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Wishing You Were Here
Finalist for the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart® Award in Young Adult Romance.
She's out of place. He's out of time.
When an accidental wish sends a college bound radio intern back in time to 1957 to save a teen idol from death, she finds her well-intentioned meddling just may leave him better off dead. Callie Reinard thought rock music pioneer Joey Tempo deserved a chance to show the world he was more than a footnote in music history, but her attempt to give him a new future causes one catastrophe after another. The worst disaster of all -- she's falling for this charismatic musician, who's fifty years out of her league, and at risk of losing her own carefully-planned future in the process.
WISHING YOU WERE HERE is a sweet young adult rock 'n' roll time travel romance, appropriate for ages 12 and up.
~*~
From the Back
She's out of place. He's out of time.
In 1956, clever spin doctoring and a string of pre-fab hits turn Joseph Temporelli into Joey Tempo, the biggest sensation to hit the Memphis music scene since Elvis Presley. Within twelve months he's gone-killed in a transatlantic plane crash. 55 years later, Callie Reinard diligently plans for college and a career in radio. When she discovers Joey Tempo's iconic first album, her desire to change his fate opens a doorway through time to 1957. She stops Joey from boarding the plane that will take his life, but then finds herself trapped in the 1950s, where equal rights are as foreign a concept as missions to the moon. The future she so tirelessly worked toward now seems out of reach, and her liberated attitude jeopardizes the second chance she envisioned for Joey and his music career. Worst of all, if Callie can't find a way back to her own time soon, she may lose more than a college education and the career she's always wanted. She may lose her heart to a boy she can't have.
She's out of place. He's out of time.
When an accidental wish sends a college bound radio intern back in time to 1957 to save a teen idol from death, she finds her well-intentioned meddling just may leave him better off dead. Callie Reinard thought rock music pioneer Joey Tempo deserved a chance to show the world he was more than a footnote in music history, but her attempt to give him a new future causes one catastrophe after another. The worst disaster of all -- she's falling for this charismatic musician, who's fifty years out of her league, and at risk of losing her own carefully-planned future in the process.
WISHING YOU WERE HERE is a sweet young adult rock 'n' roll time travel romance, appropriate for ages 12 and up.
~*~
From the Back
She's out of place. He's out of time.
In 1956, clever spin doctoring and a string of pre-fab hits turn Joseph Temporelli into Joey Tempo, the biggest sensation to hit the Memphis music scene since Elvis Presley. Within twelve months he's gone-killed in a transatlantic plane crash. 55 years later, Callie Reinard diligently plans for college and a career in radio. When she discovers Joey Tempo's iconic first album, her desire to change his fate opens a doorway through time to 1957. She stops Joey from boarding the plane that will take his life, but then finds herself trapped in the 1950s, where equal rights are as foreign a concept as missions to the moon. The future she so tirelessly worked toward now seems out of reach, and her liberated attitude jeopardizes the second chance she envisioned for Joey and his music career. Worst of all, if Callie can't find a way back to her own time soon, she may lose more than a college education and the career she's always wanted. She may lose her heart to a boy she can't have.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2012
9 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Chant
8 books41 followersCatherine Chant is an RWA Golden Heart® finalist. Her young adult time travel series is available at Amazon.com and other online retailers. She has also written a non-fiction creative writing book on plotting a novel and a second book in that series will be released in 2021.
When she's not writing, Catherine can be found knitting or crocheting, playing The Sims or other video games, drawing or painting, or gardening. She also enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and watching movies.
You can find out more about Catherine at her website CatherineChant.com.
When she's not writing, Catherine can be found knitting or crocheting, playing The Sims or other video games, drawing or painting, or gardening. She also enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and watching movies.
You can find out more about Catherine at her website CatherineChant.com.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 11, 2013
3.5 timeless stars!
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, I wasn’t too keen on the time travel bit at first. So, it took me quite some time to actually get started on the book. However, once I started it, I could NOT stop reading! I actually finished this book in one-setting. It was that entertaining!
The thing is, the description doesn’t really reveal much, and it didn’t necessarily motivate me to start reading the book right away. But, once I got over my preconceived notions, and my own theories about time-travel, and the (yucky) age issues, I was pleasantly surprised; the story was definitely NOT what I was expecting! I didn’t expect the little twist near the end, and I was really thankful for the HEA.
In terms of the characters, Callie, the heroine, was very likeable. I won’t say I loved her, or her fascination with the past (why would a woman ever want to go back? There were no women’s rights, the civil rights movements hadn’t happened yet, the Vietnam War would ruin many lives, with the Cold War soon to follow, etc.). It was all around a tumultuous time in American history. I just personally wouldn’t have wanted to go back. Sure, things were cheap and perhaps the men had some sort of manners, but ultimately, it was a patriarchal, male-dominated world, where women had little to no freedoms. That is definitely not my style. Yet, her determination, passion, strong-will, and love was endearing.
As for the whole time-travel aspect, I don’t want to give anything away, but I can say with certainty, it was very well-written, and it all clicked. Although, it completely came as a surprise (there were like, absolutely no clues prior to the big reveal). But it worked. And it felt completely unique and original, although some scenes did remind me of, Back to the Future, and Pleasantville.
Additionally, there was a heavy focus/emphasis on 50s culture and the music industry, which added another layer of unique, to the already funky time-travel plot.
Finally, when it came to the romantic connection, it did feel a bit rushed in the beginning. However, it seemed plausible, within the given context of time-travel, and so forth. And, ultimately, I ended up really enjoying the sweet romance between Callie and Joey. It would’ve been cool if the story was written in DUAL POV, but then maybe the “twist” wouldn’t have been so shocking.
Anyway, do not expect any angst, brooding, or anything deep, and dark; because, the story leans heavily on the sweet (and cheesy) side. Still, it was an overall, feel-good, light, fluffy, cute read!
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, I wasn’t too keen on the time travel bit at first. So, it took me quite some time to actually get started on the book. However, once I started it, I could NOT stop reading! I actually finished this book in one-setting. It was that entertaining!
The thing is, the description doesn’t really reveal much, and it didn’t necessarily motivate me to start reading the book right away. But, once I got over my preconceived notions, and my own theories about time-travel, and the (yucky) age issues, I was pleasantly surprised; the story was definitely NOT what I was expecting! I didn’t expect the little twist near the end, and I was really thankful for the HEA.
In terms of the characters, Callie, the heroine, was very likeable. I won’t say I loved her, or her fascination with the past (why would a woman ever want to go back? There were no women’s rights, the civil rights movements hadn’t happened yet, the Vietnam War would ruin many lives, with the Cold War soon to follow, etc.). It was all around a tumultuous time in American history. I just personally wouldn’t have wanted to go back. Sure, things were cheap and perhaps the men had some sort of manners, but ultimately, it was a patriarchal, male-dominated world, where women had little to no freedoms. That is definitely not my style. Yet, her determination, passion, strong-will, and love was endearing.
As for the whole time-travel aspect, I don’t want to give anything away, but I can say with certainty, it was very well-written, and it all clicked. Although, it completely came as a surprise (there were like, absolutely no clues prior to the big reveal). But it worked. And it felt completely unique and original, although some scenes did remind me of, Back to the Future, and Pleasantville.
Additionally, there was a heavy focus/emphasis on 50s culture and the music industry, which added another layer of unique, to the already funky time-travel plot.
Finally, when it came to the romantic connection, it did feel a bit rushed in the beginning. However, it seemed plausible, within the given context of time-travel, and so forth. And, ultimately, I ended up really enjoying the sweet romance between Callie and Joey. It would’ve been cool if the story was written in DUAL POV, but then maybe the “twist” wouldn’t have been so shocking.
Anyway, do not expect any angst, brooding, or anything deep, and dark; because, the story leans heavily on the sweet (and cheesy) side. Still, it was an overall, feel-good, light, fluffy, cute read!
June 26, 2017
I recieved this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a delight to read, and drew me in from the beginning, even though a few times I was wondering were the plot was headed. This story starts off in 1956, by introducing us to Joey Tempo. He was the newest singing sensation to hit Memphis, but within twelve months of being discovered, was killed in a plane crash back to the United States from London.
Now, fifty years later in the present, we have Callie. While looking in her grandmother's attic for 50's memorabilia for a theme party, she discovers Joey's first album, and she finds herself being drawn into his tragic story, and wanting to change his fate. While listening to his record she is transported back to 1957 where she thinks she is there to save him from the plane crash, especially since she ends up in the airport bathroom when she arrives.
But after talking Joey out of taking that fatal flight, Callie still cannot find her way back home. She is now sucked into being involved in Joey's life and career. And what she finds is things are not turning out the way she planned and everthing is in chaos. Now the question that remains is: can she find her way back home without altering too much of the future? And can she fix what she has done?
I really enjoyed this story. Callie and Joey were both great characters, and the tension between them made for a little excitement and romance. But I was worried about how the love story would end. Catherine Chant did not let me down! The ending has one great, unexpected twist that I did not see coming at all. It brought everything together and made perfect sense after you read it. And I was able to get my happy ever after.
This book was a delight to read, and drew me in from the beginning, even though a few times I was wondering were the plot was headed. This story starts off in 1956, by introducing us to Joey Tempo. He was the newest singing sensation to hit Memphis, but within twelve months of being discovered, was killed in a plane crash back to the United States from London.
Now, fifty years later in the present, we have Callie. While looking in her grandmother's attic for 50's memorabilia for a theme party, she discovers Joey's first album, and she finds herself being drawn into his tragic story, and wanting to change his fate. While listening to his record she is transported back to 1957 where she thinks she is there to save him from the plane crash, especially since she ends up in the airport bathroom when she arrives.
But after talking Joey out of taking that fatal flight, Callie still cannot find her way back home. She is now sucked into being involved in Joey's life and career. And what she finds is things are not turning out the way she planned and everthing is in chaos. Now the question that remains is: can she find her way back home without altering too much of the future? And can she fix what she has done?
I really enjoyed this story. Callie and Joey were both great characters, and the tension between them made for a little excitement and romance. But I was worried about how the love story would end. Catherine Chant did not let me down! The ending has one great, unexpected twist that I did not see coming at all. It brought everything together and made perfect sense after you read it. And I was able to get my happy ever after.
April 29, 2020
This is well written and researched. I read this before GR so don't have a real review for it :). Not my style of book as it's romance genre, but it is well crafted for this type of book, and if you like y/a romance, including one with time travel, I recommend this book.
March 12, 2013
3.5 stars
Time travel (and also reincarnation) is not my favorite story. I feel it is a little bit tricky than other stories. It’s because the authors have to have a good reason to cause their characters to time traveling. Thus they also have to provide the logic in it. If the characters can do it how they are going to back to where they belong, what happen with their life if they change the past, whether they can carry on things when they time traveling and other stuff like that. If the authors fail to intertwine those questions with logical explanation and cannot be related to the story then it failed me. In the other hand, the idea fascinated me so I will always up for time travel story. I even have one stand nicely on my favorite book shelf, The Time Traveler’s Wife.
Yet, I have to admit that I didn’t read this ebook as soon as I got. Somehow I left it behind to read another books. At the beginning, it made me curious. The prolog and first few chapters made me keep my eyes open. I like the idea Callie time traveling back to 5 decade her time, she learn a lot about it and Ms. Chant did a good job providing the setting and the music reference.
Then Callie met Joey and continued to second part of the story, I’m bored. Callie indecision whether she want to stay or go back to her time was kind of annoyed me. While I can understand her hesitation, I couldn’t believe Joey’s love for her. I felt it was too rush, too instant yet kept wonder how it will going to end. I even considered put it on hold since I felt asleep a couple times whenever I tried to read it.
At third part of the story my effort paid. There are surprises and twist. I keep asking why I didn’t think about it. Once again it made my eyes kept open and I can stay awake this time. Then, in the end of the story
a very big twist. I love a story with twist and surprises, story that let my mouth and eyes wide open and the good thing is I can relate to all of the tricky stuff in this story.
Thanks to YA/NA Fanatics and of course to Ms. Chant who allow me reading this story.
Time travel (and also reincarnation) is not my favorite story. I feel it is a little bit tricky than other stories. It’s because the authors have to have a good reason to cause their characters to time traveling. Thus they also have to provide the logic in it. If the characters can do it how they are going to back to where they belong, what happen with their life if they change the past, whether they can carry on things when they time traveling and other stuff like that. If the authors fail to intertwine those questions with logical explanation and cannot be related to the story then it failed me. In the other hand, the idea fascinated me so I will always up for time travel story. I even have one stand nicely on my favorite book shelf, The Time Traveler’s Wife.
Yet, I have to admit that I didn’t read this ebook as soon as I got. Somehow I left it behind to read another books. At the beginning, it made me curious. The prolog and first few chapters made me keep my eyes open. I like the idea Callie time traveling back to 5 decade her time, she learn a lot about it and Ms. Chant did a good job providing the setting and the music reference.
Then Callie met Joey and continued to second part of the story, I’m bored. Callie indecision whether she want to stay or go back to her time was kind of annoyed me. While I can understand her hesitation, I couldn’t believe Joey’s love for her. I felt it was too rush, too instant yet kept wonder how it will going to end. I even considered put it on hold since I felt asleep a couple times whenever I tried to read it.
At third part of the story my effort paid. There are surprises and twist. I keep asking why I didn’t think about it. Once again it made my eyes kept open and I can stay awake this time. Then, in the end of the story
a very big twist. I love a story with twist and surprises, story that let my mouth and eyes wide open and the good thing is I can relate to all of the tricky stuff in this story. Thanks to YA/NA Fanatics and of course to Ms. Chant who allow me reading this story.
January 13, 2017
I was sent a copy of Wishing You Were Here by Catherine Chant from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My kind of time travel:
The concept of time travel is something that intrigues me, but I admit that I am quite picky with the books I read that focuses on this idea. I am not a big fan of science fiction or fantasy, so technical time travel having to do with time machines and the like don’t really appeal to me. However I do like it when it involves a more fate based storyline, like Wishing You Were Here has. As a music lover myself, the idea of an Elvis Pressley style character also really caught my attention.
50’s charm:
Set in a small American town of Shelby Falls, Chant paints a picture of a typical 1950’s era setting. Complete with the small-town support, drugstore diners and ice cream shops. Think Grease. While others may find these descriptions cliché, I loved them all.
Make it or break it:
Although a cute romance, Wishing You Were Here examines the power the record industry holds over their artists. They can make or break a career with the snap of their fingers. This still rings true today, just as much as it did during the time period that this book was set in.
Oh Callie!
Callie was definitely a 2000’s girl with the ideals to match. This didn’t exactly bode well for a young woman trying to pass off as someone coming of age in the late 1950’s. There were times when I wanted to shake her for stepping outside the character she was trying to keep up. I found her attitude to boarder on disrespectful, like an angst-ridden teen. She was also quite meddlesome with Joey’s career, although I know she only wanted what was best for him.
How about that plot twist?
I admit that earlier on in this book, I found some passages to be repetitive making me roll my eyes. However I really enjoyed this story and was able to set aside the unrealistic more often than not. I enjoyed reading along as all was revealed and honestly didn’t see the plot twist coming near the end.
Further reading and recommendations:
I look forward to reading the follow-up novella, as well as the sequel to this series soon. Wishing You Were Here is a fun contemporary romance-style read with a time travel twist. I would recommend it to fans of that genre and think that it would make for an enjoyable beach read.
My kind of time travel:
The concept of time travel is something that intrigues me, but I admit that I am quite picky with the books I read that focuses on this idea. I am not a big fan of science fiction or fantasy, so technical time travel having to do with time machines and the like don’t really appeal to me. However I do like it when it involves a more fate based storyline, like Wishing You Were Here has. As a music lover myself, the idea of an Elvis Pressley style character also really caught my attention.
50’s charm:
Set in a small American town of Shelby Falls, Chant paints a picture of a typical 1950’s era setting. Complete with the small-town support, drugstore diners and ice cream shops. Think Grease. While others may find these descriptions cliché, I loved them all.
Make it or break it:
Although a cute romance, Wishing You Were Here examines the power the record industry holds over their artists. They can make or break a career with the snap of their fingers. This still rings true today, just as much as it did during the time period that this book was set in.
Oh Callie!
Callie was definitely a 2000’s girl with the ideals to match. This didn’t exactly bode well for a young woman trying to pass off as someone coming of age in the late 1950’s. There were times when I wanted to shake her for stepping outside the character she was trying to keep up. I found her attitude to boarder on disrespectful, like an angst-ridden teen. She was also quite meddlesome with Joey’s career, although I know she only wanted what was best for him.
How about that plot twist?
I admit that earlier on in this book, I found some passages to be repetitive making me roll my eyes. However I really enjoyed this story and was able to set aside the unrealistic more often than not. I enjoyed reading along as all was revealed and honestly didn’t see the plot twist coming near the end.
Further reading and recommendations:
I look forward to reading the follow-up novella, as well as the sequel to this series soon. Wishing You Were Here is a fun contemporary romance-style read with a time travel twist. I would recommend it to fans of that genre and think that it would make for an enjoyable beach read.
August 21, 2017
*I got a free copy of the book from the author, in exchange for an honest review*
4.25 stars!
“She's out of place.
He's out of time.”
First, the story is brilliant.
It’ll make you curious, it’ll make you confuse, it’ll make your heart leap, it’ll make you cry, it’ll make you smile. You’ll have your emotions scrambled up while reading this book. But in the end, you’ll actually love this book for making you feel mix up. Why? That’s because the story line is pure awesome.
The prologue was intriguing enough to hook you to the next chapters. A couple of chapters bored me but it didn’t mean that those chapters were not necessary in the story! All of the chapters were connected and you just have to patch them up together and in the end, you’ll be like, “Hoorah! That made sense.”
I’m not into time travel. The time travel thing is not new to me since I watched a couple of dramas revolving on that idea but I’m not really a fan of it. The other ideas Miss Chant used, like soul mate and twin souls, sort of caught my interest. Actually, I like the idea of “twin souls.” It’s pretty unique for me since I haven’t heard of it before and I’m not really a believer of legends and stuff. And using it for your story? Salute, Miss Chant!
The surprises really let my guard down. Those are real “surprises.” I was really shock about Joey Tempo’s real identity. Woohoo, I don’t want to spoil anyone of you but /winks/ be ready for some jaw dropping moments, my friends.
The story's flow is smooth although just what I said a while ago, some chapters bored me. I noticed some flaws but heck, every book has flaws. The romance is just right, not too sappy or too dull.
Overall, the story is great and I’m looking forward to more of Miss Chant’s works.
Wait, in addition, I saw “Soul Mates Book 1” /wiggles eyebrows/ I’m excited for Book 2. :D
4.25 stars!
“She's out of place.
He's out of time.”
First, the story is brilliant.
It’ll make you curious, it’ll make you confuse, it’ll make your heart leap, it’ll make you cry, it’ll make you smile. You’ll have your emotions scrambled up while reading this book. But in the end, you’ll actually love this book for making you feel mix up. Why? That’s because the story line is pure awesome.
The prologue was intriguing enough to hook you to the next chapters. A couple of chapters bored me but it didn’t mean that those chapters were not necessary in the story! All of the chapters were connected and you just have to patch them up together and in the end, you’ll be like, “Hoorah! That made sense.”
I’m not into time travel. The time travel thing is not new to me since I watched a couple of dramas revolving on that idea but I’m not really a fan of it. The other ideas Miss Chant used, like soul mate and twin souls, sort of caught my interest. Actually, I like the idea of “twin souls.” It’s pretty unique for me since I haven’t heard of it before and I’m not really a believer of legends and stuff. And using it for your story? Salute, Miss Chant!
The surprises really let my guard down. Those are real “surprises.” I was really shock about Joey Tempo’s real identity. Woohoo, I don’t want to spoil anyone of you but /winks/ be ready for some jaw dropping moments, my friends.
The story's flow is smooth although just what I said a while ago, some chapters bored me. I noticed some flaws but heck, every book has flaws. The romance is just right, not too sappy or too dull.
Overall, the story is great and I’m looking forward to more of Miss Chant’s works.
Wait, in addition, I saw “Soul Mates Book 1” /wiggles eyebrows/ I’m excited for Book 2. :D
October 7, 2014
3.5 Stars
I've been struggling with my review of this book since I completed my read. I received the book as a read to review and overall, I am glad I did. It's a good book, one of those that sticks with you when you're not reading it. I enjoyed the premise. The author has a great writing style, not too weighted or wordy, yet immersive pictures are conveyed with great ease. The characters are well-rounded and mostly believable. I loved the book in so many ways, but here is why I've been struggling: the book desperately needs a solid edit. I'm not a stickler for perfection in books. Typos happen; things get missed. That's the nature of reading and editing. Every person will catch something different. But in the case of this book, errors are glaring. Missing words, confusing sentences (where structure leaves the subject ambiguous), overuse of "to be" (creating stagnant sentences amid otherwise lovely prose), and incorrect verb use (singular instead of the needed plural or vice versa) shake the reading experience. In many cases, there are numerous errors on a page. Because of this, I lost my reader's trance after a while, to my great frustration. I don't often find a book that completely engrosses me, and when I do, I don't want to be reminded another world exists. With this book, I really, really wanted to stay engrossed (yes, it's that good).
Without the errors, this is easily a solid 4 or 4.5 star rating, so if grammar doesn't bother you, you'll love this. If it does, you'll still like this book, but you will have issues staying engrossed.
Either way, read the book and keep a watch on this author. She's worth your time.
I've been struggling with my review of this book since I completed my read. I received the book as a read to review and overall, I am glad I did. It's a good book, one of those that sticks with you when you're not reading it. I enjoyed the premise. The author has a great writing style, not too weighted or wordy, yet immersive pictures are conveyed with great ease. The characters are well-rounded and mostly believable. I loved the book in so many ways, but here is why I've been struggling: the book desperately needs a solid edit. I'm not a stickler for perfection in books. Typos happen; things get missed. That's the nature of reading and editing. Every person will catch something different. But in the case of this book, errors are glaring. Missing words, confusing sentences (where structure leaves the subject ambiguous), overuse of "to be" (creating stagnant sentences amid otherwise lovely prose), and incorrect verb use (singular instead of the needed plural or vice versa) shake the reading experience. In many cases, there are numerous errors on a page. Because of this, I lost my reader's trance after a while, to my great frustration. I don't often find a book that completely engrosses me, and when I do, I don't want to be reminded another world exists. With this book, I really, really wanted to stay engrossed (yes, it's that good).
Without the errors, this is easily a solid 4 or 4.5 star rating, so if grammar doesn't bother you, you'll love this. If it does, you'll still like this book, but you will have issues staying engrossed.
Either way, read the book and keep a watch on this author. She's worth your time.
July 15, 2013
Books & Sweet Epiphany
www.booksandsweetepiphany.blogspot.com
This is the best book I've read in the month of July.
Wish You Were Here is a book where you can't stop reading, your heart pounds in time with the characters in the book, the writing style just drags you into the story and in the end, you can't help but fall in love with the book.
I love the time travelling theme in the story and the beautiful love story between Callie and Joey Tempo.
When I said "love story", I meant there's a lot of pain, anguish, slight jealousy and the ups and downs of a relationship. The way Catherine Chant wrote the story really really really pulls me in and made me feel whatever the main character is feeling.
For me, that is one of the few elements of a really awesome book.
The story is unforgettable and the characters are likable.
When I first read the synopsis, I was immediately pulled in because of the words,
"She's out of place. He's out of time.".
That was like, the one of the best lines I've ever read.
At first, I thought the book was similar to the 'Time Traveler's Wife' but I really got a sweet surprise.
Its completely different. Well, that's what I thought.
If you ever get your hands on this book, trust me, you HAVE to get it.
For me, a good book is when the story is able to drag you in, scramble up all your emotions, and letting your heart ache in pain when you've reached the ending.
Seriously, go and get it. I really really really REALLY want the paperback version of Wish You Were Here. If I DO get it, I'll put it up on my FAVOURITE BOOK SHRINE (which is my bookcase) :)
Sincerely,
Selina.
www.booksandsweetepiphany.blogspot.com
This is the best book I've read in the month of July.
Wish You Were Here is a book where you can't stop reading, your heart pounds in time with the characters in the book, the writing style just drags you into the story and in the end, you can't help but fall in love with the book.
I love the time travelling theme in the story and the beautiful love story between Callie and Joey Tempo.
When I said "love story", I meant there's a lot of pain, anguish, slight jealousy and the ups and downs of a relationship. The way Catherine Chant wrote the story really really really pulls me in and made me feel whatever the main character is feeling.
For me, that is one of the few elements of a really awesome book.
The story is unforgettable and the characters are likable.
When I first read the synopsis, I was immediately pulled in because of the words,
"She's out of place. He's out of time.".
That was like, the one of the best lines I've ever read.
At first, I thought the book was similar to the 'Time Traveler's Wife' but I really got a sweet surprise.
Its completely different. Well, that's what I thought.
If you ever get your hands on this book, trust me, you HAVE to get it.
For me, a good book is when the story is able to drag you in, scramble up all your emotions, and letting your heart ache in pain when you've reached the ending.
Seriously, go and get it. I really really really REALLY want the paperback version of Wish You Were Here. If I DO get it, I'll put it up on my FAVOURITE BOOK SHRINE (which is my bookcase) :)
Sincerely,
Selina.
December 21, 2012
I missed the fact that this was YA book when I bought it - and boy was I glad. The book had me hooked from the start and was gutted that I had to put it down at 1 in the morning to sleep. I good length book with a brilliant story. I am looking forward to reading more by this author. I recommend this book to anyone who loves YA books and to everyone else - there is no "naughty" bits and I would let my daughter who is 16 read this. There is a love story in the book and just a fabulous read.
August 16, 2014
Catherine Chant spins a great story about a young girl who travels through time to help a singer achieve his dreams.
Full review in March 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Full review in March 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 29, 2013
4.8 stars (rounded to 5 on my Goodreads list) see review at mamabookasaurus.blogspot.com
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I picked up my iPad at 1pm yesterday and read through my son's nap. At the bus stop picking up my daughter and waiting at the pharmacy on my other son's medicine my eyes were glued to the pages. Reluctantly, I put it down when I had to stop to make kids dinner, change diapers, fill sippy cups, review homework, give said medicine and tuck them in for the night. Then I read non stop till 12:30am. And I am sitting here writing my review now instead of getting much needed sleep because it was Just. That. Good.
You all know I am a sucker for time travel novels. This one was superb. It was back and forth time continuum craziness. Chant wrapped me up tighter than a newborn in a swaddle with her fascinating take on what could happen if you went back in time and actually TRIED to change history. Think about it... everything hinges on just one moment. Life. Death. Success. Failure. Wealth. Poverty. What would you do if you had the chance to go back in time and help someone? Would you try or be afraid you'd make it worse? Or would you be confident you'd be assisting them?
Oooh.. it is like spaghetti noodles all wrapped up in my brain.. what a yummy mess to think about! Now let's throw in an undeniable connection to a guy who's looks could get him arrested for public disruption he's that gorgeous and you have yourself one hot mess!
The one reason I didn't give it 5 stars was a little pet peeve of mine. I noticed in several spots throughout the book a lack of sentence variation, specifically the opening. A couple pages in particular had about 75% of the sentences starting with her. That bothered me a bit and tripped up my reading flow. However, that did not dampen my enthusiasm for the storyline.
My other little annoyance was at the idea that staying home and raising kids instead of a job is not fulfilling. My Mom was raised at that time, graduating and getting married in 1958. I went to school, got my degree and worked for some years but stopped when I had my kids to be home for them. I don't think either one of us has regretted it and I know others who would agree. Maybe I'm oversensitive about the whole idea and reading too much into it, but that was my gut reaction.
With those two items aside, I thrilled to the vortex Chant sucked me into. By the halfway point in the book, I was mumbling to anyone near me asking a question. They know if I am that into it, they need to just walk away. Joey and Callie's characters were captivating. The last half of the book and the last 30 pages had me whipped. Not just by his development but how everything came together. It had a few smiling moments, a handful of utter tear jerker scenes and a completely satisfied reader by the end.
Well done Catherine Chant. I would love to see this continue into a series as there are some unanswered questions such as how did she get that ability? Who else has it and do they know each other? Could any of her future children be able to time travel as well?
Buckle up readers, this is one YA, romance time travel novel that will throw you for a loop and leave you breathless!
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I picked up my iPad at 1pm yesterday and read through my son's nap. At the bus stop picking up my daughter and waiting at the pharmacy on my other son's medicine my eyes were glued to the pages. Reluctantly, I put it down when I had to stop to make kids dinner, change diapers, fill sippy cups, review homework, give said medicine and tuck them in for the night. Then I read non stop till 12:30am. And I am sitting here writing my review now instead of getting much needed sleep because it was Just. That. Good.
You all know I am a sucker for time travel novels. This one was superb. It was back and forth time continuum craziness. Chant wrapped me up tighter than a newborn in a swaddle with her fascinating take on what could happen if you went back in time and actually TRIED to change history. Think about it... everything hinges on just one moment. Life. Death. Success. Failure. Wealth. Poverty. What would you do if you had the chance to go back in time and help someone? Would you try or be afraid you'd make it worse? Or would you be confident you'd be assisting them?
Oooh.. it is like spaghetti noodles all wrapped up in my brain.. what a yummy mess to think about! Now let's throw in an undeniable connection to a guy who's looks could get him arrested for public disruption he's that gorgeous and you have yourself one hot mess!
The one reason I didn't give it 5 stars was a little pet peeve of mine. I noticed in several spots throughout the book a lack of sentence variation, specifically the opening. A couple pages in particular had about 75% of the sentences starting with her. That bothered me a bit and tripped up my reading flow. However, that did not dampen my enthusiasm for the storyline.
My other little annoyance was at the idea that staying home and raising kids instead of a job is not fulfilling. My Mom was raised at that time, graduating and getting married in 1958. I went to school, got my degree and worked for some years but stopped when I had my kids to be home for them. I don't think either one of us has regretted it and I know others who would agree. Maybe I'm oversensitive about the whole idea and reading too much into it, but that was my gut reaction.
With those two items aside, I thrilled to the vortex Chant sucked me into. By the halfway point in the book, I was mumbling to anyone near me asking a question. They know if I am that into it, they need to just walk away. Joey and Callie's characters were captivating. The last half of the book and the last 30 pages had me whipped. Not just by his development but how everything came together. It had a few smiling moments, a handful of utter tear jerker scenes and a completely satisfied reader by the end.
Well done Catherine Chant. I would love to see this continue into a series as there are some unanswered questions such as how did she get that ability? Who else has it and do they know each other? Could any of her future children be able to time travel as well?
Buckle up readers, this is one YA, romance time travel novel that will throw you for a loop and leave you breathless!
December 29, 2014
Wishing You Were Here is a compelling love story with a twist. The main character, Callie, has traveled back in time to save the life of a could-be legend. Immediately, I was drawn into the story after hearing about this girl's normal home-life situation, with an annoying little sister and an unusual love for all things 'dead' - as her sister likes to say.
It is only after familiarizing us with the home-life of the normal modern-day girl that she wakes up in unusual clothes in an unusual place and in an unusual time. Right away the author successfully makes the reader want to find out what will happen next by leaving us with plenty of unanswered questions.
The main character, Callie is a normal girl, with a love of old music. I found that Callie's character intrigued me. I liked reading about her need to save Joey Tempo, after all he is the reason she went back in time. However, when she succeeds and then has to go live in his town I enjoyed reading about her journey of discovery, where she found out not only what happened to her, but also who she and who Joey really are to each other.
Joey Tempo, is an easily loveable character. Right away, I took a liking to him and, where Callie found it annoying when he calls her 'little girl', I thought it was the funniest and cutest thing ever. Joey is an interesting character who, at first seems like a normal wannabe Elvis, but after a while you discover that there is much more to him, hidden deep under his exterior. His need to be himself and write his own music inspired me and made me love him all the more. That he will fight for what he wants and believes in, even if it would be easier to just do what everyone else wanted him to do is inspirational.
The author successfully wrote an interesting story of love and heartbreak, through the forming of Callie and Joey's relationship. Reading about the love the two characters share for each other, even after things get hard will definitely warm your heart. I found myself laughing with happiness when the characters finally figured it out and crying my eyes out when Callie had to make the toughest decision ever, to leave the love of her life.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book, it will warm your heart and make you fall in love with the characters. The ending is just perfect and there are many surprises hidden within the story that will undoubtedly shock you, (like they did me!) and leave you wanting more.
It is only after familiarizing us with the home-life of the normal modern-day girl that she wakes up in unusual clothes in an unusual place and in an unusual time. Right away the author successfully makes the reader want to find out what will happen next by leaving us with plenty of unanswered questions.
The main character, Callie is a normal girl, with a love of old music. I found that Callie's character intrigued me. I liked reading about her need to save Joey Tempo, after all he is the reason she went back in time. However, when she succeeds and then has to go live in his town I enjoyed reading about her journey of discovery, where she found out not only what happened to her, but also who she and who Joey really are to each other.
Joey Tempo, is an easily loveable character. Right away, I took a liking to him and, where Callie found it annoying when he calls her 'little girl', I thought it was the funniest and cutest thing ever. Joey is an interesting character who, at first seems like a normal wannabe Elvis, but after a while you discover that there is much more to him, hidden deep under his exterior. His need to be himself and write his own music inspired me and made me love him all the more. That he will fight for what he wants and believes in, even if it would be easier to just do what everyone else wanted him to do is inspirational.
The author successfully wrote an interesting story of love and heartbreak, through the forming of Callie and Joey's relationship. Reading about the love the two characters share for each other, even after things get hard will definitely warm your heart. I found myself laughing with happiness when the characters finally figured it out and crying my eyes out when Callie had to make the toughest decision ever, to leave the love of her life.
Overall, I definitely recommend this book, it will warm your heart and make you fall in love with the characters. The ending is just perfect and there are many surprises hidden within the story that will undoubtedly shock you, (like they did me!) and leave you wanting more.
February 3, 2013
I won a copy of this ebook from YA readers Lounge for a review!
3.5 stars. Callie loves music and she hopes to build her career in radio broadcasting. She discovers a old record of 50's sensation Joey in her attic and travels back to the 50's through the record. The catch is, she is supposed save to joey, who will be dying in a plane crash later that day.
I like Callie. If I had been in her shoes, god knows what I would have done (running crazy seems to be a very possible outcome). She kept her cool though. And the thing I most liked was that she didn't lose herself the moment she met Joey. She realized what she was doing and felt adequately guilty by it.
As a romantic lead, Joey was sweet. However, he was a little too charming and trusting. I know fate (or whatever that made Callie go through time) was a big thing, but Joey was immediately smitten, which I didn't like. He had to have been blind not to notice what Sable was thinking. However, that didn't take any off the stories' charm (or Joey's). I swooned a little bit on the lake scene!
The setting was amazing! I am not really a fan of 50's music, but even I was sold!!
I liked the characters of Sable, Tim and Joey's manager. They were quite well developed. I could almost predict how Furious Sable was going to be! Also, I love her name!!
The ending was awesome! I confess, I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!!!! I thought Callie will have to think of some awesome ninja move, but , nope, her work was already done! She had to just reap the fruits! :D
Overall, a very nice read!
3.5 stars. Callie loves music and she hopes to build her career in radio broadcasting. She discovers a old record of 50's sensation Joey in her attic and travels back to the 50's through the record. The catch is, she is supposed save to joey, who will be dying in a plane crash later that day.
I like Callie. If I had been in her shoes, god knows what I would have done (running crazy seems to be a very possible outcome). She kept her cool though. And the thing I most liked was that she didn't lose herself the moment she met Joey. She realized what she was doing and felt adequately guilty by it.
As a romantic lead, Joey was sweet. However, he was a little too charming and trusting. I know fate (or whatever that made Callie go through time) was a big thing, but Joey was immediately smitten, which I didn't like. He had to have been blind not to notice what Sable was thinking. However, that didn't take any off the stories' charm (or Joey's). I swooned a little bit on the lake scene!
The setting was amazing! I am not really a fan of 50's music, but even I was sold!!
I liked the characters of Sable, Tim and Joey's manager. They were quite well developed. I could almost predict how Furious Sable was going to be! Also, I love her name!!
The ending was awesome! I confess, I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!!!! I thought Callie will have to think of some awesome ninja move, but , nope, her work was already done! She had to just reap the fruits! :D
Overall, a very nice read!
December 23, 2012
Callie Reinhard is an avid music fan with dreams of a career in radio. Though she’s drawn to music from the 60’s and 70’s, an unexpected discovery of a vintage record from the 50’s by an artist named Joey Tempo proves irresistible, and Callie is drawn to learning more about his music and his life. She can’t shake the feeling that their lives are connected. When she discovers that Joey died on a transatlantic flight in 1957, Callie is determined to somehow change his fate. After a mysterious time portal transports her into the past, she comes face to face with Joey Tempo himself. Will Callie manage to alter time and save Joey from a tragic fate? Will Joey’s fame and fortune take a well-deserved place in history? Will Callie and Joey find happiness in their shared love of music… and in each other’s arms?
Catherine Chant is a gifted author with a unique voice that will certainly appeal to readers young and old, especially those who enjoy young adult fiction. Chant’s debut novel is filled with emotions that sing across the pages as we join Callie on her journey into the past in an effort to save the legendary Joey Tempo. Time travel novels tend to confuse me, but such was not the case with WISHING YOU WERE HERE. Bravo, Ms. Chant, for doing such an excellent job in hooking the reader right from the start and fine-tuning the pages to give the reader that happily-ever-after each of us seeks.
Catherine Chant is a gifted author with a unique voice that will certainly appeal to readers young and old, especially those who enjoy young adult fiction. Chant’s debut novel is filled with emotions that sing across the pages as we join Callie on her journey into the past in an effort to save the legendary Joey Tempo. Time travel novels tend to confuse me, but such was not the case with WISHING YOU WERE HERE. Bravo, Ms. Chant, for doing such an excellent job in hooking the reader right from the start and fine-tuning the pages to give the reader that happily-ever-after each of us seeks.
October 26, 2014
I just finished reading this wonderfully fun YA/NA time travel story by Catherine Chant.
Callie Reinard, a 21st century Boston teen, has just graduated from high school and is looking forward to college and an exciting career in radio. So how is it that she finds herself thrown back in time to 1957 and to London's Heathrow Airport, trying to stop the tragic death of '50's Rock'n'Roll heartthrob, Joey Tempo?
After Callie succeeds in keeping Joey off that doomed plane, she thinks her job is done and that she'll be returned to her own time. But things aren't that easy and Fate, it seems, has other plans for Callie and the cute and talented Joey. Oh...and did I forget to mention that Joey's already engaged to a small-town beauty queen who's none too happy when Callie sticks around?
I really enjoyed Callie agonizing over whether she should stay in 1957 with Joey, knowing that he's seriously unavailable. Or should she try to return to the present. And how exactly is she supposed to do that, anyway?
The author draws some wonderful word pictures of the late 1950's and the early days of rock'n'roll. If you enjoy time travel stories, young adult 'coming of age' stories, or just like a sweet romance, you'll like this book a lot. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Callie Reinard, a 21st century Boston teen, has just graduated from high school and is looking forward to college and an exciting career in radio. So how is it that she finds herself thrown back in time to 1957 and to London's Heathrow Airport, trying to stop the tragic death of '50's Rock'n'Roll heartthrob, Joey Tempo?
After Callie succeeds in keeping Joey off that doomed plane, she thinks her job is done and that she'll be returned to her own time. But things aren't that easy and Fate, it seems, has other plans for Callie and the cute and talented Joey. Oh...and did I forget to mention that Joey's already engaged to a small-town beauty queen who's none too happy when Callie sticks around?
I really enjoyed Callie agonizing over whether she should stay in 1957 with Joey, knowing that he's seriously unavailable. Or should she try to return to the present. And how exactly is she supposed to do that, anyway?
The author draws some wonderful word pictures of the late 1950's and the early days of rock'n'roll. If you enjoy time travel stories, young adult 'coming of age' stories, or just like a sweet romance, you'll like this book a lot. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 30, 2013
*I received the book from the author, via Goodreads, in exchange for an honest review*
Oh my goodness, I love this book! I love the flow of this book, and the writing style was great. As some previous reviewer's mentioned, I would have loved to have Joey's POV, but it would have given too much away :)
Callie is a sweet, kind girl and I love her character. I was a little creeped out when Callie and Joey started falling in love, just because of the perceived age factor. But as the story progressed, I forgot about the age thing, and just enjoyed the story.
I was a little bothered by Sable. She claims she just wants to be a wife and mother, when really thats not the case. She looks down on Callie because she wants more from her life. And for someone who knows what she was getting into following her dad's and Walter's directions, she seems pretty gullible, and I don't think that's how her character was written. In some ways, she seems strong, and in others, just plain stupid.
I found the twist totally unexpected, but when I read it, I had that "AHA" moment. It made so much sense!
Overall, this was a great read, and while I hope the story continues in another book, there is an ending. I found this book appropriate for both my 13 and 16 yo daughters.
Oh my goodness, I love this book! I love the flow of this book, and the writing style was great. As some previous reviewer's mentioned, I would have loved to have Joey's POV, but it would have given too much away :)
Callie is a sweet, kind girl and I love her character. I was a little creeped out when Callie and Joey started falling in love, just because of the perceived age factor. But as the story progressed, I forgot about the age thing, and just enjoyed the story.
I was a little bothered by Sable. She claims she just wants to be a wife and mother, when really thats not the case. She looks down on Callie because she wants more from her life. And for someone who knows what she was getting into following her dad's and Walter's directions, she seems pretty gullible, and I don't think that's how her character was written. In some ways, she seems strong, and in others, just plain stupid.
I found the twist totally unexpected, but when I read it, I had that "AHA" moment. It made so much sense!
Overall, this was a great read, and while I hope the story continues in another book, there is an ending. I found this book appropriate for both my 13 and 16 yo daughters.
September 25, 2024
Highly recommend! I couldn’t believe it when I found out it was a young adult book! I’m 47 and loved it! I guess I’m young at heart ☺️
May 25, 2015
Rating 3.5.
The last half of this book was better than the first half. The self-doubts and regrets and arguments and issues in the first half of the book seemed to be churned over and over. They needed to be there, just not in the quantity they were. I really liked the last half and hadn't seen the last twists and turns coming. Although it isn't listed on Goodreads, this is book one in a series and I look forward to book 2. (There is a novella listed on Goodreads but supposedly book 2 is in the works.)
The last half of this book was better than the first half. The self-doubts and regrets and arguments and issues in the first half of the book seemed to be churned over and over. They needed to be there, just not in the quantity they were. I really liked the last half and hadn't seen the last twists and turns coming. Although it isn't listed on Goodreads, this is book one in a series and I look forward to book 2. (There is a novella listed on Goodreads but supposedly book 2 is in the works.)
April 1, 2020
Could Not Put Down
I often really like books, but never get around to writing a review. Obviously, this book was an exception. I felt every emotion that Callie felt and even at times was confused with her as to what the right move was. I also spent agonizing chapters trying to figure out how in the hell Callie would get her cake and eat it to. This book was amazingly well done and I’m so glad it was recommended to me. No matter what style or genre of book you enjoy, I highly recommend picking this one up.
I often really like books, but never get around to writing a review. Obviously, this book was an exception. I felt every emotion that Callie felt and even at times was confused with her as to what the right move was. I also spent agonizing chapters trying to figure out how in the hell Callie would get her cake and eat it to. This book was amazingly well done and I’m so glad it was recommended to me. No matter what style or genre of book you enjoy, I highly recommend picking this one up.
April 25, 2024
A time travel with a couple of different twists, it was fun to go back to 1957. I had been looking for a 50's time travel book that I had heard about a few years ago and ran onto this one. Though there was one aspect I wasn't too fond of, it was a really enjoyable book. I couldn't figure out how things could possibly come out okay!
May 11, 2013
I just don't liked the end. Just... too perfect to be real!
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