Review: Somewhere at Last by Julie Ann Knudsen
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 2, 2013
Somewhere at Last is book two from author Julie Ann Knudsen and it continues the story of teenager Willow Flynn.  Fractionally older, and following her mother's remarriage, Willow has a number of new experiences - new house, new job and development in her relationship with Michael.While reading "In the Middle of Nowhere" I was a little frustrated by Willow. She was fickle and selfish and made some really poor choices - although everything about her was 'typical' of a teenage girl.  Early on in Somewhere at Last I thought that I wasn't going to enjoy the book, because I was again frustrated by Willow and her 'teenage' behaviour.  But I have to say my early assessment was wrong, I ended up very much enjoying this story.  I was particularly impressed with the way Knudsen was able to create a character in Willow that I feel is a very accurate representation of a teenage girl.  By the end of the story I felt a connection with Willow and as in In the Middle of Nowhere, there was growth in her character that was realistic and refreshing.The relationship that develops with Michael is so sweet.  The two must deal with Michael's illness (he is a cystic fibrosis sufferer) along with all the usual challenges a teenage 'love' brings with it.  Despite his illness Michael is a very positive and thoughtful boy, with a distinct romantic streak.  While he had been somewhat absent in In the Middle of Nowhere, Michael plays a key role in this story.  There are a number of peripheral characters who all bring something to the story, but the focus is definitely Willow and Michael.  Tessa even makes a return and actually manages to show some real care/consideration for Willow at one point, which was quite a turn around.The story is not long, but it is touching and if you have read In the Middle of Nowhere you should definitely follow up with Somewhere at Last.  Knudsen has a lovely writing style that is easy to read.  The ending wraps up the story nicely, but also does leave the option of a further book in the series.(I was approached by the author to proofread Somewhere at Last prior to release.  An ARC was provided to me for that purpose.  This review is based on the ARC received from the author).