable young women and discover a story of survival, hope, and the unbreakable human spirit. Listen to If Only today and let their journey inspire yours!

Reviews

Goodreads review by Liz on September 15, 2025

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

Goodreads review by Lynette on April 17, 2025

This book is not suitable for anybody under 13 years old. But it is an absolutely fantastic insight into what it is like to have ASD as a teenager in school. There is tough subject matter which Bethany has really expressed incredibly well. She is an immensely talented writer and This book is a real......more

Goodreads review by Sharon on April 01, 2025

This is an astonishing YA novel because it is written by a young adult. It’s not an easy read at times, featuring violence and bullying, but its message of acceptance of difference is important. How refreshing to read about mental health and neurodiversity from a young person who truly understands l......more

Goodreads review by Michael on February 13, 2025

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

Goodreads review by Georgia on March 15, 2025

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