I have loved the writing duo Erin Watt, especially their book When It’s Real so I was excited for One Small Thing. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts, I couldn’t bring myself to finish it. I gave up at 45%, with no will left to go on.

Some blame can be placed on the formatting, due to it being an ARC. But it flowed together so terribly, that it made it difficult to follow. Paragraphs ran into the next, and made scene changes especially confusing. Eventually, I was able to mostly ignore it.

This book is the epitome of the reasons why I’m never drawn to YA novels. I’m usually turned off to them from the jump, just knowing that they’re YA, because I assume (incorrectly, in most cases) that the characters’ problems will be menial and difficult to relate to. In the past, it was never the case. YA books are some of the best written that I’ve ever read and almost always end up being a favorite. But this one was entirely different.

I felt like the storyline with Beth’s sister was trying too hard. It wasn’t at all heartbreaking the way that losing a sister should be. It was more of Beth acting like a spoiled brat, whining about how her parents just don’t understand! Oh, the drama.

And all of that drama aside, then there’s a ton more of it surrounding Chase’s character. It was all just so over-the-top. I didn’t emotionally connect to anyone in this story – in fact, they are all quite terrible. I didn’t like a single one of them.

Beth is annoying and spoiled and extremely whiney. Most of her “problems” are created by herself because she acts like a brat and goes behind her parents’ backs. Her parents were both appalling. Her “friends” were shitty, Chase had no redeemable qualities, and Jeff is a sleazy scumbag.

I just couldn’t take it anymore. I bailed before the halfway point, but I just wasn’t going to continue to put myself through it when redemption for any of the characters was so highly doubtful. I don’t really care what happens to any of them, and that’s when I know it’s time to give in. Maybe the next Erin Watt book and I will jive better.

This book made me vibrate to an unimaginable point, I don’t know why Beth’s suffering touches me so much but the fact that everyone gives her advice, tells her who to date, what to do and with whom, horrifies me to the highest point.

Beth’s parents are much too strict, I can understand that since they have already lost a daughter but unfortunately they are losing the second one by dint of bullying her. She can’t do anything, she even sent letters to universities but her mother went to the mailbox to get them so they wouldn’t leave. I find it rather ignoble to deprive her daughter of a private life, as they do when she is a responsible student.

Chase made a mistake, certainly fatal, but he paid his debt. I have a hard time understanding how people can be so vile with him. I understand if Beth is because after all she’s the victim, but the others just imagine things.

I enjoyed the relationship between Beth and Chase, everything starts at one party and after everything changes, unfortunately Beth falls in love with Chase despite everything, she will undergo all sorts of remarks from everyone and although I can understand that this shocks, I also totally understand the Beth point of view.

I was touched by this story, by the way it is treated and by the characters who are endearing. This book deals with forgiveness, hate, second chance, violence and also friendship and family relationships.

Like all Erin Watt’s books this one will not leave you indifferent and I hope you will like it as much as I do.

Quick Word: A book to read absolutely.

This was my first Erin Watt novel and I cannot wait to read more from them. I was hooked on the story from the beginning. I was so entranced that I finished it in a day. Not many books hold my attention so well that I'm sneaking in time to read them.
Beth or Lizzie is trying to find herself after the death of her sister. It's not really possible when it seems like no one else is healing either.
Chase or Charlie is figuring out how to survive his senior year. After some long thoughts maybe his school isn't right for him and won't help with his healing.
Chase and Beth had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would unfold next. They may be forbidden from each other but sometimes a connection is too strong to listen to those around you. You also need to find a way to heal and become who you want to be.

This book was so hard to read. Not because of the writing but because of the subject matter. There were so many issues going on, but most important were grief and forgiveness.

I found myself extremely conflicted with this book. There was a romance between Beth and Chase. Chase had played a role in Beth’s sister’s death. I loved their romance, but I was also cringing, just because of who they were to each other. And I also felt like how can this possibly end well. I was on edge the entire book, thinking what is going to happen next to these characters.

Beth is a really strong character, but she starts the beginning in a deep spiral over the loss of her sister, and her parents’ new strictness. You can totally understand why she was spiraling. Her parents were awful, but at the same time, you can kind of understand what they were trying to do. All they wanted to do was protect their daughter, but in reality, they were smothering her. I thought the Mom had a decent growth throughout the book, but I really can’t say the same about Beth’s Dad. But, everyone grieves differently.

Chase was a great character. I would have loved to know a bit more about him, but he had a really hard battle of forgiving himself for the death of Beth’s sister. You do get a touch of his backstory. I would have loved alternating chapters in his voice to get more inside his head.

I went into this book thinking that this would be a cute, young adult romance, and hoped that Chase didn’t hold as big of a role in the death as the blurb suggests. But, this book was neither of those things. It weighs heavy on me, and it is a book I cannot stop thinking about. I would highly recommend this book.

* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

I have been a huge fan of Erin Watt and will continue to read their books. They sure have a way with words. One Small Thing surely puts life into perspective from the eyes of young adults. It talks about sensitive subjects and how you have to have one small thing to get you through the day.

Beth and Chase have surely had their fair share of tragedy and heartbreak but in the most unlikely circumstances, these two somehow find there way to each other. Against all odds, they make it work and learn a powerful life lesson. I couldn't put this book down and truly felt for both them.

3 stars!

My favorite duo is back with a YA book this time. One Small Thing is another example of quality writing from two established authors who know how to bring a story to life and hook the readers in from the first page.

Beth, formerly known as Lizzie, is dealing with her sister’s death and what her life is shaping up to be without her in the family. I admit that at first I had my doubts about her but she turned out to be a character we very rarely get in YA. She was a rebel, literally rebelling against everything her overbearing and overprotective parents forced on her – like their choice of college and her job – and in doing so she quickly grew on me. She’s a character who always lived under her sister’s shadow and now with her sister’s passing, she feels like her life is being 100% controlled by her parents and their fear of losing their daughter. There were moment were I could connect with her, especially with the absurd things her parents did but also sometimes I felt like she was out of control and kind of being reckless.

Chase who as we learn from the blurb is responsible for her sister’s death, is the new guy in town and things could not get any more complicated. But like Beth, he was also something fresh for a YA book. He’s straight out of juvie and has zero tolerance for childish games, so he didn’t sugarcoat anything, in fact he was straightforward and blunt, so much so that I loved how honest he was whenever Beth went a little over the top crazy.

“Grow up, Beth. In the real world, bad boys are actually bad. They aren’t heroes. It’s not dope to hook up with them. Bad boys do bad shit and eventually drag everyone around them into the same pit.”

Beth and Chase together? I can see them being friends and overcoming this huge tragedy but the romance between the two felt a bit rushed and out of place, if Chase was not the hot guy she met one day and hooked up with I don’t think she would be as forgiving. I don’t know how anyone can be as forgiving as Beth was, that might be the only thing that didn’t fit this story for me. But Beth and Chase separately were exactly what I want more of in YA, two characters that break the norm and offer something fresh. As always, looking forward to reading more from this duo!

This was my fourth Erin Watt book and I quite enjoyed it. I was in the mood for a contemporary since it’s summer so I picked this one up. I really enjoyed their other books so I was excited to read this one. I liked the two main characters a lot and how they’re relationship with each other builds throughout the book. Although I did quite like this book, I wasn’t really surprised by the events. I could see where the story was going from the beginning so the plot fell kind of flat with me. I would like to see another story with these characters and I’m looking forward to reading any other books from this co-author team in the future.

Erin Watt has done it again, a great summer read of angst and love! I couldn't get enough of this book and am so happy to have read. Life for Beth has been difficult since the loss of her sister, and overprotective parents have become the norm. She struggles with life and fitting in and not having people give her pity. The chemistry between Beth and Chase is unreal! A must read for the summer!

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Receiving One small thing was kind of a surprise for me since I requested it way back in February I think and I pretty much gave up on the hope of getting it when it showed up. It was a welcomed surprise right up until I started to read it. I really struggled with getting into the story mostly because of the overly immature voice of the narration which just drove me up the walls. Admittedly it gets better as the story progresses but it still bothered me enough to struggle with the book.

This is an emotional story about forgiveness from the point of view of a misunderstood and confused teenage girl. There were a lot of amazing points in the plot which is the main reason why I enjoyed the book so much in the end. I felt for Beth because of the way her parents and her friend treaded her frustrated even me, an outsider so I don’t know what I would have done in her place. On the other hand, I also think she made a lot of mistakes along the way but you know what in her mindset it was not so surprising. Still, I really liked the way how she looks at Chase, she understood him and his side of the events. One thing thou, she should have voiced her feelings and view of things, instead of letting others dictate her life. Anyway, she matured a lot in the cures of the plot.
Chase was punishing himself; he made a stupid mistake, one bad decision which will overshadow the rest of his life. And while technically he paid the price he still thinks deep down that he needs to suffer. I liked his character a lot, especially the graceful and calm way he handled the bullying and prejudice directed his way.

The story was beautifully written but I think the author duo went a bit overboard with the way the other people treated Chase. I just don’t want to believe that even teacher would treat a student the way he was treated. I personally don’t want to believe that 17-18 years old kids can’t understand the difference between an accident and murder but we all know that some kids are capable of horrible things just because of fame, popularity and crowd mentality. It is just a horrible thing and unfortunately happens every day sometimes with serious consequences. Still, it was a bit too much for my taste; it didn’t make any sense for me.

There is an overabundance of teenage angst and drama in this book and if you like those kinds of YA book then this is for you. It is not my fave thing in the world yet I still enjoyed it a lot. So I definitely recommend it.

One Small Thing is an amazing read. It's full of feelings and emotions. Beth's sister, Rachel passed away three years ago. Since then her parents have become crazy controlling. They control every aspect of her life from whether she works to whether she has a bedroom door. Beth is craving independence and freedom. She clashes with her parents a lot. She meets Chase. Chase is everything she is craving. Chase has secrets and had a part in Rachel death. Rachel doesn't know who Chase is at first. Chase is not a harden criminal. He owns up to what he did and is remorseful, which makes him a likeable guy. I loved Chase. He's full a struggle and pain but he just need someone to believe in him. Beth has a huge heart. She struggles with her feelings for Chase and what her sister would think. Chase struggles with forgiving himself. These two have just great chemistry that I couldn't help but root for them to get a happy ending.

4.5 Stars!

One Small Thing is an angsty, heart wrenching story and I absolutely loved it! An addicting story of forgiveness & letting go, once I started reading I couldn't put it down.

Chase & Beth are both trying to put their pasts behind them, and struggling with where they fit in the present. A chance meeting results in an impossible relationship, and the fallout from their choices impacts everyone around them.

This book isn't an unrealistic high school romance. High school, especially these days, isn't easy and this book brings light to these issues. Bullying, abusive relationships, and grief are all present, and written beautifully. The struggles of every relationship - parent & child, friends, enemies, lovers - are all touched on, and the consequences of actions aren't glossed over.

If you are looking for a light, fun read this isn't it. But if you are looking for something that will pull you in, fill you with emotion, and make you really think, then this is the book for you!

I think One Small Thing is supposed to be a sad book but throughout all I felt was anger. I was engrossed and found myself whole-heartedly mad at the world because I can see this happening as I was reading. It made me sit back and think so hard because I can easily relate to why each character was behaving and reacting to each situation the way they did. To be honest, I think I was most angry with myself because no matter which way I dissected it I can see myself in each of the characters in this story for the good and the bad (okay maybe not one particular character). One Small Thing truly opened my eyes and reminded me to never judge or ridicule until you have walked in another’s shoes.

I usually find myself bored as soon as I figure out the plot and how it mostly likely will wrap up. However, with One Small Thing – it completely is beside the point. With this story it’s more of knowing but your heart needs the confirmation in order for it to continue to beat.

One Small Thing covered a few tough topics and covered it well. It gives us light at the other end of the tunnel.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It’s not a light-hearted book yet not a heavy read either. I really hope you all give it a go!

This book is an angsty, drama-filled YA novel by Erin Watt. I liked the overall story and really liked Chase's character and how he handled himself considering what he had to live with. Chase and Beth are two teenagers whose pasts are intertwined, making this somewhat of a star-crossed lovers story. It was emotional and involved a family who has lost a lot and a teenager who is trying to live for herself, not her sister.

I had a little bit of an issue with Beth's' parents. I realize they went through a lot, but they were really overboard with their treatment of their daughter. When this story starts, they have had 3 years to get themselves help, to step up and deal with their emotions, but they are stunted...especially her dad.. I think this was the main reason Beth is a little bit immature for the first half of the book, trying to rebel and pretty much thinking of only herself (typical for teenagers, I know, but still). In contrast to Chase, who has seen some dark days and come out the other side and is way more mature in how he handles his issues and the kids at school.

And then there is Jeff...I had him pegged from the first couple of chapters. That's all I will say about him so as to not give spoilers.

If you like drama, angst, and emotional books, you will enjoy this book. I enjoyed the story and most of the characters.

Erin Watt’s One Small Thing was most definitely not my cup of tea. Usually I am a sucker for a contemporary romance with heartfelt characters and sensitive issues, but this one felt so overly dramatic and full of angst with too many tropes to count.

The characters were all extremely unlikable to me, which was perpetuated by their lack of effective communication skills and ridiculous behavior. Beth’s parents were entirely too overbearing. I can see where they were coming from based on what happened to Beth’s sister, but their tactics were way too outlandish and screamed of people in desperate need of therapy and counseling.

Beth herself wasn’t very much of a wow factor for me either, and Chase ran from hot to cold, to hot again. His mood swings gave me whiplash.

I think this was meant to be a heartfelt story about coping in the aftermath of tragedy and learning how to forgive, but outside of Beth, the forgiveness aspect didn’t read that way at all to me. I’m sure this will appeal to a lot of people, but for me it was a dud.

*Thank you to Harlequin Teen and Netgalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

This is a hard book to review because I don't want to give away any spoilers because I really enjoyed this book. Our main character Beth, is trying to enjoy her life but her parent's have become extremely overprotective since her sister died 3 years ago in an accident. Chase is the new guy in town and is eager to make a fresh start after spending time in juvie. The twist between the two is fairly easy to figure out early in the book but I think that is what the author intended. I enjoyed both Beth and Chase's character and really liked Beth's personality and enjoyed watching her character development throughout the book. I love Erin Watt and this is actually the first stand alone book I have read by the author, but really enjoyed The Royals series. I really liked the relationship that Chase and Beth develop, despite all of the obstacles that they have to face. I also really enjoyed the ending to the book and all of the things that are finally worked out. I am of course hoping for a sequel, as with most stand alone books I read. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, I enjoyed both Beth and Chase's characters and the overall themes that are addressed in this book.

Thank you to the publisher, Harlequin Teen, for sending me an ARC of this book.

Erin Watt has such entertaining books. This one was the deepest and possibly my favorite. A guy accidentally killed a girl's sister and three years later she falls in love with him. How could that ever work out?

I loved Beth, really loved her. The way she grieved felt real because it was basically the way I have grieved over deaths. Just because one isn't a huge crier doesn't mean they are affected any less inside their heads.

Chase, Chase, Chase. I wanted to shake him ... a lot! What happened was horrible but it wasn't on purpose. And he needed hugs ... a bunch of them. But from Beth's parents perspective I get it, that was their other baby. But from an outside perspective it's much easier to see both sides of the coin.

This book was not full of lust like a lot of their other books. It was one that made me think, gave me emotions, and as hard as it is sometimes to do—forgiveness is the best option. If these two authors could write something like this together, I can't wait to see what they have next!

Gah! I absolutely loved this book! I don’t know how they keep doing this, excellent book after excellent book, but they do.
This book had all the feels. I laughed, I cried, I raged, I was shocked.
I LOVED Chase. So haunted, so trying to do what what’s right.
Beth was so feisty. There were so many times I raged on her behalf. She was so strong but put her emotions on display as well.
This book was everything and I loved it! Read it now!

Wow what an emotional and heart-warming read of love, forgiveness and letting go. The kind of emotions we all have but can't give to others unless we find them all within ourselves first.
I loved the underlying message of this book; hope and enjoying the little things. Finding that One. Small. Thing. every day that keeps you moving forward, they're there you just have to know where to look and except them for what they are.
This book was full of everything, teen angst and frustration especially, definitely nearing towards the mature side of an YA book. There were a lot of twists and reveals throughout, the struggles these characters went through. I just felt the ending was a little rushed, it could have had one more chapter at least to have had the opportunity to explain everything in a little more depth but saying that I was just greedy for more.
I LOVE this writing duo, their stories are always raw and unflinching and I really did enjoy One Small Thing very much indeed.

After a number of so-so reading experiences lately, I really needed an Erin Watt book. This duo’s writing is always so addicting and One Small Thing was no exception.

It says in the synopsis that Chase played a part in Beth’s sister’s death and I think it’s pretty obvious what that is. It doesn’t take long for the book to reveal it, either, but I’ll still try not to spoil it. I have to admit that this particular kind of trope is usually not one I go for. However, it worked for me here. I liked the conversations it brought it up. How differently people grieve. How people move on. How people judge. The topic of forgiveness. There was a lot more depth to this book than I expected there to be.

Though some of Beth’s behavior drove me a little crazy, I did find her a likable character. I wish she was more honest and she definitely made a lot of misguided decisions, but once she realized how poorly she was behaving she took steps to change it. And I loved Chase. I just loved him. I know he has some pretty obvious flaws, but I still thought he was pretty perfect. He was just so sweet and smart and a little tortured. I definitely shipped them and their moments together were my favorites of the book.

Overall, I really enjoyed One Small Thing. Though it was a little heavier than I was expecting, I thought it had a good message. I liked the main characters (especially Chase) and the romance. I did find everything to be just a little too predictable, though. Pretty much every development I guessed far ahead of time, so even though the writing was addictive and kept me turning the pages, the plot itself seemed a little drawn out and then things wrapped up very quickly at the end. However, the positive message and my love for Chase makes up for those aspects for me.

Overall Rating (out of 5): 4 Stars

A great YA read. Full of angst and twists. Finding friendships and love in the least likely of situations. Unraveling truths that hurt but will set you free and heal your pain. I recommend this book.