I don't typically read romance or contemporary style stories, so this book was definitely outside my norm.

This book had a "Nicholas Sparks" vibe, and could easily be a hallmark movie.

With that said, there were often times the characters frustrated me. I'll leave the whys out of my review since they would give you many things away I think.

Despite my frustrations with Elsie and Tyler the book was good. It had a clean romance with a story line to back it up, and neither side overshadowed the other.

I think its definitely worth a read if contemporary romance is your jam.

A beautiful story, but bring tissues you will need them , I loved the strength and resilience of Elsie, how she grows. It’s a wonderfully written story, fast paced as it grabs you from the start and doesn’t let you go. A well written story for romantics.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

4.5 Stars

I loved this book! It was sad, beautiful, haunting, romantic, and all the other emotions in between. It was a little hard to read some times because I just lost my mom over a year ago but maybe that made it better. I can't wait to read something else by this author.

Wow! I just finished reading this book and I wanted to write here immediately about it. This book is one of the best YA I have read in recent times. It is simple yet beautiful with a deep meaning.
Life Happens on the Stairs is a journey of a 17-year-old Elsie in a bad phase of her life. Her father is dying and she is in a relationship with a guy she isn't supposed to be and life doesn't look good. But she overcomes everything to have a happy ending.
The thing I liked about the book is it's writing style. The writing was elegant without any unwanted details. The story was fast-paced and hooks the reader right from page 1. The characters are relatable though they make questionable choices, we can relate and sympathise with them.
The grief of a family when a member dies is well captured in the book. But it is the chemistry between Elsie and Tyler is the major plus of this book. Though it seems weird that they have such a deep love in a short period of time, it was heartwarming to read. Overall, it's a well-written romance for hopeless romantics.