If Only I Could Tell You

By: Hannah Beckerman

4/5 Blue Hummingbirds

After being diagnosed with cancer and given only months to live, Audrey has one dying wish: for her two estranged daughters to reconcile. It has been nearly three decades since Lily and Jess last spoke. Jess, harboring anger for what she saw all those years ago, has never revealed to Audrey or Lily why she is filled with so much rage and hate. Lily, a confused older sister, is willing to do anything to rectify whatever Jess believes has happened. A journey told through the eyes of Audrey, Jess, and Lily, If Only I Could Tell You invokes such raw and real emotion.

Beckerman's writing style is one of the most beautiful styles I've ever had the pleasure of reading. I absolutely adored the differing perspectives each chapter, along with the switch between past and present. This book was a breeze to read because the words flowed so organically. Not to mention, there are slight plot twists scattered along the way.

I will be honest, Beckerman's writing style saved the book as a whole. I found Jess to be incredibly unlikable, and if the book had been poorly written, I would have had difficulty finishing it. However, I don't think Jess will be unlikable to all readers -- I think the reception of her character will be based on life experiences. To me, Lily and Audrey were much more likable and I found myself rooting for them, crying for them, and laughing with them each step of the way.

If I Could Only Tell You made me think about life in a deeper way than most books do. After reading it, I do not want to leave words unheard, thoughts unsaid, or places unvisited.

Suggested Pairing: My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult