Never Say Goodbye

by Irene Hannon

Jess and Scott Mitchell were a perfect couple whose lives were full of faith and love. But tragedy struck, tearing them apart and causing both to doubt their beliefs. Now, five years later, they are seeking reconciliation -- with God and each other.

Genres: Romance, Love Inspired, Contemporary, Christian, Christian Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction

256 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published June 1, 2002

About the author

Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's easy to see why this book received the prestigious RITA award. The combination of an unusual premise (hero just released from prison) and a heroine struggling with her faith and the need for forgiveness makes it a deeply emotional read. Highly recommended!

[Tracey Cramer-Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love forgiveness and redemption themes and this book had that in spades. I found myself blinking away emotion on more than one occasion. The journey through grief was beautifully written, including the hints of the passion they had shared as a married couple, though I felt that both characters were a little too controlled with their emotions; even embracing a personal relationship with God doesn’t stop us from experiencing (and showing) anger or extreme frustration. The only minor issue I had was that I felt it wrapped up a little too quickly, without showing any of the crucial scene from Scott’s POV.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Encore Book thus far

Although I have enjoyed every book Irene Hannon has wrirren, this one is my favorite ( and just one left to read.) I especially liked the development of Scott and Jess's story . Through the story you see a true turning back to God and how much hatred and bitterness can destroy lives, but repentance and trust can renew relationships in a miraculous way. Highly recommend.

[Ian Mcnamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read by this author so far and this one was no different. She writes good romantic suspense and normal romance. Their always easy and clean reads which I also like.

This story was fantastic, Jes and Scott were both likable characters and I really liked the journey they went on both separately and together. One of the things I also love about these books are the faith within them.

Scott’s character shown that bad experiences can change you for the better and I really loved how he used his situation to make changes in his priorities. Jess also went on a tough journey of healing as well.

This was a very easy five stars to give and a wonderful story of hope and heeling, the author writes this stuff really well. I’m looking forwad to more books by this author later in the year as she’s easily one of my favourites.

[Gerri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good story that covered a difficult topic. My heart went out to both Jess and Scott and all they’ve been dealing with. Although we know it is best to forgive it is not always easy.

I did not like how Jess’s parents treated her regarding Scott. As a parent, you may not agree with your adult children’s decisions but you support them or keep your mouth shut. For Jess’s father to have such hate for Scott and let it be known was horrible. I guess this man never made any mistakes in his life.

This was a good story about redemption and forgiveness.

[Debra Pease · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story of forgiveness

This book actually helped heal me in some ways with Scripture quotes and the story. I read once hurt people, hurt people. There are a lot of damaged people in our world and circle of life. Pride which God hates keeps us from healing and being the best we can become. A lack of forgiveness really only hurts us. We also need to remember to forgive ourselves.
Thank you for this story, its been a blessing.

[Ophelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving and hard hitting.

This book is all about forgiveness and it's pain. The story unfolds slowly but it lays out all the nuances of the pain and struggle to forgive a terrible hurt where love still exists. Faith and perseverance are demonstrated. You can feel the tangible emotions wrought by a terrible and often considered in forgivable offence. Despair, hope, Faith and love, is at the heart of this short book.

[Brenda Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

AFTER TRAGEDY & LOSS: A SECOND CHANCE AT LOVE

Jess blames her husband for the devastating loss and heartache that they both suffered. She has refused divorce and also refuses to have any contact with him. Four years later they meet again. Jess discovers that Scott is still in love with her and is hoping for - and praying for - reconciliation.

Irene Hannon writes stories that are not very long but packed with deep emotions, God's grace and sobering challenges.

[Janet Grunst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Irene Hannon gem

Irene Hannon has again with a tale that captures the reader’s heart and imagination. Life’s challenges and, at times, tragedies are addressed honestly and with compassion. The characters maturing faith and the power of forgiveness make what seems unlikely entirely possible .

[Karol L. Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional read of forgiveness and hope

I was surprised at how well the story progressed, helping the reader’s attitude change as well as the story characters. Working through the “no-maybe-yes” of forgiveness was handled extremely well. The story had several social attitude issues addressed which were handled nicely.

[Sue Batt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second chances are our answers from God

A difficult story to read because it could happen to just about anyone! The book was a beautiful testimony of Hope and love to a couple that were devastated by a tragic mistake and loss!! The book was definitely worth reading!!

[Dar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another well written book.by Irene Hannon. Sometimes forgiveness is very hard because of the hurt. This book was written with a Christian view of forgiveness.snd redemption. I enjoyed reading this story.

[Paula K. Godfrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness and redemption

This was such a great read. The choices we make in life are so important, and in this story someone made the wrong choice that led to lost lives. Thankfully, with God’s help healing and forgiveness came, and a marriage was restored.

[Paula White · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first book by this author and I bought it at a yard sale. I enjoyed the story.

[Zenobia N Jefferson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Takes Some Processing

There's a lot at work here. No one can dismiss what drove them apart, and no one can ignore what brought them together again.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent story of repentance, forgiveness, hope, and renewed love. I really enjoyed it.

[Jess H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast great read on forgiveness and moving forward in life.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Wholesome Book

This is one of the best books I’ve read in a good while. Hard to put down! It has a message.

[Sharon Rudolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This was such a sweet book to read. It shows God's love and forgiveness. The characters were so believable and the storyline was wonderful!

[J.M. Kirkley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a second-chance story about the power of a life redeemed and impact of lingering, devastating consequences. Well written and inspirational. I can see why it won multiple awards.

[Betty Crumbley]

Great book

[Letha · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story of love and forgiveness!

[Sharon Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Book

A beautiful story of forgiveness and love. I couldn’t put the book down even though I cried through most of it. God is good and His mercies endure forever.

[Allison R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chances

Filled with truth of God's working in an estranged couple. Characterizations believable as well as the settings. An uplifting read.

[Eunice Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyrd this book that spoke of forgiveness and reconcilliation

[Major Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and heart-rending

What a great story! It has it all ... pain, loss, betrayal, separation, and the agonising journey to forgiveness.
Riveting. I loved it.

[Sharon Wheeler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Libby. Listened to this book. Second chance for shattered marriage and life. Forgiveness and Love.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Mitchell has just been released from prison a changed man: no longer ambitious and shallow, he has found God but lost his family. His estranged wife (the book states that she doesn’t believe in divorce, which would logically lead one to conclude that they’re separated but not legally divorced), Jess, is stricken with grief over the death of their beloved daughter Elizabeth, a tragedy that occurred because of Scott.

The book, like the others in its line, delves into the scriptures and the author delivers a good lesson in what it really means to forgive and forget. The supporting characters (which consist mainly of the protagonists’ families) are realistically drawn, particularly Jess’ father, and while the situations that Scott and Jess are forced into by the plot are sometimes contrived, the book is nicely paced and a decent read.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prison has its ways of changing people for better or worse and Scott Mitchell has definitely changed for the better. After serving three years for a DUI manslaughter conviction (one victim was Scott's own daughter), Scott has turned his life over to God and is determined to create a better life for himself. A kindly minister helps Scott get a start as a landscaper, but what Scott really wants is to re-unite with his wife Jess - who told him when he entered prison that she would never forgive him and never wanted to see him again. Jess' parents detest Scott as well. Will Scott ever be able to overcome that one horrible night in his past?

A tear-jerker at first, but provides the happy ending I was hoping for!

[Sheri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did like this book. Scott has just been released from prison after serving 3 years for manslaughter (under the influence). He killed his own 4 year old daughter and the other driver. He found God in prison and is a changed man. His wife lost God after the accident and won't speak to him. He still loves Jess and wants to make a new life with her. Jess is very conflicted and confused. Scott is strong, kind, compassionate and hopeful. I really related to Scott and Jess, pulled for them, and kept wondering what they'd gone through to get where they were.