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One Way or Another
Sliding Doors meets To All the Boys I've Loved Before in a sweet, smart holiday romance about a girl who decides to stop letting her anxiety stand in the way of true love.
The average person makes 35,000 decisions every single day. That's about 34,999 too many for Paige Collins who lives in debilitating fear of making the wrong choice. The simple act of picking an art elective is enough to send her into a spiral of what ifs. What if she's destined to be a famous ceramicist but wastes her talent in drama club? What if there's a carbon monoxide leak in the ceramics studio and everyone drops dead? (Grim, but possible!)
That's why when Paige is presented with two last-minute options for Christmas vacation, she's paralyzed by indecision. Should she go with her best friend (and longtime crush) Fitz to his family's romantic mountain cabin? Or should she accompany her mom to New York, a city Paige has spent her whole life dreaming about?
Just when it seems like Paige will crack from the pressure of choosing, fate steps in -- in the form of a slippery grocery store floor -- and Paige's life splits into two very different parallel paths. One path leads to New York where Paige falls for the city... and the charms of her unexpected tour guide. The other leads to the mountains where Paige might finally get her chance with Fitz... until her anxiety threatens to ruin everything.
However, before Paige gets her happy ending in either destiny, she'll have to face the truth about her struggle with anxiety -- and learn that you don't have to be "perfect" to deserve true love.
The average person makes 35,000 decisions every single day. That's about 34,999 too many for Paige Collins who lives in debilitating fear of making the wrong choice. The simple act of picking an art elective is enough to send her into a spiral of what ifs. What if she's destined to be a famous ceramicist but wastes her talent in drama club? What if there's a carbon monoxide leak in the ceramics studio and everyone drops dead? (Grim, but possible!)
That's why when Paige is presented with two last-minute options for Christmas vacation, she's paralyzed by indecision. Should she go with her best friend (and longtime crush) Fitz to his family's romantic mountain cabin? Or should she accompany her mom to New York, a city Paige has spent her whole life dreaming about?
Just when it seems like Paige will crack from the pressure of choosing, fate steps in -- in the form of a slippery grocery store floor -- and Paige's life splits into two very different parallel paths. One path leads to New York where Paige falls for the city... and the charms of her unexpected tour guide. The other leads to the mountains where Paige might finally get her chance with Fitz... until her anxiety threatens to ruin everything.
However, before Paige gets her happy ending in either destiny, she'll have to face the truth about her struggle with anxiety -- and learn that you don't have to be "perfect" to deserve true love.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2020
96 people are currently reading
6156 people want to read
About the author
Kara McDowell
6 books427 followersKara McDowell is the author of romcoms for teenagers and adults, including her upcoming adult debut THE WRITE OFF. Coming from Berkley in Spring 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 621 reviews
September 16, 2020
This book was so fun! If you're looking for good anxiety rep, a cute romance, and a holiday setting, you should definitely pick this up.
The concept behind this book is so unique and interesting, making it truly unlike any book I've read before. The characters are well created and developed; I loved watching our main character grow. I also loved her battle with anxiety and the accurate way it was depicted.
I'm so excited for more people to read (and fall in love with) this book.
(4.5/5 Stars, full review to come)
The concept behind this book is so unique and interesting, making it truly unlike any book I've read before. The characters are well created and developed; I loved watching our main character grow. I also loved her battle with anxiety and the accurate way it was depicted.
I'm so excited for more people to read (and fall in love with) this book.
(4.5/5 Stars, full review to come)
December 16, 2020
3.5 Stars
Well that was a cute YA holiday romance!
I think the author's handling of anxiety was done with care and consideration and that Paige was a relatable teen suffering from this disorder. It took me a while to buy into the romance but I ended up thinking it was quite adorable. I love 'Sliding Doors' type stories and I think this will be a good addition to the library.
Well that was a cute YA holiday romance!
I think the author's handling of anxiety was done with care and consideration and that Paige was a relatable teen suffering from this disorder. It took me a while to buy into the romance but I ended up thinking it was quite adorable. I love 'Sliding Doors' type stories and I think this will be a good addition to the library.
January 12, 2021
3.5 talvez 4
Comecei a ler no ano passado junto com o audiobook, mas em dezembro acabei interrompendo todas as minhas leituras e retomei agora em janeiro.
Esse livro poderia virar um filme da Hallmark (inclusive faz referência aos filmes).
O que eu mais gostei nele foi que, além de encontrar uma história natalina fofa no estilo comédia romântica, encontrei também uma história que fala sobre saúde mental e apresenta, mesmo que brevemente, uma doença autoimune chamada Esclerose Múltipla.
Ah! E de bonus ainda cita Nora Ephron :)
Comecei a ler no ano passado junto com o audiobook, mas em dezembro acabei interrompendo todas as minhas leituras e retomei agora em janeiro.
Esse livro poderia virar um filme da Hallmark (inclusive faz referência aos filmes).
O que eu mais gostei nele foi que, além de encontrar uma história natalina fofa no estilo comédia romântica, encontrei também uma história que fala sobre saúde mental e apresenta, mesmo que brevemente, uma doença autoimune chamada Esclerose Múltipla.
Ah! E de bonus ainda cita Nora Ephron :)
June 30, 2024
ARC Provided by Scholastic Press. Thank you!!!
-------
I apologize in advance if this review seems very ramble-ly, but boy oh boy, my poor POOR heart is still reeling from this emotional rollercoaster of a story!
I read One Way or Another in one sitting, but now I’m wishing I hadn’t. It was everything I dreamed it would be and more, and I’m so bummed that it’s over. It was sweet, swoon-worthy, romantic, relatable, and so very meaningful. Don’t let its playful cover and adorable synopsis fool you– This book may be wonderfully fluffy and fun, but it is beautifully open and honest as well. What do I mean by that, you might be wondering? Well, Paige, our protagonist, lives with extreme anxiety and the constant fear of making a wrong decision. The way her mental struggles were portrayed was SO realistic (although it should be noted that everyone deals with anxiety differently). As someone who understands the never ending struggle with anxiety and (if I’m being honest) basic human interaction, I was so, so happy to see my thoughts represented through Paige. Seriously… as I was reading, I was thinking… Hold up. I’m not the only one who feels this way? Someone else understands my struggles! I’m not alone!
Beyond that, the way in which Paige’s anxiety was accepted by the other characters in the story was so heartwarming. Fitz, Paige’s best friend and long-time crush, was so sweet when it came to helping Paige during her panic attacks and making sure that she felt seen, heard, and appreciated. He was literally the cutest, kindest, most thoughtful fictional boy EVER, and I think I might be in love with him. I’m not even kidding! We need more boys like Fitz in the world!
The story itself was wonderfully plotted and perfectly paced. Romance, friendship, mystery, and Christmas magic were all things that contributed to me flipping the pages like a madwoman! I do understand that it’s the middle of September, but the whimsical feeling of Christmas is something that should be celebrated all year long, in my opinion! And this book does just that.
I won’t spoil anything, but One Way or Another couldn’t have ended more perfectly than it did. The way the two main story-lines merged in the epilogue was simply brilliant, and I applaud Kara McDowell for crafting something so original and unique!
I’m not exaggerating when I say that One Way or Another is one of the best contemporary novels I’ve ever read. I will be recommending this wonderful adventure to EVERYBODY, even after the holiday season is over. I don’t think I have ever felt this way about any book before, and I’m so happy that this one came into my life when it did. If you’re a fan of swoon-worthy boys in magical, Christmas-y settings, One Way or Another is definitely the book for you. Its heartwarming themes, phenomenal mental health rep, and adorable romance all make it an absolutely spectacular story. I truly cannot recommend it enough!
-------
I apologize in advance if this review seems very ramble-ly, but boy oh boy, my poor POOR heart is still reeling from this emotional rollercoaster of a story!
I read One Way or Another in one sitting, but now I’m wishing I hadn’t. It was everything I dreamed it would be and more, and I’m so bummed that it’s over. It was sweet, swoon-worthy, romantic, relatable, and so very meaningful. Don’t let its playful cover and adorable synopsis fool you– This book may be wonderfully fluffy and fun, but it is beautifully open and honest as well. What do I mean by that, you might be wondering? Well, Paige, our protagonist, lives with extreme anxiety and the constant fear of making a wrong decision. The way her mental struggles were portrayed was SO realistic (although it should be noted that everyone deals with anxiety differently). As someone who understands the never ending struggle with anxiety and (if I’m being honest) basic human interaction, I was so, so happy to see my thoughts represented through Paige. Seriously… as I was reading, I was thinking… Hold up. I’m not the only one who feels this way? Someone else understands my struggles! I’m not alone!
Beyond that, the way in which Paige’s anxiety was accepted by the other characters in the story was so heartwarming. Fitz, Paige’s best friend and long-time crush, was so sweet when it came to helping Paige during her panic attacks and making sure that she felt seen, heard, and appreciated. He was literally the cutest, kindest, most thoughtful fictional boy EVER, and I think I might be in love with him. I’m not even kidding! We need more boys like Fitz in the world!
The story itself was wonderfully plotted and perfectly paced. Romance, friendship, mystery, and Christmas magic were all things that contributed to me flipping the pages like a madwoman! I do understand that it’s the middle of September, but the whimsical feeling of Christmas is something that should be celebrated all year long, in my opinion! And this book does just that.
I won’t spoil anything, but One Way or Another couldn’t have ended more perfectly than it did. The way the two main story-lines merged in the epilogue was simply brilliant, and I applaud Kara McDowell for crafting something so original and unique!
I’m not exaggerating when I say that One Way or Another is one of the best contemporary novels I’ve ever read. I will be recommending this wonderful adventure to EVERYBODY, even after the holiday season is over. I don’t think I have ever felt this way about any book before, and I’m so happy that this one came into my life when it did. If you’re a fan of swoon-worthy boys in magical, Christmas-y settings, One Way or Another is definitely the book for you. Its heartwarming themes, phenomenal mental health rep, and adorable romance all make it an absolutely spectacular story. I truly cannot recommend it enough!
September 1, 2020
*Thank you Edelweiss & Scholastic for providing me with an e-ARC of this book. All thoughts are my own*
Aww, this was angsty! But sweet! Angstily sweet? Sweetly angsty? One of those for sure.
I should probably start by saying the I have Anxiety Disorder (more specifically Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and OCD), which was the main reason why I requested this book. I mean, I'm a hopeless romantic to boot so when I see a book dealing with Anxiety and romance it's like it's calling for me to read it.
And I did enjoy it!
Granted, it may have been a tad bit too angsty for my liking but hey the poor protagonist is dealing with severe Anxiety issues so it makes sense.
Though it did take me a while before I started to get into it. Before getting into it I was only mildly intrigued and might not have finished reading if it wasn't an ARC. I'm glad I pushed through
though because it was a sweet story overall.
I loved Fitz. Oh, Fitz made me emotional with how supportive and understanding of Paige he was. Fitz is the kind of guy every girl with Anxiety wants by her side. Whenever he helped her calm down from her anxiety/panic with "5 things you can see" I was part 😭 part 🥺. I need a Fitz in my life, Fitz made me hope that maybe, somehow, a boy can understand me just as much Fitz does Paige.
Aww, this was angsty! But sweet! Angstily sweet? Sweetly angsty? One of those for sure.
I should probably start by saying the I have Anxiety Disorder (more specifically Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and OCD), which was the main reason why I requested this book. I mean, I'm a hopeless romantic to boot so when I see a book dealing with Anxiety and romance it's like it's calling for me to read it.
And I did enjoy it!
Granted, it may have been a tad bit too angsty for my liking but hey the poor protagonist is dealing with severe Anxiety issues so it makes sense.
Though it did take me a while before I started to get into it. Before getting into it I was only mildly intrigued and might not have finished reading if it wasn't an ARC. I'm glad I pushed through
though because it was a sweet story overall.
I loved Fitz. Oh, Fitz made me emotional with how supportive and understanding of Paige he was. Fitz is the kind of guy every girl with Anxiety wants by her side. Whenever he helped her calm down from her anxiety/panic with "5 things you can see" I was part 😭 part 🥺. I need a Fitz in my life, Fitz made me hope that maybe, somehow, a boy can understand me just as much Fitz does Paige.
December 1, 2020
Ik heb maar een iets te zeggen momenteel: 😭😍🥺🥰😍😱😭😭😭
Recensie kan je hier vinden: https://axellesbooks.wordpress.com/20...
P.s. De auteur vindt Harry Styles leuk en als dat je ook niet het boek doet lezen, dan weet ik het ook niet hoor.
Recensie kan je hier vinden: https://axellesbooks.wordpress.com/20...
P.s. De auteur vindt Harry Styles leuk en als dat je ook niet het boek doet lezen, dan weet ik het ook niet hoor.
December 2, 2020
Pick this up if you're looking for Christmassy YA reads! It's a super charming story that reminded me a lot of those 90s romcom movies. I loved the dual timeline and the anxiety rep was great!
March 26, 2023
Взагалі дивно так пізно читати книгу з різдвяною атмосферою, проте, вона досить легко читається, тому похвалюсь, що я її прочитала за неповних 3 дні 😁
В центрі сюжету - головна героїня Пейдж, яка вже років 5 мінімум безнадійно закохана в свого найкращого друга Фітца - красунчика, бейсболіста, романтика і просто класного хлопця. Історія цих двох починається з того, що перед самим Різдвом Фітца кидає чергова дівчина, і він як завжди викликає Пейдж, бо хто ж як не вона втішить його:)
Пейдж, яка завжди нереально ревнує його до всіх його колишніх, не очікувала, що саме сьогодні Фітц запропонує провести їй різдвяні канікули в їхньому сімейному котеджі з його родиною, в захваті від новини, вона випадково віддає йому листа, якого написала перед цим, де і зізнається йому в коханні і в тому, що вони більше не можуть бути друзями, адже вона його ненавидить за те, що він завжди закохується в інших дівчат, а не в неї. Приголомшена новиною про сумісний різдвяний вікенд, вона не встигає забрати листа, і тут і починається вся її різдвяна пригода.
Пейдж -17-річна школярка, яка має тривожний розлад, з яким вона фактично без Фітца і не вміє впоратись, адже саме він завжди рятує її від панічних атак, знає чимало трюків, як відволікти її, і заспокоїти, саме через це вона кохає його ще більше.
Взагалі мені героїня відразу нагадала ГГ " Коефіцієнт поцілунку" - Стеллу, ну дуже вже вони мені схожі, хто читав - той зрозуміє, а Стелла мене дратувала більше як пів книги 😂😂. Тут теж щось схоже, єдине, що сама героїня була не в курсі свого діагнозу, а просто сама намагалась з цим якось жити. Що найпомітніше в її розладі - щодня на будь-яку ситуацію в неї є завжди безліч питань " а що як" і всі вони мають лише негативний розвиток подій : а що як ліфт застряне, а що як Фітц прочитає листа, а що як вона втратить друга через своє зізнання, а що як ....Приготуйтесь, бо це все є на протязі майже всієї книги 😂😂
В тім, до історії : задумка мені дуже сподобалась! Героїня мріє в майбутньому подорожувати світом, і вести якийсь свій журнал подорожей, тревел-блог, в неї в кімнаті на кожній стіні безліч фото містечок, які б вона хотіла відвідати, адже в своєму маленькому містечку вона не бачить для себе майбутнього, тим часом, як хлопець, в якого вона безнадійно закохана - майбутня зірка бейсболу і планує будувати кар'єру бейсболіста саме в їхньому місті. Перед Пейдж постає важкий вибір : як обрати, де провести Різдво - з коханою людиною, яка і досі не знає про її почуття, чи з мамою в Нью-Йорку, який вона так давно мріяла відвідати, і взагалі - це б була перша її справжня подорож)) Якби ж то можна було бути у двох місцях одночасно 🙃
Не буду розкривати подробиць, але якимось дивом так і станеться : Пейдж паралельно буде переживати свою історію в двох місцях, взнає себе іншу, нову, як це, коли тобі подобається ще хтось, але він не вміє тебе так заспокоїти, як Фітц 🥰🥰, ба більше її перший поцілунок буде не з тим, в кого вона давно закохана 🤧🤧
Взагалі, як виявилось в обох варіантах - історія закінчується тим, що ці двоє дурників, які так давно мовчали про свої почуття - все ж таки зізнаються, і виявиться, що вони обоє і безнадійно закохані один в одного ❤️
Тому, раджу прочитати цю бурхливу, нехай трошки дитячу, проте повну щирих зізнань історію, не зважаючи на те, що Різдво вже давно позаду 😉
В центрі сюжету - головна героїня Пейдж, яка вже років 5 мінімум безнадійно закохана в свого найкращого друга Фітца - красунчика, бейсболіста, романтика і просто класного хлопця. Історія цих двох починається з того, що перед самим Різдвом Фітца кидає чергова дівчина, і він як завжди викликає Пейдж, бо хто ж як не вона втішить його:)
Пейдж, яка завжди нереально ревнує його до всіх його колишніх, не очікувала, що саме сьогодні Фітц запропонує провести їй різдвяні канікули в їхньому сімейному котеджі з його родиною, в захваті від новини, вона випадково віддає йому листа, якого написала перед цим, де і зізнається йому в коханні і в тому, що вони більше не можуть бути друзями, адже вона його ненавидить за те, що він завжди закохується в інших дівчат, а не в неї. Приголомшена новиною про сумісний різдвяний вікенд, вона не встигає забрати листа, і тут і починається вся її різдвяна пригода.
Пейдж -17-річна школярка, яка має тривожний розлад, з яким вона фактично без Фітца і не вміє впоратись, адже саме він завжди рятує її від панічних атак, знає чимало трюків, як відволікти її, і заспокоїти, саме через це вона кохає його ще більше.
Взагалі мені героїня відразу нагадала ГГ " Коефіцієнт поцілунку" - Стеллу, ну дуже вже вони мені схожі, хто читав - той зрозуміє, а Стелла мене дратувала більше як пів книги 😂😂. Тут теж щось схоже, єдине, що сама героїня була не в курсі свого діагнозу, а просто сама намагалась з цим якось жити. Що найпомітніше в її розладі - щодня на будь-яку ситуацію в неї є завжди безліч питань " а що як" і всі вони мають лише негативний розвиток подій : а що як ліфт застряне, а що як Фітц прочитає листа, а що як вона втратить друга через своє зізнання, а що як ....Приготуйтесь, бо це все є на протязі майже всієї книги 😂😂
В тім, до історії : задумка мені дуже сподобалась! Героїня мріє в майбутньому подорожувати світом, і вести якийсь свій журнал подорожей, тревел-блог, в неї в кімнаті на кожній стіні безліч фото містечок, які б вона хотіла відвідати, адже в своєму маленькому містечку вона не бачить для себе майбутнього, тим часом, як хлопець, в якого вона безнадійно закохана - майбутня зірка бейсболу і планує будувати кар'єру бейсболіста саме в їхньому місті. Перед Пейдж постає важкий вибір : як обрати, де провести Різдво - з коханою людиною, яка і досі не знає про її почуття, чи з мамою в Нью-Йорку, який вона так давно мріяла відвідати, і взагалі - це б була перша її справжня подорож)) Якби ж то можна було бути у двох місцях одночасно 🙃
Не буду розкривати подробиць, але якимось дивом так і станеться : Пейдж паралельно буде переживати свою історію в двох місцях, взнає себе іншу, нову, як це, коли тобі подобається ще хтось, але він не вміє тебе так заспокоїти, як Фітц 🥰🥰, ба більше її перший поцілунок буде не з тим, в кого вона давно закохана 🤧🤧
Взагалі, як виявилось в обох варіантах - історія закінчується тим, що ці двоє дурників, які так давно мовчали про свої почуття - все ж таки зізнаються, і виявиться, що вони обоє і безнадійно закохані один в одного ❤️
Тому, раджу прочитати цю бурхливу, нехай трошки дитячу, проте повну щирих зізнань історію, не зважаючи на те, що Різдво вже давно позаду 😉
October 4, 2020
Trigger warnings:
I don't know I just loved this. The anxiety rep was on point (for me), the friends to lovers relationship was not without its complications, but lovely and I loved Paige's growth so very much. If you're looking for a sweet, endearing read perfect for the winter season, definitely recommending that one :)
Full review coming soon :)
My Blog - Drizzle & Hurricane Books - Twitter - Bookstagram - Bloglovin'
I don't know I just loved this. The anxiety rep was on point (for me), the friends to lovers relationship was not without its complications, but lovely and I loved Paige's growth so very much. If you're looking for a sweet, endearing read perfect for the winter season, definitely recommending that one :)
Full review coming soon :)
My Blog - Drizzle & Hurricane Books - Twitter - Bookstagram - Bloglovin'
February 23, 2023
3 stars
Very sweet but didn't love the ending as much as I wanted to. I kinda liked Harrison more than Fitz but c'est la vie. As someone with anxiety, I appreciate the anxiety rep in this one, I think it was pretty well done. Getting help for mental illness and emotional struggles is so important <333
I also enjoyed the original storytelling because the cliffhangers had me flying through the pages!
Very sweet but didn't love the ending as much as I wanted to. I kinda liked Harrison more than Fitz but c'est la vie. As someone with anxiety, I appreciate the anxiety rep in this one, I think it was pretty well done. Getting help for mental illness and emotional struggles is so important <333
I also enjoyed the original storytelling because the cliffhangers had me flying through the pages!
December 2, 2021
yo avise que si se quedaba con el que no me gustaba le iba a dar una sola estrella.
October 24, 2020
DNF at 55%. It’s very obvious how this one’s going to end. Like the other poor boy ever had a chance. I don’t see what she sees in Fitz. The writing is very bland despite the awesome holiday season and settings in NYC and a snowy cabin. The main character is just too annoying for me. She is paralyzed by her anxiety and it holds back her relationships so much. Even the audiobook can’t save this one. 10 Blind Dates was much more fun for a YA holiday romance.
I received a free e-arc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free e-arc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2020
This whole book was fun and super cute, but at around the 90% mark, stuff was happening that had me looking like this:
There was nothing that made Paige more anxious than making decisions. When faced with THE BIG CHRISTMAS DECISION - go to New York with her mother or spend the holiday with her longtime crush, she found herself at her wits' end. Well, that was until the universe got involved and allowed her to live out both possibilities. Now the question was, will Paige get her HEA in either or both of these universes?
I hate when I read a book that I LOVED, but revealing some of the most fabulous parts would betray my no-spoiler loving self. Therefore, I am going to try and highlight a few things I simply adored about this book and hope you get to discover the rest, when you read ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
It's an adorable rom-com
This story was sweet and fun and funny, and it just made me smile. I loved that Fitz was this H U G E rom-com fan, who was in love with love. He was the king of grand gestures, and it was easy to understand why Paige was pining for him. There were over-the-top moments, tender moments, swoony moments, and all of them fueled my desire to see these two make a love connection.
It was a great dose of holiday cheer
I actually don't read a lot of holiday themed books, though, I don't know why, because they never fail to lift my spirits. The family, presents, SNOW, and general holiday cheer in this book put me in a great mood. I got to frolic in New York City AND experience the holiday traditions in the mountain town of Williams, Arizona. At one point, I was ready to don my ugly sweater and make some eggnog, just so I could keep the jubilant energy going.
It wasn't just fluff
As much as I love a good, fluffy rom-com, I also like it to have some depth. I got that from this book via Paige's struggle with anxiety. McDowell handled it so well, and it was great to see the multiple ways Paige dealt with her disorder. There was no anti-anything, as pharmaceutical and talk therapy, as well as relaxation strategies and cognitive behavioral therapies were discussed. It was also wonderful to see how supportive her family and friends were, which is such a vital thing for anyone with an illness.
It had a such a great ending
I honestly smiled from beginning to end as I read this book. It was a delight to watch destiny take its course as I grinned, laughed, and swooned. As amazing as the story was for me, it got EVEN BETTER. At about 90%, things started happening which left me extra giddy and filled with glee. Really, I couldn't think of any way to make it better.
Overall, this book was an utter joy to read. I cannot wait for everyone to take this journey with Paige as she explores her possibilities, learns new things about herself, and gets her happily ever after.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
There was nothing that made Paige more anxious than making decisions. When faced with THE BIG CHRISTMAS DECISION - go to New York with her mother or spend the holiday with her longtime crush, she found herself at her wits' end. Well, that was until the universe got involved and allowed her to live out both possibilities. Now the question was, will Paige get her HEA in either or both of these universes?
I hate when I read a book that I LOVED, but revealing some of the most fabulous parts would betray my no-spoiler loving self. Therefore, I am going to try and highlight a few things I simply adored about this book and hope you get to discover the rest, when you read ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
It's an adorable rom-com
This story was sweet and fun and funny, and it just made me smile. I loved that Fitz was this H U G E rom-com fan, who was in love with love. He was the king of grand gestures, and it was easy to understand why Paige was pining for him. There were over-the-top moments, tender moments, swoony moments, and all of them fueled my desire to see these two make a love connection.
It was a great dose of holiday cheer
I actually don't read a lot of holiday themed books, though, I don't know why, because they never fail to lift my spirits. The family, presents, SNOW, and general holiday cheer in this book put me in a great mood. I got to frolic in New York City AND experience the holiday traditions in the mountain town of Williams, Arizona. At one point, I was ready to don my ugly sweater and make some eggnog, just so I could keep the jubilant energy going.
It wasn't just fluff
As much as I love a good, fluffy rom-com, I also like it to have some depth. I got that from this book via Paige's struggle with anxiety. McDowell handled it so well, and it was great to see the multiple ways Paige dealt with her disorder. There was no anti-anything, as pharmaceutical and talk therapy, as well as relaxation strategies and cognitive behavioral therapies were discussed. It was also wonderful to see how supportive her family and friends were, which is such a vital thing for anyone with an illness.
It had a such a great ending
I honestly smiled from beginning to end as I read this book. It was a delight to watch destiny take its course as I grinned, laughed, and swooned. As amazing as the story was for me, it got EVEN BETTER. At about 90%, things started happening which left me extra giddy and filled with glee. Really, I couldn't think of any way to make it better.
Overall, this book was an utter joy to read. I cannot wait for everyone to take this journey with Paige as she explores her possibilities, learns new things about herself, and gets her happily ever after.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
December 26, 2025
класна була б книжка, якби не головна героїня, якій 17, а поводиться ну так по-дурному.. як її всі витримували, я не знаю(
August 7, 2020
* I was given an arc by the author and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The holiday romcom you’ve been waiting for! This was my first book by Kara, and it did not disappoint. It’s a slow burn romance with lots of flirting, kissing, and swoon worthy boys!
I absolutely love the main character, Paige. She’s completely relatable as a small town girl that has lots of trouble making decisions, and is terrified that she’ll make the wrong ones. She’s always thinking about the what-ifs. When she is presented with two different options for Christmas vacation, she finds herself completely paralyzed and unable to make a choice. Should she go with her best friend and long-time crush to his family’s mountain cabin? Or should she go with her mom to NYC, a place she’s always dreamed of going? A slip on a grocery store floor leads her down two different timelines. The first timeline takes her to NYC, where she falls for its charms and unexpectedly, for a boy she hasn’t seen in many years, and who becomes her tour guide. The second timeline takes her to the cozy mountain cabin, where she may finally have a chance with Fitz, her BFF. Her anxiety seems to be getting in the way of her plans, however. I enjoyed watching Paige’s journey through this story of self discovery. She needs to face her struggles with anxiety and learn that you don’t have to be “perfect” to find happiness. Definitely a character that I cheered for along the way. It’s interesting to see where her decisions lead her, and it’s a story brimming with hope and empowerment.
Hope you add this adorable book to your TBR! It will definitely bring some holiday cheer.
The holiday romcom you’ve been waiting for! This was my first book by Kara, and it did not disappoint. It’s a slow burn romance with lots of flirting, kissing, and swoon worthy boys!
I absolutely love the main character, Paige. She’s completely relatable as a small town girl that has lots of trouble making decisions, and is terrified that she’ll make the wrong ones. She’s always thinking about the what-ifs. When she is presented with two different options for Christmas vacation, she finds herself completely paralyzed and unable to make a choice. Should she go with her best friend and long-time crush to his family’s mountain cabin? Or should she go with her mom to NYC, a place she’s always dreamed of going? A slip on a grocery store floor leads her down two different timelines. The first timeline takes her to NYC, where she falls for its charms and unexpectedly, for a boy she hasn’t seen in many years, and who becomes her tour guide. The second timeline takes her to the cozy mountain cabin, where she may finally have a chance with Fitz, her BFF. Her anxiety seems to be getting in the way of her plans, however. I enjoyed watching Paige’s journey through this story of self discovery. She needs to face her struggles with anxiety and learn that you don’t have to be “perfect” to find happiness. Definitely a character that I cheered for along the way. It’s interesting to see where her decisions lead her, and it’s a story brimming with hope and empowerment.
Hope you add this adorable book to your TBR! It will definitely bring some holiday cheer.
December 16, 2019
I read an early version of this book, and months later I still cannot stop thinking about it. Kara McDowell is the best at writing flirtatious dialogue and slow-burn romance, which is only part of what makes this story so good. Paige is a compelling and relatable MC, and someone you want to root for on her journey of self-discovery, love, and possibility.
October 10, 2023
| 5 Stars| Ages 13+|YA/Contemporary|
My heart is so full it feels like it's gonna burst out of my chest. This book was everything I needed right now and more 🥹
Rtc🎄🎅🔔🎁
My heart is so full it feels like it's gonna burst out of my chest. This book was everything I needed right now and more 🥹
Rtc🎄🎅🔔🎁
September 15, 2021
Tohle bylo překvapivě dobrý!
Doporučuju, akorát pak budete hned mít chuť jet do New Yorku :D
4/5*
Doporučuju, akorát pak budete hned mít chuť jet do New Yorku :D
4/5*
September 30, 2020
First, WHAT A RIDE! Second, I am literally brimming over with happiness and hearts as we speak. It's possible I'm going to permanently have heart eyes after reading this book.
I was a little thrown off at first by the fact that the book switches between the two possible fates each every other chapter, but I quickly adjusted to it. For some reason, I expected one fate to play out and then the next, but I found that I liked the way it was actually written better. McDowell ended each chapter on a cliffhanger and made me wait for the chapter after the next to see how the scene played out. It was maddening and I loved it. It definitely kept me excited to see what happened with each fate.
The love triangle aspect of the book was also well done. There was one part in the book where I was a little conflicted as to who I liked better, but then the end solidified my choice.
As well, I loved being able to learn so much about so many different characters because of the two fates. For example, I never would have learned much about the main character, Paige's, mother if she would have gone only on the vacation in Arizona without her mom. Also, I never would have learned so much about Fitz and his family if Paige only would have gone to NYC. The two fates allowed for more information for the reader and more swoony moments.
It was also interesting for me to read this book because of the anxiety representation. I don't suffer from anxiety so it was nice for me to be able to get inside the head of Paige, who does have anxiety, so I could have a better understanding of what it's like to suffer from this. I have many friends who have varying degrees of anxiety, some severe, some mild, and I feel like this book gave me a small insight into what they may feel. I hope I can use what I learned from this book to be more supportive and patient with my friends.
The only negative I have is that I wish I could have received a little bit more closure with a certain character. I can see why things happened the way they did and I also see why things never could have worked out, but I hoped for more closure.
Overall, this is a book I'd highly recommend to anyone who enjoys holiday romances and needs a new, swoony man in their life.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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I was a little thrown off at first by the fact that the book switches between the two possible fates each every other chapter, but I quickly adjusted to it. For some reason, I expected one fate to play out and then the next, but I found that I liked the way it was actually written better. McDowell ended each chapter on a cliffhanger and made me wait for the chapter after the next to see how the scene played out. It was maddening and I loved it. It definitely kept me excited to see what happened with each fate.
The love triangle aspect of the book was also well done. There was one part in the book where I was a little conflicted as to who I liked better, but then the end solidified my choice.
As well, I loved being able to learn so much about so many different characters because of the two fates. For example, I never would have learned much about the main character, Paige's, mother if she would have gone only on the vacation in Arizona without her mom. Also, I never would have learned so much about Fitz and his family if Paige only would have gone to NYC. The two fates allowed for more information for the reader and more swoony moments.
It was also interesting for me to read this book because of the anxiety representation. I don't suffer from anxiety so it was nice for me to be able to get inside the head of Paige, who does have anxiety, so I could have a better understanding of what it's like to suffer from this. I have many friends who have varying degrees of anxiety, some severe, some mild, and I feel like this book gave me a small insight into what they may feel. I hope I can use what I learned from this book to be more supportive and patient with my friends.
The only negative I have is that I wish I could have received a little bit more closure with a certain character. I can see why things happened the way they did and I also see why things never could have worked out, but I hoped for more closure.
Overall, this is a book I'd highly recommend to anyone who enjoys holiday romances and needs a new, swoony man in their life.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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October 5, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
One Way or Another by Kara McDowell is a Christmas book about destiny and self-acceptance. I enjoyed the discussions of mental health, which is pretty rare in holiday reads, and Paige’s character transforms throughout the book. One of my favourite parts is how both of her Christmas vacation options are depicted. This is such a cute holiday read that fans of Hallmark movies will love.
This book tells the story of a girl who has difficulty making decisions and feels daunted by the two options she has for the holidays. When she slips and hits her head, she gets to see both of her fates–a trip to New York with her mother and a trip to the mountains with her best friend (who she is also in love with). This book has a great mix of fun and heavier topics, and it was interesting to see a holiday book that discusses mental health so prominently. While I did find a lot of the book pretty dramatic, I also thought this was such a cute read, and the ending is everything I could have hoped for.
❀ REALISTIC MAIN CHARACTER
Paige is a realistic main character who really transforms throughout the book. Decisions are difficult for her, and she deals with a lot of anxiety. However, she begins to accept herself and leave her comfort zone. I also really liked Fitz and how supportive he is of Paige. He is understanding and always there to help calm her down during panic attacks. I can’t comment on the representation of anxiety, but I felt like the author dealt with the topic very well.
❀ A COOL CONCEPT
The best part of the novel is its structure–it’s almost like reading two books in one. I loved the alternating fates and the opportunity to see what Paige might have missed in the other timeline. The reader also gains a deeper knowledge of both Paige’s mother and Fitz’s family because of the two locations. It was really interesting to see the same main events in both realities and how Paige’s different reactions in each timeline affected the plot. This is such a cool concept that I would love to see more of.
❀ ADORABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM
One Way or Another by Kara McDowell is an adorable novel with a good mix of light and heavy topics. The main character learns to accept herself, and the novel’s alternating fates are an inventive idea. This is a great book for those looking for a fresh take on holiday rom-coms.
One Way or Another by Kara McDowell is a Christmas book about destiny and self-acceptance. I enjoyed the discussions of mental health, which is pretty rare in holiday reads, and Paige’s character transforms throughout the book. One of my favourite parts is how both of her Christmas vacation options are depicted. This is such a cute holiday read that fans of Hallmark movies will love.
This book tells the story of a girl who has difficulty making decisions and feels daunted by the two options she has for the holidays. When she slips and hits her head, she gets to see both of her fates–a trip to New York with her mother and a trip to the mountains with her best friend (who she is also in love with). This book has a great mix of fun and heavier topics, and it was interesting to see a holiday book that discusses mental health so prominently. While I did find a lot of the book pretty dramatic, I also thought this was such a cute read, and the ending is everything I could have hoped for.
❀ REALISTIC MAIN CHARACTER
Paige is a realistic main character who really transforms throughout the book. Decisions are difficult for her, and she deals with a lot of anxiety. However, she begins to accept herself and leave her comfort zone. I also really liked Fitz and how supportive he is of Paige. He is understanding and always there to help calm her down during panic attacks. I can’t comment on the representation of anxiety, but I felt like the author dealt with the topic very well.
❀ A COOL CONCEPT
The best part of the novel is its structure–it’s almost like reading two books in one. I loved the alternating fates and the opportunity to see what Paige might have missed in the other timeline. The reader also gains a deeper knowledge of both Paige’s mother and Fitz’s family because of the two locations. It was really interesting to see the same main events in both realities and how Paige’s different reactions in each timeline affected the plot. This is such a cool concept that I would love to see more of.
❀ ADORABLE HOLIDAY ROM-COM
One Way or Another by Kara McDowell is an adorable novel with a good mix of light and heavy topics. The main character learns to accept herself, and the novel’s alternating fates are an inventive idea. This is a great book for those looking for a fresh take on holiday rom-coms.
November 20, 2020
This was disappointing because I was expecting an epic Sliding Doors-esque story (YA style) and got something annoying. Two scenarios play out. One kind of leads to personal growth while they both lead to the happy ever after Paige wants. It’s one thing to be crippled by indecision and anxiety and another thing to be judgmental about everyone else around you making decisions that you don’t agree with. The thing is, Paige very easily makes decisions and says things that cause damage to herself and others. What she really is is a pessimist. And that’s okay. Paige is also a coward which needs to be dealt with. I don't understand why she's in love with Fitz. He's known her forever and can help her cope with her anxiety but so can a therapist. He's big on romantic gestures that are EMPTY; he's only chasing a high.
January 16, 2022
Я не очікувала від цієї книги нічого. Адже, частіше за все, ромкоми такого типу, мене приваблюють, але розчаровують. Але все ж вирішила придбати цю новиночку, щоб провести з нею останні різдвяні дні.
⠀
Вже з першої сторінки я зрозуміла, що книга влучить прямо в серденько, але все ж трохи переживала за фінал. Адже тут саме від нього багато чого залежало. Але і він не підвів. Тому тепер сміливо можу сказати, що це найкращий різдвяний ромком, який я коли-небудь читала.
⠀
При тому книга підіймає такі важливі, для нашого часу, питання, як страх, нерішучість і панічні атаки. Особливо важливі ці теми, я вважаю, для підлітків, ( а це саме і є янгедалт). Адже саме у них найбільше всього попереду залежить від вибору, зробленого ними тут і зараз. Але важливо доступно пояснити, що не треба його аж надто боятися. Це, на мою думку, і робить ця книга.
⠀
Я пам'ятаю, що сама не раз відчувала страх, приймаючи важливі рішення, які можуть змінити життя. І запитання "А що як ?", і голос підсвідомості неодноразово змушували піддатися паніці.
⠀
Жаль, що тоді під рукою не було цієї книги.
⠀
Вона неймовірна не лише сюжетно, бо ж історія кохання, пригодницька частина і загалом весь сюжет прописані так, що не відірватися. Але є якась і терапевтична складова у цій книзі, яка може діяти не гірше любого нон-фікшину.
⠀
Тому, неодмінно раджу її всім, хто вагається і стоїть перед важливим життєвим вибором. Та неодмінно підліткам, які закінчують школу і попереду них не менш складний вибір та думки про майбутнє.
⠀
Вже з першої сторінки я зрозуміла, що книга влучить прямо в серденько, але все ж трохи переживала за фінал. Адже тут саме від нього багато чого залежало. Але і він не підвів. Тому тепер сміливо можу сказати, що це найкращий різдвяний ромком, який я коли-небудь читала.
⠀
При тому книга підіймає такі важливі, для нашого часу, питання, як страх, нерішучість і панічні атаки. Особливо важливі ці теми, я вважаю, для підлітків, ( а це саме і є янгедалт). Адже саме у них найбільше всього попереду залежить від вибору, зробленого ними тут і зараз. Але важливо доступно пояснити, що не треба його аж надто боятися. Це, на мою думку, і робить ця книга.
⠀
Я пам'ятаю, що сама не раз відчувала страх, приймаючи важливі рішення, які можуть змінити життя. І запитання "А що як ?", і голос підсвідомості неодноразово змушували піддатися паніці.
⠀
Жаль, що тоді під рукою не було цієї книги.
⠀
Вона неймовірна не лише сюжетно, бо ж історія кохання, пригодницька частина і загалом весь сюжет прописані так, що не відірватися. Але є якась і терапевтична складова у цій книзі, яка може діяти не гірше любого нон-фікшину.
⠀
Тому, неодмінно раджу її всім, хто вагається і стоїть перед важливим життєвим вибором. Та неодмінно підліткам, які закінчують школу і попереду них не менш складний вибір та думки про майбутнє.
December 1, 2020
Dit boek heeft een hele leuke opzet! Het verhaal begint met de introductie van Paige, ze is een typische puber, met liefdesproblemen. Ze is verliefd op haar beste vriend, maar dat weet hij niet. Of weet hij het stiekem wel? Maar dan gebeurt er iets vreemds en volg je de rest van het boek twee verschillende levens.
In het ene leven gaat Paige met haar moeder naar New York, dit is een droom die uitkomt voor haar. Ze gaan logeren bij een oude vriend van haar moeder. Die vriend heeft ook een zoon. Paige en hij hebben elkaar 10 jaar geleden al ontmoet, maar hebben elkaar daarna nooit meer gezien of gesproken. In het andere leven gaat Paige mee met haar beste vriend en zijn familie naar hun vakantiehuis in de bergen (vol met sneeuw).
Kara McDowell heeft echt een leuk concept neergezet. Aan het einde ga je twijfelen wat er nou wel gebeurd is en wat niet. In de epiloog blijkt wat er ongeveer is gebeurd. Paige vind ik echt een typisch young adult hoofdpersoon. Paige is 17 jaar, maar ik kreeg meer het idee door het verhaal dat ze een 15-jarige was. Op zich stoorde dat niet, maar het viel me wel op. De andere personages van 17/18 jaar gedroegen zich wel naar hun leeftijd.
Alle bijpersonages vond ik erg leuk en goed genoeg beschreven. De moeder van Paige, de vriend uit New York en zijn zoon, Fitz en al zijn diverse zussen. Een echte weerspiegeling van de maatschappij. Niemand is perfect en er was veel variatie.
Hoe dan ook vind ik een heerlijke winterse young adult. Het is een boek waar je niet te veel bij na hoeft te denken. Vandaag (1 december) mogen we met een select groepje videobellen met de auteur! We hebben allemaal een (of twee) vragen ingestuurd en die mogen we stellen. Ik ben heel benieuwd!
In het ene leven gaat Paige met haar moeder naar New York, dit is een droom die uitkomt voor haar. Ze gaan logeren bij een oude vriend van haar moeder. Die vriend heeft ook een zoon. Paige en hij hebben elkaar 10 jaar geleden al ontmoet, maar hebben elkaar daarna nooit meer gezien of gesproken. In het andere leven gaat Paige mee met haar beste vriend en zijn familie naar hun vakantiehuis in de bergen (vol met sneeuw).
Kara McDowell heeft echt een leuk concept neergezet. Aan het einde ga je twijfelen wat er nou wel gebeurd is en wat niet. In de epiloog blijkt wat er ongeveer is gebeurd. Paige vind ik echt een typisch young adult hoofdpersoon. Paige is 17 jaar, maar ik kreeg meer het idee door het verhaal dat ze een 15-jarige was. Op zich stoorde dat niet, maar het viel me wel op. De andere personages van 17/18 jaar gedroegen zich wel naar hun leeftijd.
Alle bijpersonages vond ik erg leuk en goed genoeg beschreven. De moeder van Paige, de vriend uit New York en zijn zoon, Fitz en al zijn diverse zussen. Een echte weerspiegeling van de maatschappij. Niemand is perfect en er was veel variatie.
Hoe dan ook vind ik een heerlijke winterse young adult. Het is een boek waar je niet te veel bij na hoeft te denken. Vandaag (1 december) mogen we met een select groepje videobellen met de auteur! We hebben allemaal een (of twee) vragen ingestuurd en die mogen we stellen. Ik ben heel benieuwd!
December 23, 2021
This was super cute! I have to admit that I wasn't sure how the two fates would end but I was pleasantly surprised. I thought the anxiety rep was done so well too.
August 7, 2020
One Way or Another was a fantastic, fun and meaningful book that will warm your heart while making you wish for your first sight of snow. I absolutely love winter and this book gave me all of those warm and fuzzy holiday feels.
This story follows Paige Collins, a high school teen who loves to bake and aspires to travel, as she tries to decide how she should spend her holidays. She’s conflicted between celebrating Christmas in New York City with her mom and a family friend she hasn’t seen since she was little, and meeting her best friend (and long-time crush), Fitz, at his family’s romantic cabin in the mountains a few hours from her small hometown in Arizona. Paige falls and hits her head and her world splits into two alternate realities where she’s able to live out each fate of both going to NYC and Fitz’s cabin.
I was initially really interested in this book based on the description of the Paige and I felt that I would really be able to connect with her. Her struggles with decision-making, always pondering the what-ifs of life and letting fear get in the way of doing things she wants to do are all things I could identify with. Beyond Paige’s anxiety, I was also able to relate other things like her wanderlust and her love for The Great British Baking Show -a show that is absolutely binge-worthy. I saw a lot of myself in Paige and it was really comforting to have her character reflect so much of myself.
As someone who experiences anxiety, I felt that the anxiety representation was done very well. Paige’s character arc and acceptance of her condition was really nice to see and the book provided examples of coping mechanisms as well as demonstrating what a healthy support system looks like for someone with anxiety. I especially like how this connected to the romance and Paige’s fear that no one can love her the way she is. This is something I think so many people can connect to and One Way or Another showed that the right person is out there to accept us for who we are and help us whenever we need it. Paige has become one of my favorite and most relatable characters I’ve ever read about.
The side characters in the book were also super enjoyable. Paige and Fitz’s friendship was so sweet. They were honestly so cute and Fitz was really supportive and understanding. They know each other better than anyone and truly believe in the big dreams they each have. Even if they may not have seen it at first, Paige and Fitz were always trying to do what was best for the other and prioritized each other over everyone else.
Paige spent most of her time in New York with Harrison, the son of her mom’s old friend. He was a bit rough around the edges at first but the reader soon finds out that he was really misunderstood just at the beginning and the moments of him and Paige getting to know each other were pretty adorable. He and Paige help each other to understand parts of themselves that they may have never realized if they had never met and gone through their shared experiences.
The format was perfect for the plot. One Way or Another is told from entirely from Paige’s perspective, but in alternating chapters between each fate as it follows her storylines in both New York and Arizona. This format made for such a quick and enjoyable read. A lot of the chapters ended in mini cliffhangers which made it really hard to put this book down. I also really appreciated the parallels between the two fates. They loosely follow the same pattern and trajectory, which led to one of my biggest takeaways from this book.
From Paige’s story, I learned that the big decisions of life don’t have to be all that scary. It’s possible that making two different decisions can have the same results that were originally hoped for. In two parallel universes, Paige made the decision to spend the holidays across the country and also celebrate just a few hours from home. Thousands of miles apart, there was still the chance to see snow for the first time, learn important life lessons, and get the guy in both scenarios.
I loved this book as much as Fitz loves romcoms and Harrison loves quoting philosophers. Speaking of romcoms, this would make a really great movie (I’m looking at you, Netflix).
This story follows Paige Collins, a high school teen who loves to bake and aspires to travel, as she tries to decide how she should spend her holidays. She’s conflicted between celebrating Christmas in New York City with her mom and a family friend she hasn’t seen since she was little, and meeting her best friend (and long-time crush), Fitz, at his family’s romantic cabin in the mountains a few hours from her small hometown in Arizona. Paige falls and hits her head and her world splits into two alternate realities where she’s able to live out each fate of both going to NYC and Fitz’s cabin.
I was initially really interested in this book based on the description of the Paige and I felt that I would really be able to connect with her. Her struggles with decision-making, always pondering the what-ifs of life and letting fear get in the way of doing things she wants to do are all things I could identify with. Beyond Paige’s anxiety, I was also able to relate other things like her wanderlust and her love for The Great British Baking Show -a show that is absolutely binge-worthy. I saw a lot of myself in Paige and it was really comforting to have her character reflect so much of myself.
As someone who experiences anxiety, I felt that the anxiety representation was done very well. Paige’s character arc and acceptance of her condition was really nice to see and the book provided examples of coping mechanisms as well as demonstrating what a healthy support system looks like for someone with anxiety. I especially like how this connected to the romance and Paige’s fear that no one can love her the way she is. This is something I think so many people can connect to and One Way or Another showed that the right person is out there to accept us for who we are and help us whenever we need it. Paige has become one of my favorite and most relatable characters I’ve ever read about.
The side characters in the book were also super enjoyable. Paige and Fitz’s friendship was so sweet. They were honestly so cute and Fitz was really supportive and understanding. They know each other better than anyone and truly believe in the big dreams they each have. Even if they may not have seen it at first, Paige and Fitz were always trying to do what was best for the other and prioritized each other over everyone else.
Paige spent most of her time in New York with Harrison, the son of her mom’s old friend. He was a bit rough around the edges at first but the reader soon finds out that he was really misunderstood just at the beginning and the moments of him and Paige getting to know each other were pretty adorable. He and Paige help each other to understand parts of themselves that they may have never realized if they had never met and gone through their shared experiences.
The format was perfect for the plot. One Way or Another is told from entirely from Paige’s perspective, but in alternating chapters between each fate as it follows her storylines in both New York and Arizona. This format made for such a quick and enjoyable read. A lot of the chapters ended in mini cliffhangers which made it really hard to put this book down. I also really appreciated the parallels between the two fates. They loosely follow the same pattern and trajectory, which led to one of my biggest takeaways from this book.
From Paige’s story, I learned that the big decisions of life don’t have to be all that scary. It’s possible that making two different decisions can have the same results that were originally hoped for. In two parallel universes, Paige made the decision to spend the holidays across the country and also celebrate just a few hours from home. Thousands of miles apart, there was still the chance to see snow for the first time, learn important life lessons, and get the guy in both scenarios.
I loved this book as much as Fitz loves romcoms and Harrison loves quoting philosophers. Speaking of romcoms, this would make a really great movie (I’m looking at you, Netflix).
December 11, 2020
Recensie online op www.leesendroom.jouwweb.nl/hoe-dan-ook
September 29, 2020
This review was originally posted on Andi's ABCs
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. There is on if, ands, or buts about it, I am a parallel life book junkie. Tell me your book has a parallel life aspect to it and I am so there for it. Also if it is an author I’m already a fan of…double there for it. So when I found out Kara McDowell’s sophomore book, One Way or Another, was a parallel life book, I needed it and I needed it ASAP. Oh and let me tell you it was so worth the wait. It hit my parallel life love right and the feels and never let go.
One Way or Another is about Paige, a girl that is terrified of making the wrong decision, of missing out on something and putting her life on the wrong path. She becomes bogged down/anxious with all of the what ifs that she can’t even bring herself to make the choice. So when she has the option to send Christmas in New York with her mom, a dream she has always had or to go to the cabin her best friend (and long time secret crush) Fitz, she is paralyzed with fear of making the wrong choice. And then fate steps in and Paige finds out which choice is actual the one worth making while also allowing Paige to deal with her long time anxiety.
I’m going to get out of the way right now what I didn’t like about One Way or Another. There really was one thing that truly bugged me about this book and I just can’t let it go. I NEEDED MORE WORDS! Seriously I loved the story so much that I was heartbroken there were no more words when the end came. It was everything my parallel life book loving heart wanted. The way McDowell wrote the twi decisions and how each changed Paige in a different way. How no matter what Paige decided some things were just meant to happen anyway. How Paige grew and changed and saw how her anxiety about making decisions was holding her back. It was all so perfect and I just wanted more, more, more. There honestly wasn’t one thing that I didn’t like about this book (although some of those chapter endings were doozies!!!). It was perfection in a book.
I really can’t say enough amazing things about One Way or Another. Books I hype up in my mind can sometimes let me down, but that was not the case with One Way. It hit all my expectations and beyond. McDowell gave me exactly what I wanted out of a sophomore novel from her and has me looking forward to what else she will bring to my book loving life. Even if you aren’t a parallel life book junkie, get this one on your TBR. It is worth the read even if you will be sad there are no more words at the end.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. There is on if, ands, or buts about it, I am a parallel life book junkie. Tell me your book has a parallel life aspect to it and I am so there for it. Also if it is an author I’m already a fan of…double there for it. So when I found out Kara McDowell’s sophomore book, One Way or Another, was a parallel life book, I needed it and I needed it ASAP. Oh and let me tell you it was so worth the wait. It hit my parallel life love right and the feels and never let go.
One Way or Another is about Paige, a girl that is terrified of making the wrong decision, of missing out on something and putting her life on the wrong path. She becomes bogged down/anxious with all of the what ifs that she can’t even bring herself to make the choice. So when she has the option to send Christmas in New York with her mom, a dream she has always had or to go to the cabin her best friend (and long time secret crush) Fitz, she is paralyzed with fear of making the wrong choice. And then fate steps in and Paige finds out which choice is actual the one worth making while also allowing Paige to deal with her long time anxiety.
I’m going to get out of the way right now what I didn’t like about One Way or Another. There really was one thing that truly bugged me about this book and I just can’t let it go. I NEEDED MORE WORDS! Seriously I loved the story so much that I was heartbroken there were no more words when the end came. It was everything my parallel life book loving heart wanted. The way McDowell wrote the twi decisions and how each changed Paige in a different way. How no matter what Paige decided some things were just meant to happen anyway. How Paige grew and changed and saw how her anxiety about making decisions was holding her back. It was all so perfect and I just wanted more, more, more. There honestly wasn’t one thing that I didn’t like about this book (although some of those chapter endings were doozies!!!). It was perfection in a book.
I really can’t say enough amazing things about One Way or Another. Books I hype up in my mind can sometimes let me down, but that was not the case with One Way. It hit all my expectations and beyond. McDowell gave me exactly what I wanted out of a sophomore novel from her and has me looking forward to what else she will bring to my book loving life. Even if you aren’t a parallel life book junkie, get this one on your TBR. It is worth the read even if you will be sad there are no more words at the end.
December 18, 2022
dnf
sorry, this was a no for me. why? Fitz. i have never read a book and doubt i will again with such a bratty love-interest. he had an extremely long (we're talking over 20) dating history, and it was branded as being a hopeless romantic, not as an issue therapy might be needed for. he also used Paige as someone to fall back on whenever his girlfriend would break up with him, and she thought that was a good relationship?? girl, go find yourself a better guy, because this one is not it.
do i know how this ends? no. unfortunately, I don't care, nor do i recommend.
sorry, this was a no for me. why? Fitz. i have never read a book and doubt i will again with such a bratty love-interest. he had an extremely long (we're talking over 20) dating history, and it was branded as being a hopeless romantic, not as an issue therapy might be needed for. he also used Paige as someone to fall back on whenever his girlfriend would break up with him, and she thought that was a good relationship?? girl, go find yourself a better guy, because this one is not it.
do i know how this ends? no. unfortunately, I don't care, nor do i recommend.
October 10, 2019
I read an early version of this delightful, Christmas rom com and you NEED to read it, too. It’s one part family dynamics, two parts female empowerment, and like fourteen parts wit and swoon.
November 20, 2020
4.5 stars
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um, this sounds cute as fuck
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um, this sounds cute as fuck
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