REVIEW: Every Time You Go Away by Abigail Johnson

Every Time You Go Away by Abigail Johnson: Ethan and Rebecca have known each other since childhood. From splashing about together in the pool, to painting their first ever treehouse together (in which they may or may not have shared their first kiss…), Rebecca and Ethan share some of their most precious memories together. All of which are taken away every time Rebecca would find that single flower on the windowsill. The flower that signalled Ethan’s mother had come back once again to take him away.

Three years on, Ethan makes a surprising reappearance back in town and a lot has changed. He’s seen more than any child should ever have to see in their life and dealing with the grief of losing his childhood because of his mother’s drug use. Rebecca is dealing with her own grief. A few years ago her and her father had been caught in a terrible accident resulting in his death and the loss of her ability to use her legs. Ethan and Rebecca must now navigate their newfound challenges and grief as well as sort out their messy childhood if they want a chance to rekindle the spark that has always been between them and face their future together.

‘Every Time You Go Away’ was incredible. I felt such a strong emotional connection to the two protagonists and their story was one that I’ll never forget. I loved how Abigail Johnson addressed the real issues that wheelchair users face in a society which caters poorly to disabled people, rather than glossing over the topic as I’ve seen other authors do previously.

This book felt so authentic and real and there were many themes which appealed to me such as romance, disability, coming-of-age and navigating what plainly is just real-life. I could not recommend this book enough to young adults, there is something for everyone in this story and is just definitely worth reading!
TW’s: Drug use, Alcohol use

Book Info:

Publication: December 5, 2023 | Inkyard Press | Reading age: 13 years and up

Perfect for fans of Jennifer Niven, Abigail Johnson draws a searing and lyrical portrait of grief, forgiveness, and the kind of love that blooms in the aftermath.

Eight years ago, Ethan and Rebecca met, two trouble-making kids sharing secrets and first kisses in a treehouse, until Ethan’s mom returned to take him away. Each and every visit, his only goodbye was a flower on Rebecca’s windowsill.

Three years ago, Ethan left for the last time to take care of his mother, who’s struggled with addiction his whole life.

Two years ago, Rebecca was in a car accident that killed her father. She’s been learning to navigate life as a wheelchair user ever since.

Now, they discover if their hardships have torn them apart…or will bring them closer than ever.