If you’re a fan of young adult fiction that tugs at your heartstrings, Laura Nowlin’s books are a must-read. Known for her emotionally charged storytelling, Nowlin has captured the hearts of readers worldwide with her poignant tales of love, loss, and friendship. Her debut novel, If He Had Been with Me, became a viral sensation, resonating with teens and adults alike. In this Reader-friendly guide, we’ll explore Laura Nowlin’s books in order, share why they’re so special, and help you dive into her captivating world. Whether you’re new to her work or a longtime fan, this post will ensure you read her books in the perfect sequence for maximum emotional impact.
Who Is Laura Nowlin?
Laura Nowlin is a New York Times bestselling author with a B.A. in English and Creative Writing from Missouri State University. An avid reader and self-proclaimed “starving artist,” she draws inspiration from her own life experiences, including her struggles with dyslexia and Multiple Sclerosis. Her raw, authentic prose and ability to capture the complexities of teenage emotions have made her a standout in YA romance. Based in St. Louis, Nowlin weaves stories that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable, earning her a dedicated fanbase on platforms like Goodreads and TikTok.
Why Read Laura Nowlin’s Books in Order?
Laura Nowlin’s books are best experienced in their publication order, especially for her If He Had Been with Me series, which follows the evolving relationships and tragic love story of characters like Autumn and Finny. Reading in order ensures you follow the emotional arcs and narrative progression as intended, avoiding spoilers and deepening your connection to the characters. Her standalone novel, This Song Is (Not) For You, can be read at any point, offering flexibility for new readers. Below, we’ve listed her books in publication order with insights to help you decide where to start.
Laura Nowlin Books in Order of Publication
Here’s the complete list of Laura Nowlin’s books, including her series and standalone novel, with brief summaries to spark your interest.
1. If He Had Been with Me (2013)
- Genre: Young Adult Romance
- Synopsis: This heartbreaking tale follows Autumn and Finny, childhood best friends whose lives drift apart in high school. Autumn, a quirky bookworm, navigates her feelings for Finny, the popular soccer player, as they reconnect in their senior year. Their renewed bond hints at romance, but a tragic car accident changes everything, leaving readers in tears. Nowlin’s lyrical prose and raw emotion make this a must-read for fans of The Fault in Our Stars or All the Bright Places.
- Why Read It?: This NYT bestseller is a viral TikTok sensation, praised for its realistic portrayal of adolescent love and loss. Readers call it “earth-shatteringly heartbreaking” and a story that lingers long after the last page.
- ISBN: 9781728205489 (Sourcebooks Fire)
Quote to Hook You: “I’ve loved him my whole life, and somewhere along the way, that love didn’t change but grew.” – Laura Nowlin
2. This Song Is (Not) For You (2015)
- Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
- Synopsis: This standalone novel follows Ramona, Sam, and Tom, three teens who form a close-knit band at music college. Ramona loves Sam, but when she starts dating Tom, a complex love triangle emerges. Written during Nowlin’s battle with undiagnosed Multiple Sclerosis, this short, intense story explores passion, friendship, and chasing dreams. It’s a lighter yet still emotional read compared to her series.
- Why Read It?: Perfect for readers who enjoy music-driven stories or complex relationships, this book offers a fresh perspective on love and self-discovery. It’s a great entry point if you’re hesitant to dive into Nowlin’s heavier themes.
- ISBN: 9781492602903 (Sourcebooks Fire)
3. If Only I Had Told Her (2024)
- Genre: Young Adult Romance
- Synopsis: The second book in the If He Had Been with Me series, this novel picks up after the events of the first, told through multiple perspectives, including Autumn, Jack, and Finny. As Finn reconnects with Autumn and plans to end things with his girlfriend Sylvie, a fatal accident shifts the narrative to grief and guilt. Jack, Finn’s best friend, grapples with blame, while Autumn faces her own regrets. This sequel deepens the emotional stakes of the original.
- Why Read It?: Fans of the first book will love this continuation, which offers new insights into beloved characters. Be prepared for tissues—this one hits hard
- ISBN: 9781728276229 (Sourcebooks Fire)
Reading Order Tips
- For the If He Had Been with Me Series: Start with If He Had Been with Me (Book 1) and follow with If Only I Had Told Her (Book 2) to experience the full emotional journey of Autumn and Finny. The series’ chronological order is essential for understanding the characters’ relationships and the impact of key events.
- For This Song Is (Not) For You: This standalone can be read before, between, or after the series without spoiling anything. It’s a great choice if you want a break from the series’ heavier themes.
- Re-Reading Tip: Many fans recommend re-reading If He Had Been with Me before If Only I Had Told Her to refresh your memory of Finny and Autumn’s story, as the sequel references earlier events.
Why Laura Nowlin’s Books Resonate with Readers
Laura Nowlin’s books stand out for their authenticity and emotional depth. Her debut novel, inspired by a dream during a dark period in her life, blends real-life elements with fiction, creating characters that feel like old friends. Her struggles with dyslexia and health challenges add a layer of vulnerability to her writing, making her stories deeply relatable. Fans on Goodreads and TikTok praise her for capturing the raw intensity of teenage love and loss, often comparing her to authors like Jennifer Lynn Barnes or Kathleen Glasgow.
Reader Review: “The ending of If He Had Been with Me brought me to absolute tears… Nowlin’s story succeeds in leaving the reader invested even after closing the book.” – Pine Reads Review
Where to Find Laura Nowlin’s Books
You can purchase Laura Nowlin’s books at major retailers like:
- Amazon: Check out her author page for e-books, paperbacks, and audiobooks.
- ThriftBooks: Great for discounted copies.
- Bookshop.org: Support independent bookstores.
- Local Libraries: Nowlin’s work is widely available, especially at libraries where she draws inspiration from her own library job.
Pro tip: The audiobook of If He Had Been with Me is a fan favorite, with many saying it “resurrected Finny” in their minds, enhancing the emotional experience.
What’s Next for Laura Nowlin?
Nowlin has hinted at a new project—an adult novel that promises to be her darkest yet, exploring “twisted perspectives” and characters who are “lost and know they will never be found.” While no release date has been confirmed, fans are buzzing with anticipation. Follow her on Goodreads or Twitter for updates, though she admits to infrequent posting due to her busy life as a mom.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Laura Nowlin Journey Today
Laura Nowlin’s books are a rollercoaster of emotions, perfect for readers who crave stories that feel real and raw. By reading her books in order—starting with If He Had Been with Me, followed by This Song Is (Not) For You, and concluding with If Only I Had Told Her—you’ll experience the full depth of her storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to tragic love stories or music-infused friendships, Nowlin’s work will leave you reflecting on love, loss, and the moments that shape us.
Have you read any of Laura Nowlin’s books yet? Which one is your favorite? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you! For more book recommendations, check out our guides to authors like Sally Rooney or Alison Espach.
