My Journey of Resilience and Self-Discovery.

"I’m amazed that Bethany wrote If Only between the ages of 12 and 14! This is a truly marvelous story, and I can hardly believe she was so young. The themes are beautifully woven throughout the chapters. The story follows Ellen, a young girl who takes on the care of her baby sister Mabel due to their mother’s neglect, only to face tragedy. Meanwhile, Ellen faces cruelty from classmates who reject Zoe, a girl struggling with social anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Bethany brilliantly brings Ellen and Zoe together when Zoe’s family fosters Ellen, who’s never been to school. If Only is a powerful and moving read for all ages."

"Bethany writes with a maturity far beyond her years, displaying deep insight into the world of autism and emotional hardship. If Only is gripping, raw, and emotionally intense; I was fully invested in the characters from the beginning. We follow two girls navigating the struggles and heartbreaks of teenage life. The characters’ pain is intense, and Bethany’s writing captures it beautifully. The story is an emotional journey from start to finish, filled with depth and understanding that makes it impossible to put down. This book is a compelling page-turner that resonates on many levels."

"If Only is one of the most powerful books I’ve read in my years as a librarian. Bethany Lunney tackles deeply personal and difficult topics with incredible sensitivity, which gives the story its strength. Her passion for writing and willingness to explore uncomfortable issues make this book so impactful. This book deserves a place in every school library, and I highly recommend it for PSHE classes and reading groups. It’s an impressive achievement from such a young, talented writer, and it’s sure to resonate with readers of all ages."

"It’s been a long time since I read a book that left me speechless, but If Only did just that. The story follows two young girls coping with very real, intense traumas. Zoe feels distant from her peers, while Ellen faces experiences no child should. Through fate, the girls come together, helping each other face their pain. This book is raw and honest—I felt every bit of their struggle and even cried along with them. The issues are tough but important, mirroring real-world challenges. The journey of forgiveness especially struck me. With well-developed arcs and moving prose, If Only is a book I’ll keep forever. A must-read recommendation, but keep tissues handy."