Sometimes It Happens

Sometimes It Happens
By Lauren Barnholdt
2011
320 pages

Summary: During the first days of summer Hannah’s boyfriend cheats on her and her best friend Ava leaves her for summer camp, leaving Hannah all alone. To fill time and make a little cash she takes a job with Ava’s boyfriend Noah. Now it’s the first day of school and Hannah has to deal with the aftermath of the summer; her relationship with her ex, separation from Ava and an unexpected night between her and Noah.

Review: While not my favourite of her novels, Sometimes It Happens has many of the same elements that one comes to expect from Barnholdt’s work. It has the same easy to read writing style with short sentences and dialogue that make it perfect for reluctant readers or those wanting a quick read. Also, the characters are sarcastic and witty and easy to like. Hannah’s voice was surprisingly authentic despite the predictable plotline. While the flashbacks usually enhance Barnholdt’s novels, in this case they broke up the story a little bit too much making it difficult to connect. However, it was still an enjoyable read.

Also by Lauren Barnholdt: Two-Way Street, Once Night that Changes Everything, Aces Up

If you liked Sometimes it Happens you might also enjoy: The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott, Something Like Fate by Susane Colasanti, The Karma Club by Jessica Brody

Author website: http://laurenbarnholdt.com/

Rating:
Writing: 3/4
Characters: 2.5/4
Plot: 2/4
Originality: 2/4
Popularity: 3/4
Cover: 2.5/4
Grade: JS