How Does 'In The Likely Event' End And Is There A Sequel?

I just finished 'In the Likely Event' and the ending hit me hard. Nate and Izzy finally reconcile after years of misunderstandings and near-misses. Their last scene together at the airport is bittersweet—Nate leaves for another deployment, but this time they promise to stay connected. The epilogue jumps five years ahead, showing them married and raising a family, with Nate out of the military. It’s a satisfying wrap-up that rewards readers who rooted for them. As for a sequel, nothing’s confirmed, but the author left subtle threads—like Izzy’s journalism career taking off—that could fuel a follow-up. I’d love to see their dynamic as parents navigating civilian life.

The finale of 'in the likely event' masterfully ties together its themes of timing and resilience. After surviving a plane crash and multiple deployments, Nate and Izzy’s relationship evolves from chaotic flirtation to mature love. The pivotal moment comes when Izzy chooses to delay her dream job abroad to support Nate during his PTSD recovery. Their quiet reunion in Chapter 23—where they rebuild trust by sharing childhood stories over burnt pancakes—feels more earned than any dramatic confession.

What makes the ending stand out is its realism. Instead of a fairytale resolution, we see them struggling with mundane but meaningful challenges. Nate learns to communicate beyond military brevity, while Izzy confronts her fear of abandonment. The five-year gap in the epilogue cleverly avoids spoon-feeding their growth, showing them as changed people through small details like Nate’s civilian wardrobe or Izzy’s relaxed posture.

Regarding sequels, the author’s recent interviews hint at expanding this universe. A spin-off about side character Malik (Nate’s Army buddy) is rumored, exploring veteran reintegration. The book’s exploration of military-family dynamics has room for more stories, perhaps focusing on Izzy’s sister Luna, whose law career was briefly mentioned. Fans hungry for similar tension should try 'The Parting Gift', another enemies-to-lovers story with geopolitical stakes.

Ending talk? Buckle up. 'in the likely event' closes with Nate and Izzy breaking their cycle of almost-relationships. The last act has them confronting their worst traits—Nate’s emotional withdrawal, Izzy’s stubborn independence—during a blizzard-stranded weekend at his grandfather’s cabin. Their make-or-break moment isn’t some grand gesture; it’s Nate quietly replacing Izzy’s lost luggage with items remembering every inside joke they’ve shared. The epilogue’s genius is showing their kid inheriting Nate’s smirk and Izzy’s curiosity, proving love outlasts trauma.

Sequel potential thrives in unexplored subplots. The book drops tantalizing hints about Izzy’s mentor Evelyn being ex-military intelligence—ripe for a prequel. Nate’s unfinished business with his estranged dad could drive a continuation. While awaiting news, dive into 'You’ve Reached Sam' for another emotionally charged journey. The author’s knack for imperfect happy endings suggests any follow-up would avoid clichés, maybe focusing on Izzy’s post-war reporting in conflict zones.