This Is How It Happened - Softcover

"The ensuing tale of grief and forgiveness is smartly paced. Stokes doesn't lean too hard on the mystery element, revealing the cold truth early enough to follow through with all the baggage that comes with it. Gen's relationship with her father and stepmother is sweetly characterized, providing solid thematic reinforcement to boot. A Greek chorus in the form of the internet provides Gen and readers with updates on the chaos ensuing back home, while a hot, brown-skinned co-worker gives Gen a reason to work her way through her grief. A sobering exploration of absolution." - Kirkus Reviews

"Stokes explores the power of social media and online shaming...The book effectively demonstrates the effects of cyberbullying." -School Library Journal
"The supporting cast of characters is strong, from Genevieve's no-nonsense mother to Elliott, the boy with two dads, who works at Zion National Park. Stokes builds realistic tension with the bombardment of social media, that faceless jury so quick to judge, sentence, and execute. This tragedy wrapped in a compelling mystery will entrance readers."- ALA Booklist
"Stokes has written a powerful and thought provoking book that dares to take on two tough topics. I loved that this book made me think and ponder things. This is an excellent book that will start a conversation." - Rainy Day Ramblings

Praise for Girl Against the Universe"Stokes' engaging prose and sympathetic characters serve up great lessons in acceptance for teens dealing with trauma." - Kirkus Reviews

"Teens will find in Maguire a compelling heroine. Her obsessive behaviors are depicted in convincing detail. Maguire's forays into wellness are anything but pat, giving her story additional credibility. Teens who enjoy emotionally charged stories will appreciate this novel about resilience." - School Library Journal

"Romance fans will enjoy the slow, sweet, and tentative burn between the teens. Recommend to readers who enjoy Jenny Han or Maureen Johnson." - ALA Booklist

"An engaging story. Its true appeal lies with Stokes's well-developed characters and in the way Maguire and Jordy support each other's efforts to conquer the challenges they face." - Publishers Weekly

"Maguire is a brave, relatable character...There are friendships formed, family relationships tested and restored, and issues of identity explored. This is a satisfying and breezy book with likeable characters working through trauma to move to better, healthier places in their lives." - Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)