This book touched me in so many ways!! I fell in love with Beth and her story. I thought Erin did a wonderful job in creating her character. I also truly believe that even though this book is label as YA -- it is definitely a book for everyone!!

Received in exchange for a honest review.

I love Erin Watt books. I really do. I look forward to getting them on my kindle. So it saddens me to say that I could not finish this book. And it wasn’t because I didn’t love the story. I did. I love the concept and I especially loved Chase.

To me Chase so didn’t deserve to be ostracized. But he took it feeling he deserved it for the mistake he made. The fact that adults were also treating the way they were was disgusting. This was a kind, caring and sweet character. I could just read a whole book about him.

So it wasn’t the story line or Chase. To some extent it was not Beth even though at times I wanted to smack her upside the head. Chase is not a secret to keep and feel ashamed of and he truly needed someone by his side. Beth had her own issues and you do feel for her.

It was the jumping quickly from moment to moment that had me not finish. I needed a connection between events and the characters more. It was the vile side characters and their actions that left me feeling icky after seeing them on a page. I know that it didn’t always jump between moments but it was those especially at the beginning where you are really beginning the connection with characters and you need those moments that really did me in. For me the writing style for this book was what hurt me. Again not the story but the style in which the story was told. With side characters that are vile (ex. the best friend of Beth’s wow just wow and her parents and let’s not forget the teachers) and the disconnect you start with due to the jumping from moment to moment without any segue or getting to know what was going on. This was what did the book in for me. I tried to finish I did but I just couldn’t get into it with those characters and the writing style. This isn’t to say that anyone else wouldn’t fall in love with this book. Like I said if it was Chase only with Beth I would be in love with the book as they deal with their past and what is happening between them and learn to rise above the vileness and move on. If the writing have moments that have you disconnect I would be in love with it all except of course the side characters. So I encourage you to try the book for the content of the story is excellent and Erin Watt truly do tackle difficult topics wonderfully in all their books. For me I just couldn’t get past some minor issues in writing and those side characters. I will continue to read Erin Watt in the future because I do so love their stories and how they face difficult topics head on.

It seems like after paper princess, broken prince and twisted palace -I don't like their books anymore. The first three books were like god's gift and everything after is barely a "meh".

This book was AMAZING. 5 stars. This girl loses her sister and her parents become extremely strict on her so she doesn’t end up like her sister. She feels suffocated in her own home. She can’t even go to the college she wants. Her texts are being read by her parents. She has zero privacy. It’s how they found out about a party she went to. She wanted to be wild and crazy for once. She ended up giving up her virginity to a hot guy at the party. When she goes back to school to start her senior year there he is. All of her friends tries to keep her away from him. She thinks it’s because he must be a player. He must have some kind of bad reputation with women. Turns out it’s for something much more serious. What a serious page turner. I loved it. Thank you to netgalley for letting me review this book. It’s amazing. I can’t say that enough.

Hooo boy. Where do I start? I didn't think I would make it out of this one with my emotions intact. Meet our main characters: Beth, whose parents have gone beyond the pale on helicopter parenting since her sister died three years ago. And Chase, the boy who was driving the car that killed Beth's sister.

That's some baggage, yo.

Beth and Chase meet up at a party one night, and not knowing who the other is, spend a memorable night together. If they were any other people, we'd have a boring story about a couple of teens dating during their senior year. Instead we get a story of forgiveness and acceptance.

My feelings regarding OST are very conflicted. On the one hand, I want to believe that love can conquer all. On the other hand, can something as massive as Chase's actions that night ever be truly forgiven and forgotten? I don't have answers, but it is worth some philosophizing over.

Regarding the character development, Beth and Chase both were well fleshed out and showed incredible growth. Beth's relationship with her parents felt over the top, but I'm not seventeen anymore, so I have to remind myself that I would have acted the same back then.

The ending of the book threw me a bit. It felt rushed and unnatural. To be fair, I'm an epilogue-lover so I would have killed for a longer chapter to get their post-ending.

Overall, it was the type of Erin Watt story that sucks me in and keeps my attention. Can't wait for the next!

2.5 STARS

I adored When It's Real and had been looking forward to more from Erin Watt. Sadly, One Small Thing was a complete miss and left me feeling annoyed and unfulfilled. The plot was predictable, which isn't always a negative if the depth and overall storyline is engaging; which it was not. Beth was immature and unlikable, and there was little growth throughout the book. The secondary characters, especially Beth's parents were just as unlikable. The ending was rushed and so out of line with the events up that point. I was literally left scratching my head after finishing this one.

The book wasn't all negative. I thought the themes of grief and forgiveness were powerful. These are difficult tropes and aren't often addressed head on the YA world. I wish the focus had been more on these elements and Beth's character development.

I still adore this duo and hope their next work finds us back on the same path.


Thank you to Nina Bocci PR for my advanced review copy!

I was so excited to get an ARC of this books, I’d been wanting to read since I heard of its existence. I’m going to try and review this with as few spoilers as possible.

I do have mixed feelings though, I love the storyline I thought it was a great moral dilemma that Beth faced, her feelings towards Chase had to be difficult to process and I think she handled them in a great way for most of the story. Her parent’s behavior disturbed me, they were obviously struggling with their grief and weren’t dealing with it in the healthiest way. And then we have Jeff, I knew there was something sketchy about that bloke the second he was introduced, he just made my skin crawl. As for Chase, I liked his character but I wish we’d gotten his POV I think it would have added more depth to the story.

The part of the story that has made my feelings mixed is the ending, while it was good I felt like it the resolution happened way too quick. It felt a bit like all was resolved a couple of pages and I think it would have been better to have explored it a bit more and maybe made the last chapter an epilogue. To me, it just ended a bit too quick. Having said that it didn’t hinder my enjoyment and I was satisfied without how it all turned out.

Hmmmm, I’m not really sure how to review this book. First of all, it was complete surprise to receive this ARC, and it’s always awesome to get review copies from a favorite author. However, this book was not what I expected. And unfortunately, I didn’t really like it.

There is too much drama on this book, and it kind of felt like Erin Watt was trying to recreate the level of drama on The Royals, but it just didn’t work here.

I had a problem right off the bat with Beth, because I felt like the issue she had with her name was silly. She felt like Lizzi was too juvenile? Juvenile was making everyone change the way they’ve always addressed you just because. If the name change had been something related to her sister, fine, I would have gone with it. As it was, it made no sense!

I didn’t like Beth. At all. She was so dramatic. And I couldn’t understand her reasonings and her feelings. But worse than her were her parents and friends. Her friends were all terrible. Her parents couldn’t deal. This girl lost her phone, car and room door several times during the book… I lost count. It was making me so mad!

To be honest, I only liked one person in this book, and it was Chase! I felt sorry for the guy, because he was surrounded by awful people. And he lived with the weight and guilt of taking someone’s live, and no one was able to support him and make him see that it wasn’t all his fault. But he had such a good heart, and it pissed me off that he was being bullied all the time, and had no support at all.

The writing was engaging, and that is the reason I always end up coming back for more of Erin Watt, but I hated the excess drama, the terrible people and actions. And the romance didn’t make much sense. I don’t know, I didn’t feel it at all. I wasn’t sure if Chase really liked Beth, or if she pressured him so much, and given that she was the only person talking to him, he just kind of went with it?! That’s a terrible thought to have while reading a romance book…

HAVE YOU READ THIS BOOK? WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? DID YOU LIKE IT? OR WAS THE DRAMA TOO MUCH FOR YOU TOO?

Initial Thoughts:

I had really high hopes for this one because I absolutely loved Erin Watt's previous standalone novel, "When It's Real". Not to mention the cover is all kinds of gorgeousness! The synopsis really intrigued me as well; I couldn't imagine how a romance between a girl whose sister was killed by the guy she was developing feelings for could ever work out and just had to see how the story went.

Things I Liked:

Right from the start, I got star-crossed-lovers vibes from Chase and Beth. I couldn't imagine how a relationship between them could possibly ever work out because no matter what, her inner circle - the people who matter the most in her life - would always associate him with Rachel's death. Whatever connection there was between them would always be tainted with that fact. I tried to think of ways how they could possibly get around such a daunting obstacle and give a relationship between them a chance, but couldn't think of anything. As the story progressed and we got to know Chase better though, I realized that there was a small ray of light that could possibly be the saving grace for their growing feelings for one another: Despite his part in Rachel's death, Chase was generally a good guy. He endures a lot of his own difficulties - internally and externally - that are associated with Rachel's death, and I couldn't help but admire his strength, determination, and selflessness throughout it all.

Despite doing dumb and reckless things, and needlessly putting herself in dangerous situations, I actually couldn't help but admire Beth, too. She goes through a lot of change and character growth after the loss of her older sister; turning from a rebellious and reckless teenager, to a more introspective and more mature version of herself looking forward to the future. I also found the depth of Beth's ability to forgive very admirable, especially considering the circumstances she was in. Not many people can be so forgiving, myself included. I also sympathized with her immensely when she mentioned feeling "directionless" after losing her older sister, but simultaneously felt impressed that she was able to reach an epiphany that helped her realize what she was doing wrong when it came to her paranoid and overprotective parents.

The growing feelings and chemistry between Chase and Beth had me captivated and really invested in their story. A huge part of me felt that it was hopeless and thought that the book might end with them finally realizing they weren't going to work, but another part of me kept hoping that somehow, against all odds, they would find a way. I really enjoyed their dynamic; Beth's impulsive, persistent, determined, and feisty while Chase is withdrawn, selfless, honest, and cautious. Chase helped with Beth's character growth and Beth helped him realize that he still had a future to look forward to.

Things I Disliked:

Since this was an Erin Watt novel set in a high school, I guess I should have expected the soap-opera type of drama but, their previous stand-alone novel "When It's Real" had minimal amounts of it, so I had high hopes that this would be the same. (And, when I say "soap-opera type of drama", I mean meaningless mean girls who solely exist to cause drama for the heroine, so-called "best friends" who are so quick to backstab that I question their label of 'best friend', stereotypical ditzy girls and bully jocks, etc.) Unfortunately, it was not and felt more similar to their The Royals series. Maybe I should just stay away from their novels that predominantly occur in a high school.

In addition, this type of drama made the side plots really predictable and I found myself rolling my eyes and saying, "Oh, of course that happened" quite often. Every other character who wasn't Chase or Beth was unlikable and annoying, especially every person from their high school, adult and teenager alike. The students at Chase and Beth's school were acting more immature than the ones in the public schools, whom their peers viewed as lesser and barbaric, but for stereotypical rich and pretentious high school students I guess that was to be expected. The so-called adults were no better than the students themselves and were useless most of the time, especially when the jocks were blatantly bullying another student - during class, too! It also frustrated me to no end how everyone kept assuming things, especially in regards to Beth's feelings. I literally wanted to reach into the book and knock all those people out.

Final Thoughts:

Despite its predictability and cheesy soap opera type of drama, I enjoyed "One Small Thing" well enough to be entertained, but what really kept me turning the pages was the development of Chase and Beth's relationship. I became so interested and invested in their budding forbidden romance, and wanted to see how it all played out in the end. If you were already an Erin Watt fan, or wanted to start reading her books, I would definitely recommend picking up "One Small Thing". It has its heartfelt moments, angst, and a ton of drama, but highlights an intriguing story of forbidden love and forgiveness.

Wow, this was an emotional roller coaster! Beth's sister was killed in an accident a few years ago and ever since then, her parents have become more and more restrictive about her life. One night she goes to a party and meets Chase. Little does she know that Chase was involved in the accident that killed her sister. Beth's and Chase's feelings for each other start to deepen as everyone tries to keep them apart.

This was an intense book. It's a lot more than just a forbidden love story. There's a family dealing with the loss of a daughter/sister, there's a guy who just got out of juvie and is trying to adjust to his new life, there's an abusive and controlling boyfriend, and there's drinking, partying and hooking up. Somehow Erin Watt manages to weave all these topics together to create a compelling story with a great message. Everyone should find their "one small thing" each day, especially teenagers who have all kinds of stress going on in their life. I love this message and I think a lot of teenagers will benefit from it.

Beth was a pretty realistic character to me. She has her angsty and rebellious moments but she was also caring and practical. I couldn't help feeling bad for her whenever her parents were being ridiculous or she was torn apart about her feelings for Chase. I also liked Chase a lot. He made a terrible mistake and realized it and was trying to be better.

I would definitely recommend this for older teens. This was my first Erin Watt read and I would definitely read more!

Beth’s family has not been the same since her older sister was hit by a car and killed. The killer spent 3 years in juvenile detention and has been released. He attends school with Beth and is in many classes with her. But rather than being upset, Beth finds herself attracted to Chase. This is a novel full of endings and beginnings. High school students who are judgmental and self-absorbed are the main characters in this well-developed novel. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to be an early reader in exchange for my fair and honest review.

This story is about the ultimate in forgiveness…being able to forgive someone, even if they can’t forgive themselves. Beth is dealing with the death of her sister, the overprotective need of her parents to keep her from the same fate, and the misguided help from some of her friends. When she meets Chase, he’s like a breath of fresh air…someone who doesn’t know who she is or what she’s gone through. Someone she can be herself with. But, after she finds out that Chase was involved in her sister’s death, she is immediately torn between how she should feel and how she really feels. And that’s when we see the next element of this story…it’s also a tale of strength. Beth’s struggle to deal with the judgement of those around her while still staying true to her own feelings brings a delicious angst to this story.

Chase has served his time, he’s paid the price…but he’s not ready to forgive himself and he’s willing to accept the blame and contempt from others as added punishment for his guilt. However, Chase has a good heart. He’s truly sorry and, deep down, wants to be happy. But it’s difficult for him to take the next step in his life because he doesn’t feel he deserves it. Chase won my heart just like he won Beth’s. He brought so many feels and so much reality to this story and I loved him right from the very beginning. Together Chase and Beth have huge hurdles to overcome and, at times, she’s the only one rowing them towards the future. But her strength and his big heart lead them forward in a world that, ultimately, wants to push them back.

I loved this story and these characters. It’s incredible to me how the author is able to put so much feeling and heartache, so much love, hopefulness, and joy into a young adult story. These characters shouldn’t have lived this much, they shouldn’t have experienced this much, and they shouldn’t be so mature. But they are…and its an amazing ride to their happily ever after. Go grab your copy today!

(I decided to not write a review and post it on my blog. I really enjoyed this duo but this book didn't work for me. I look forward to more stories done by this amazing duo. Thank you for this opportunity to read it early).

I loved this. The story was beautiful and dealt with serious topics very well. The relationship was beautifully complicated and I loved them. The antagonist of the story felt very real which is sad that such a bad person feels so familiar.

I loved this book by Erin Watt and can't wait to read more by this author! This is an intense read, as it tells the story of a family affected by death and the people left after the girl's untimely death.

This book tells the story of Beth, whose sister died 3 years ago. Her sister was run over accidentally, and the young man responsible, Chase, gets locked away for 3 years.Beth is almost treated like a criminal herself, following the rules her parents have expect her to follow for the last 3 years. One night she decides to just go to a party to feel a little freedom.

Unfortunately, this is where she meets Chase, the young man responsible for her sister's death. Beth doesn't want anyone to know who she is, and Chase also has things to hide. One thing leads to another, and then Murphy's Law kicks in-meaning if one has bad luck, it shows up at the worst possible time! For both Chase and Beth it shows up!

Once she goes home she is in big trouble, and she says nothing about meeting a boy she knows nothing about, her life becomes unbearable, just like his! Starting at school, they run into each other and all hell breaks loose!

Read on and find out what happens! This book is filled with mental and physical angst, anger and depression, danger and love! One Small Thing shows up what a genius Erin Watt is by reading these words that have been written in this novel.

I gave this book 5***** stars and have added Erin Watt to my list of go to authors for great books! I can't wait to read more by this author!

I love all of erin wattd books. If you've read them before you know how addictive they are, I'm talking read the whole book in on sitting because you can't put it down. Her writing and stories are🙌🏻. I also loved the message of finding atleast on good thing in your life a day in this book. Would definitely recommend to friends.

I am a huge fan of Erin Watt and couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. This dynamic duo has done it again with book. It has it all from angst to emotions and learning to forgive.

Beth is a senior in high school but is very sheltered compared to the other kids her age. She isn’t allowed to do what most typical 17 years old would do after the death of her sister. One night she decides to break the rules and go to a party where she meets Chase. He has a draw that pulls her to him and she ends up spending the night with him.

Chase has been through a lot at a young age and doesn’t think he deserves someone like Beth. They have this pull towards one another.

Beth and Chase have had a lot happen in their young lives and deserve to be happy. My heart broke for these characters and what they went through. This was a heart felt book about love and second chances and is the perfect summer read.

I was an Erin Watt fan before reading this, but now I'm an even bigger fan! I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! I'd definitely recommend it!

I received an e-copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I went into this book completely blind. I had zero expectations... zero knowledge of the storyline, literally the only piece I had going into the book was that it was a standalone written by writing duo of Erin Watt. Let me give you all a teensy piece of info... this is completely YA. Did you hear me? COMPLETELY YA. LOL. A heavy dose of angst though. A very quick read. Character development was good... even though the secondary characters were all fairly unlikeable. Just to let people know that the romance factor, is fairly non-existent if that's something they were looking to read... 3 stars.

Erin Watt delivers as usual. They have a great grasp of teen pop culture without trying too hard, and that made the book a lot of fun. The story was interesting and kept me intrigued the entire time and it was a quick read. This is an author duo I highly enjoy and I’m looking forward to whatever comes next.