"There are very few, if any, fictionalized accounts related to the sport of rowing in Canada, and When You Least Expect It does an outstanding job of filling this niche, conveying the overwhelming physical demands and tenacity that are hallmarks of the art of rowing. An examination of the book cover spots adds further credibility with a recommendation written by Al Morrow, acclaimed and now retired Canadian Olympic Team Rowing Coach. This story is a compelling, page-turning read and was selected as a finalist for Alberta's 2022 R. Ross Annett Award for Children's Literature." -- CM Magazine "Lorna Schultz Nicholson's work is an inspiring reflection of the journey of a young athlete pursuing their dreams.This riveting story focuses on finding the balance between work and family -- and between passion and obsession. It brings insight into the importance of family and surrounding yourself with people who push you forward. Anyone who has chased their dreams despite the setback, been forced to adapt to new circumstances, or just wants to know they'll be supported by the people they care about will find inspiration in these pages.
Written for a young adult audience, this story tells its reader to live life without regrets, strive for your dreams, and not forget to live along the way." -- Canadian Children's Book News "Nicholson's novel flows, capturing the highs and lows of Holly's summer experiences. In Holly, Nicholson creates a strong, determined, and sympathetic main character, who has a lot of growing, rowing, and living left to do." -- youngadulting.ca Blog "If you're looking for a book for either yourself or your teen, look no further. This book is one dealing with shattered dreams, tragedy, and hope all wrapped into one. I love reading young adult (YA) fiction and this one ranks high on my list of great reads. This book has depth beyond the main character and in turn, offers a realistic portrayal of a seventeen-year-old girl who finds herself in situations that she wasn't able to anticipate, let alone navigate.
Schultz-Nicoloson weaves chapters of lyrical prose throughout the book that offer a glimpse into the mystery and tragedy that continue to cast shadows. Well done. Loved it. The characters are real and relatable. Sometimes cranky, cheeky, or disrespectful, but real, raw, and age appropriate. Great read. Highly recommend. Brava Lorna Schultz-Nicolson.
" -- Faye E. Arcand Book Blogger.