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Surviving Goodbye
In the final hours of her life, Elliot Fitch’s wife confesses that he is not the biological father to their 16-year old daughter.
Surviving Goodbye follows Elliot’s collision course with Fate as he embarks on a journey to locate his daughter’s real father.
When Elena, now seventeen years old, announces her unplanned pregnancy and the father’s unwillingness to play a role in their child’s upbringing, Elliot faces an ironic dilemma about the true meaning of parenthood and the roles we play in the lives of others, particularly those we love and who love us in return.
Bad Word The f-word or some variation thereof appears 126 times (yes, that's an instance of one in every five hundred and ninety-five words) in Surviving Goodbye. Please read with care.
Surviving Goodbye follows Elliot’s collision course with Fate as he embarks on a journey to locate his daughter’s real father.
When Elena, now seventeen years old, announces her unplanned pregnancy and the father’s unwillingness to play a role in their child’s upbringing, Elliot faces an ironic dilemma about the true meaning of parenthood and the roles we play in the lives of others, particularly those we love and who love us in return.
Bad Word The f-word or some variation thereof appears 126 times (yes, that's an instance of one in every five hundred and ninety-five words) in Surviving Goodbye. Please read with care.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2014
236 people are currently reading
668 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Parker
13 books305 followersMorgan Parker is the pen name for a shy and introverted former banker. Given the nature of his former career and his unique childhood upbringing in a trendy, white-collar town West of Toronto, Mr. Parker made up plenty of stories to stay employed and to avoid the responsibilities of adulthood. His novels are a product of those stories.
Mr. Parker believes that all great novels involve realistic characters, motives and love stories. He tries (really hard) to emulate his favorite authors while writing his own novels. He stresses that all of his tales and characters are fictional in nature and welcomes all kinds of feedback, even the worst kind, so that he might continue to develop and grow as an author.
When Mr. Parker isn't writing, he likes to read and watch movies. As a serial napper, he has been known to convert corporate prayer rooms and quiet areas into common siesta zones. He believes in hibernation.
Mr. Parker believes that all great novels involve realistic characters, motives and love stories. He tries (really hard) to emulate his favorite authors while writing his own novels. He stresses that all of his tales and characters are fictional in nature and welcomes all kinds of feedback, even the worst kind, so that he might continue to develop and grow as an author.
When Mr. Parker isn't writing, he likes to read and watch movies. As a serial napper, he has been known to convert corporate prayer rooms and quiet areas into common siesta zones. He believes in hibernation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 12, 2014
"You're everything that's perfect."
Another great book from Morgan Parker! This story stirred up a mix of emotions and really left me guessing until the end.
Elliot is a loving husband and doting father that has his world shattered. His wife is dying in hospice when she breaks it to him. Their picture perfect marriage has been a lie. His 16-year old, "Baby Bear" isn't his daughter. It's a devastating blow.
He spends a year after his wife dies, wallowing in his grief and barely functioning. Leaving his daughter to fend for herself. When she ends up pregnant and he loses his job, he's forced to wake up. Elliott sets out to find her real father before the baby is born and before sharing the truth. Along the way he finds something and someone he wasn't expecting in Veronica.
"I want to be a writer," I whispered.
"A writer?"
"And you're the most beautiful story I'll ever write."
This story is a reminder that love can be found when you least expect it. Elliot is a sweet guy that I couldn't help but to adore. I thought "Papa Bear" and "Baby Bear" were cute, quirky and even a little awkward together at times. Without that awkwardness, Elliot might not have met Veronica. On the surface they appeared so different, but together were something special. I totally didn't see that coming. Don't miss out on this book. The writing is great and the twist will shock!
4/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
*Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Another great book from Morgan Parker! This story stirred up a mix of emotions and really left me guessing until the end.
Elliot is a loving husband and doting father that has his world shattered. His wife is dying in hospice when she breaks it to him. Their picture perfect marriage has been a lie. His 16-year old, "Baby Bear" isn't his daughter. It's a devastating blow.
He spends a year after his wife dies, wallowing in his grief and barely functioning. Leaving his daughter to fend for herself. When she ends up pregnant and he loses his job, he's forced to wake up. Elliott sets out to find her real father before the baby is born and before sharing the truth. Along the way he finds something and someone he wasn't expecting in Veronica.
"I want to be a writer," I whispered.
"A writer?"
"And you're the most beautiful story I'll ever write."
This story is a reminder that love can be found when you least expect it. Elliot is a sweet guy that I couldn't help but to adore. I thought "Papa Bear" and "Baby Bear" were cute, quirky and even a little awkward together at times. Without that awkwardness, Elliot might not have met Veronica. On the surface they appeared so different, but together were something special. I totally didn't see that coming. Don't miss out on this book. The writing is great and the twist will shock!
4/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
*Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 21, 2014
Morgan has made another loveable character in the name of Elliot Fitch. His name alone makes me smile but he couldn't be further detached from Abercrombie. He's an average Joe but I just know he will become a household name like the infamous Morgan Barker from Non~Friction, another one of my favourites from Morgan Parker and a must read!!
Once again his unique writing makes you beg for more. This story piqued my curiosity a lot. It's very mysterious and keeps you on your toes. The suspenseful elements have your mind running away with your thoughts, but things are not always as you assume them to be.
"I would never love again. Never. My heart belonged to Karen, and once she died, my capacity to love would die right along with her."
Surviving Goodbye also makes you smile in true Morgan Parker style and there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. There's always a flicker, but not necessarily a huge watt. Underlying humour lurking in the darkest of shadows is what he's best at and he does this with great skill. At the turn of a page Morgan Parker has the ability to make you sigh, cry and pee your knickers with laughter. Even in the saddest of scenarios he has the ability to make you smile through your tears.
There's a romantic bedroom scene in this novel that I can only describe as an epiphany. It's highly descriptive in the most unusual way and the discoveries made in this scene will enlighten and give the reader deeper understanding into the nature of the woman Elliot is letting slowly into his life.
Morgan does not have a regular writing style, all his novels are very different and with Surviving Goodbye he's once again stepping outside the box and doing this with style and grace. There's no clumsiness and he deals with unusual scenarios and heart wrenching issues. I'm guaranteeing you won't be able to have a bathroom break for at least 10 chapters, then you'll pee quick, rush back for more and not dare drink water until you reach the epilogue .
"I hate that what if's will haunt you for the rest of your life"
Oh the epilogue. He knows how to tease us and he knows how to please us. Which way will this go?
Read it, you won't be disappointed.
If Carling did Epilogues they would be in the style of Morgan Parker.
(That's a british thing, google it and you will see what I mean).
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Once again his unique writing makes you beg for more. This story piqued my curiosity a lot. It's very mysterious and keeps you on your toes. The suspenseful elements have your mind running away with your thoughts, but things are not always as you assume them to be.
"I would never love again. Never. My heart belonged to Karen, and once she died, my capacity to love would die right along with her."
Surviving Goodbye also makes you smile in true Morgan Parker style and there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. There's always a flicker, but not necessarily a huge watt. Underlying humour lurking in the darkest of shadows is what he's best at and he does this with great skill. At the turn of a page Morgan Parker has the ability to make you sigh, cry and pee your knickers with laughter. Even in the saddest of scenarios he has the ability to make you smile through your tears.
There's a romantic bedroom scene in this novel that I can only describe as an epiphany. It's highly descriptive in the most unusual way and the discoveries made in this scene will enlighten and give the reader deeper understanding into the nature of the woman Elliot is letting slowly into his life.
Morgan does not have a regular writing style, all his novels are very different and with Surviving Goodbye he's once again stepping outside the box and doing this with style and grace. There's no clumsiness and he deals with unusual scenarios and heart wrenching issues. I'm guaranteeing you won't be able to have a bathroom break for at least 10 chapters, then you'll pee quick, rush back for more and not dare drink water until you reach the epilogue .
"I hate that what if's will haunt you for the rest of your life"
Oh the epilogue. He knows how to tease us and he knows how to please us. Which way will this go?
Read it, you won't be disappointed.
If Carling did Epilogues they would be in the style of Morgan Parker.
(That's a british thing, google it and you will see what I mean).
Like me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kelseyskorne...
Check out my Website http://kelseyskornerblog.com/
Follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/kelseys_korner
September 18, 2014
I read A LOT of books. Most of them are really good. Most of them I spend a lot of time talking about and putting them into people’s hands because they deserve to be read. Every so often, however, I get a truly special book. I end up savoring it. Wanting it to last because the story is so good, I want to live there forever. The characters are so alive, so three dimensional, that I want to invite them over for dinner. Everything about it just thoroughly leaves me smitten, exhilarated and begging for more.
This book is one of those few. This book is one of the most gorgeous stories I’ve ever had the honor to read. This book had me smirking, belly laughing, growling and sobbing several times over.
Elliott Fitch learns from his wife that his daughter is not his biologically – while his wife is on her deathbed. So not only is Elliott left to deal with the death of the love of his life, but her confessed infidelity. He has to figure out how and if that affects his relationship with his daughter. How much is biology worth when it comes to real family? How much is motive worth when it comes to something like adultery? Elliott is left in a swirling vortex of anger, hatred, betrayal and confusion that sucks a year away from him before he comes out of the emotional coma enough to start semi-functioning again. Before he can consciously decide what he needs to do to make peace with his life as it stands currently tipped on its axis with no hope of every righting itself again.
Lena Fitch is Elliott’s daughter and she has no intention of making his life any easier. In fact, in her 17-year-old wisdom she’s going out of her way to help wake her Papa Bear up out of his comatose state. And it works. They find their way back to each other despite the hurt and abandonment and confusion.
Watching this lost father and this lost daughter figure it out and end up solid is one of the most beautiful journeys I’ve ever read. It is intense and honest and tremendously heartfelt.
You’d think Elliott’s life would be plenty full with a dead wife, her life altering confession and a teenage daughter. But no. He needs a love interest too. And that love interest is Veronica. She of blue hair, tattoos and an ability to get anyone and every one to talk to her. She is much younger than Elliott, has a 5 year old daughter and crawls under his skin from the very moment he first lays eyes on her. Knows he is immediately attracted to her and intrigued by her. And as with all the very best literary relationships – she brings out the very best in him. Takes his very best qualities and amps them up 110% until they are so overwhelmingly charming, I wanted to crawl into the book and steal him away from her.
This book is Morgan Parker’s masterpiece. If you’ve been following my reviews at all, you know already know how much I love and admire his writing. But this one? This one is inspired. This one is so lovely I wanted to read it again the moment it ended. This one is a perfectly told story about love that so fearlessly explores every single facet of the concept that I willingly was swept up with the characters in every minute.
I am unabashedly, all out, no hold barred in love with this book. The writing is flawless. The pacing is perfect and keeps you perfectly perched on the edge of your seat for its entirety. The characters are subtle and relatable and so real that I want to move next door to them. Parker always shows me how perfectly he balances the innate subtlety of his writing with the incredible heat and intelligent humor intrinsically encapsulated by it. It inspired me to bark with laughter, pant from the heat and sink into the story of it all without even thinking about it. His writing takes me away from conscious choice and simply allows me to feel.
Books are written about love every day. I read books about love every single day. Ninety percent of them are really good and appeal whole-heartedly to the hopeless romantic in me. But this one? This one appeals to my very human nature. Appeals to that in me that believes that, in the end, love is always right and love always wins. Even when it’s saying goodbye.
This book is one of those few. This book is one of the most gorgeous stories I’ve ever had the honor to read. This book had me smirking, belly laughing, growling and sobbing several times over.
Elliott Fitch learns from his wife that his daughter is not his biologically – while his wife is on her deathbed. So not only is Elliott left to deal with the death of the love of his life, but her confessed infidelity. He has to figure out how and if that affects his relationship with his daughter. How much is biology worth when it comes to real family? How much is motive worth when it comes to something like adultery? Elliott is left in a swirling vortex of anger, hatred, betrayal and confusion that sucks a year away from him before he comes out of the emotional coma enough to start semi-functioning again. Before he can consciously decide what he needs to do to make peace with his life as it stands currently tipped on its axis with no hope of every righting itself again.
Lena Fitch is Elliott’s daughter and she has no intention of making his life any easier. In fact, in her 17-year-old wisdom she’s going out of her way to help wake her Papa Bear up out of his comatose state. And it works. They find their way back to each other despite the hurt and abandonment and confusion.
Watching this lost father and this lost daughter figure it out and end up solid is one of the most beautiful journeys I’ve ever read. It is intense and honest and tremendously heartfelt.
You’d think Elliott’s life would be plenty full with a dead wife, her life altering confession and a teenage daughter. But no. He needs a love interest too. And that love interest is Veronica. She of blue hair, tattoos and an ability to get anyone and every one to talk to her. She is much younger than Elliott, has a 5 year old daughter and crawls under his skin from the very moment he first lays eyes on her. Knows he is immediately attracted to her and intrigued by her. And as with all the very best literary relationships – she brings out the very best in him. Takes his very best qualities and amps them up 110% until they are so overwhelmingly charming, I wanted to crawl into the book and steal him away from her.
This book is Morgan Parker’s masterpiece. If you’ve been following my reviews at all, you know already know how much I love and admire his writing. But this one? This one is inspired. This one is so lovely I wanted to read it again the moment it ended. This one is a perfectly told story about love that so fearlessly explores every single facet of the concept that I willingly was swept up with the characters in every minute.
I am unabashedly, all out, no hold barred in love with this book. The writing is flawless. The pacing is perfect and keeps you perfectly perched on the edge of your seat for its entirety. The characters are subtle and relatable and so real that I want to move next door to them. Parker always shows me how perfectly he balances the innate subtlety of his writing with the incredible heat and intelligent humor intrinsically encapsulated by it. It inspired me to bark with laughter, pant from the heat and sink into the story of it all without even thinking about it. His writing takes me away from conscious choice and simply allows me to feel.
Books are written about love every day. I read books about love every single day. Ninety percent of them are really good and appeal whole-heartedly to the hopeless romantic in me. But this one? This one appeals to my very human nature. Appeals to that in me that believes that, in the end, love is always right and love always wins. Even when it’s saying goodbye.
August 21, 2014
"I don't believe in love. Love is a delusion."
"Love is a word, and words are weapons."
I've never heard truer words... My favorite quote from the book!!
It's hard to say goodbye to someone you love, it's also hard to let go of hate and anger. Imagine trying to deal with all of those at once. Elliot Finch loved his wife with all he had until the day she died. The day she died is the day he started to hate her. Karen, his wife, dropped a bomb on him just moments before she passed on. “Lena… She’s not…” She closed her eyes, pushing out a steady stream of tears. “She’s not yours, Elliot.” What do you say to that? How do you cope?
Fast forward a year…
Elliot is in and out of depression. He’s holding onto so much hate for Karen, and the bomb she dropped on him, that he has shut out everyone around him, including his daughter. He is close to losing his job, he hasn’t even started looking for Lena’s real father and to top the cake, Lena has just announced that she is pregnant, at 17 years old, and the father wants nothing to do with the baby.
In surviving goodbye you will follow Elliot in his quest to cope with the anger and depression his wife left him with as he tries to do right by his daughter, help her cope with being a pregnant teen and find her real father. Lots of ups and downs, twists and turns. But it’s not all sadness and hate, it wouldn’t be a true Morgan Parker book without a few giggles or at least some smiles. I find it amazing how Morgan can do that, break your heart and make you cry, but in the same breath make you laugh and smile. I don’t want to give away too much but I have to tell you who my favorite character is… Veronica is my favorite! She is such a free spirit, cute, bubbly but not overly, she has a great story and I love the way she thinks. Anyway… this was another great story from a great author. I recommend everyone read this book!
"Love is a word, and words are weapons."
I've never heard truer words... My favorite quote from the book!!
It's hard to say goodbye to someone you love, it's also hard to let go of hate and anger. Imagine trying to deal with all of those at once. Elliot Finch loved his wife with all he had until the day she died. The day she died is the day he started to hate her. Karen, his wife, dropped a bomb on him just moments before she passed on. “Lena… She’s not…” She closed her eyes, pushing out a steady stream of tears. “She’s not yours, Elliot.” What do you say to that? How do you cope?
Fast forward a year…
Elliot is in and out of depression. He’s holding onto so much hate for Karen, and the bomb she dropped on him, that he has shut out everyone around him, including his daughter. He is close to losing his job, he hasn’t even started looking for Lena’s real father and to top the cake, Lena has just announced that she is pregnant, at 17 years old, and the father wants nothing to do with the baby.
In surviving goodbye you will follow Elliot in his quest to cope with the anger and depression his wife left him with as he tries to do right by his daughter, help her cope with being a pregnant teen and find her real father. Lots of ups and downs, twists and turns. But it’s not all sadness and hate, it wouldn’t be a true Morgan Parker book without a few giggles or at least some smiles. I find it amazing how Morgan can do that, break your heart and make you cry, but in the same breath make you laugh and smile. I don’t want to give away too much but I have to tell you who my favorite character is… Veronica is my favorite! She is such a free spirit, cute, bubbly but not overly, she has a great story and I love the way she thinks. Anyway… this was another great story from a great author. I recommend everyone read this book!
August 9, 2014
review coming. I always love when an author can take something insignificant to a story and mess with my head.
August 21, 2014
Elliott lost his wife Karen way to early in life. He found out a secret about his daughter that she kept from him all her life. Her brother Jamie held the letter to the truth. When elliott read the letter he was heartbroken. He vowed that day that he was gonna find out the truth. There is a delivery lady named Veronica that has shown up everywhere. He goes to dinner with her and unloads his secret and she wants to help. He trust her with the information and gives her a ride to her car. The next day he tries to find her and it's like she's non existent. She finally texts him back and he gets her more information. His body is becoming accustomed to hers and is making him want more than just friendship from her. They kiss one night after meeting and sparks fly ramped. They start seeing each other and he finally introduces her to Lena. He has a car following him everywhere so he finally decided to confront the person, and everything goes downhill from there. All the real secrets come out and life as he knows it gets flipped upside down. Will he take a leap of faith or stay in his comfort zone?
September 15, 2014
When I read the synopsis I thought that this was an interesting read. However this book is so much more than the synopsis.
Her last words before she died was she's not your daughter. Elliot's life fell apart that moment. He was numb with grief not just for his deceased wife who he loved so much but at the thought of losing his daughter. We go on a journey with Elliot as he struggles with so many emotions and trying to move on.
I found this to be a very interesting read. There were a few times my jaw dropped to the floor with what the author threw at me. Loved the twists. Well done Morgan on another fantastic story.
Her last words before she died was she's not your daughter. Elliot's life fell apart that moment. He was numb with grief not just for his deceased wife who he loved so much but at the thought of losing his daughter. We go on a journey with Elliot as he struggles with so many emotions and trying to move on.
I found this to be a very interesting read. There were a few times my jaw dropped to the floor with what the author threw at me. Loved the twists. Well done Morgan on another fantastic story.
August 10, 2014
Review will follow after I dry the crying spell...
September 4, 2014
5 #PapaBear Stars
Admittedly, I am a Morgan Parker stalker. After reading Non Fric●tion, Hope and Sick Day, I was thoroughly convinced he could do no wrong. Thank you Mr. Parker for not proving me wrong. I hate to be wrong about these things.
In his latest book, Surviving Goodbye, Mr. Parker throws us for another literary loop. He’s very clever that man. What appears to be a tragic love story becomes a mystery read. What appears to be the mystery read becomes the story of romance. Regardless of the genre, Surviving Goodbye is a story about fatherhood and the depth of love that one man has for his daughter.
The story opens with Elliot hearing, from the lips of his dying wife Karen, that once she is gone, he must find love again. It would be a tragedy for him to not love another. She also tells him that he is not the biological father of their daughter Lena. This makes little to no sense as clearly Karen has clearly been as devoted to Elliot as he was to her. Theirs is a love with mutual admiration, passion and respect. So why would Karen tell him this on her death bed, how could she leave him with so many questions?
This confession leaves Elliot in a nearly yearlong fog of grief clouded by betrayal. As he climbs his way out of the depression, Elliot remembers one other thing his wife told him, that her brother has a letter she left for Elliot. Elliot pins his hopes on this letter that will point him to whomever Lena’s father is. This begins the portion of the mystery read. As Elliot embarks on this quest, he has a fateful meeting with a young delivery driver named Veronica. Soon the two are friends and Veronica is volunteering to help Elliot uncover the truth. With the inclusion of Veronica, things just get weirder and it appears that the mission to find Lena’s biological father is now merely a vehicle for the development of Elliot’s and Veronica's friendship.
Elliot’s mission is not built exclusively out of his love for Lena. He’s angry and he wants to know who his wife cheating on him with. However, Elliot’s love for Lena is the driving factor and it causes him to keep the entire matter from Lena, at least until he has the answer. This is why I think this is really a story about Elliot being a father as no matter who might have impregnated his wife, he raised Lena and he shows us that he is so completely and utterly devoted to her happiness. Oh yeah, Lena is pregnant and it looks like the father of her baby isn’t sticking around to help. So although Elliot recognizes that he was a piss poor father in the immediate aftermath of Karen's death, he finds his pride and ultimately his identity in fatherhood. I love how he was absolutely unwavering in his commitment to his daughter. Where some of her attitude would have driven a deeper wedge (pun intended) between Elliot and Lena, he persevered to provide her with a soft place to land.
As I've come to expect from Mr. Parker’s writing, Surviving Goodbye is a story line built on a well-constructed plot that leads our main character Elliot Fitch down some well-tended rabbit holes. His intuition tells him thing, but he’s really not paying attention to his intuition. Oh, he thinks he is, but Elliot takes things at face value when he really should be trying to understand the whole of it. Elliot is a bit neurotic and very gullible, but you love him all the same. He discovers a lot about himself and not all of it is good, but it’s not bad either. The process that Elliot goes through to get to the truth is profound and teaches him, and us, a lesson about the depths of love and admiration (pre and post this mortal coil). Another 5 star read and my highest recommendation in the fiction genre.
To ensure you understand my stalker status: My Sweet was receiving and reading a copy of Surviving Goodbye as ARC. My Suck: it’s done.
Admittedly, I am a Morgan Parker stalker. After reading Non Fric●tion, Hope and Sick Day, I was thoroughly convinced he could do no wrong. Thank you Mr. Parker for not proving me wrong. I hate to be wrong about these things.
In his latest book, Surviving Goodbye, Mr. Parker throws us for another literary loop. He’s very clever that man. What appears to be a tragic love story becomes a mystery read. What appears to be the mystery read becomes the story of romance. Regardless of the genre, Surviving Goodbye is a story about fatherhood and the depth of love that one man has for his daughter.
The story opens with Elliot hearing, from the lips of his dying wife Karen, that once she is gone, he must find love again. It would be a tragedy for him to not love another. She also tells him that he is not the biological father of their daughter Lena. This makes little to no sense as clearly Karen has clearly been as devoted to Elliot as he was to her. Theirs is a love with mutual admiration, passion and respect. So why would Karen tell him this on her death bed, how could she leave him with so many questions?
This confession leaves Elliot in a nearly yearlong fog of grief clouded by betrayal. As he climbs his way out of the depression, Elliot remembers one other thing his wife told him, that her brother has a letter she left for Elliot. Elliot pins his hopes on this letter that will point him to whomever Lena’s father is. This begins the portion of the mystery read. As Elliot embarks on this quest, he has a fateful meeting with a young delivery driver named Veronica. Soon the two are friends and Veronica is volunteering to help Elliot uncover the truth. With the inclusion of Veronica, things just get weirder and it appears that the mission to find Lena’s biological father is now merely a vehicle for the development of Elliot’s and Veronica's friendship.
Elliot’s mission is not built exclusively out of his love for Lena. He’s angry and he wants to know who his wife cheating on him with. However, Elliot’s love for Lena is the driving factor and it causes him to keep the entire matter from Lena, at least until he has the answer. This is why I think this is really a story about Elliot being a father as no matter who might have impregnated his wife, he raised Lena and he shows us that he is so completely and utterly devoted to her happiness. Oh yeah, Lena is pregnant and it looks like the father of her baby isn’t sticking around to help. So although Elliot recognizes that he was a piss poor father in the immediate aftermath of Karen's death, he finds his pride and ultimately his identity in fatherhood. I love how he was absolutely unwavering in his commitment to his daughter. Where some of her attitude would have driven a deeper wedge (pun intended) between Elliot and Lena, he persevered to provide her with a soft place to land.
As I've come to expect from Mr. Parker’s writing, Surviving Goodbye is a story line built on a well-constructed plot that leads our main character Elliot Fitch down some well-tended rabbit holes. His intuition tells him thing, but he’s really not paying attention to his intuition. Oh, he thinks he is, but Elliot takes things at face value when he really should be trying to understand the whole of it. Elliot is a bit neurotic and very gullible, but you love him all the same. He discovers a lot about himself and not all of it is good, but it’s not bad either. The process that Elliot goes through to get to the truth is profound and teaches him, and us, a lesson about the depths of love and admiration (pre and post this mortal coil). Another 5 star read and my highest recommendation in the fiction genre.
To ensure you understand my stalker status: My Sweet was receiving and reading a copy of Surviving Goodbye as ARC. My Suck: it’s done.
September 12, 2014
5 Unforgettable Stars
*ARC review for Crazy Daisy Book Whore*
Have you ever finished reading a book and knew it would stay with you forever? This was that book for me.
I had a really difficult time writing a review that was worthy of this book, because it impacted me in such a profound way. I hope I can give this book the review it deserves.
We meet Elliot Fitch and his teenage daughter, Elena, who are trying to make it through the last few days of Karen's, wife and mom, life. Elliot is losing the love of his life, and he knows he will never love again. Elliot is trying to be strong for Elena, but she and her teen angst are not making anything even bearable. Elena wonders if they loved her mother enough, however, Elliot knows that he could never love anyone more. He vows to Karen that he will never love again.
We meet them again, a year after Karen's death, with Elliot barely hanging on and Elena in desperate need of her father's company. Elliot is consumed by hate from a secret his wife told him before dying. She told him that Elena wasn't his daughter, so he's made it his mission to find her real father. Elliot receives help with his mission from an unlikely source: Veronica, a woman he meets when she delivers an "adult" type of package to his daughter. Veronica is young, vibrant, tattooed, and bold. She takes an interest in Elliot and wants to help him. She has plenty to deal with in her own life, however she wants to make sure Elliot finds what he is looking for.
What will Elliot do if he finds Elena's father? Will his love for his daughter change if he does? Can he possibly let someone else in his in his heart?
This is a love story, and one of the best I've ever read. I really love Morgan's books and writing style. I think it is mostly because they don't follow the typical romance novel formula. The characters are much more like people in real-life and make decisions that someone who isn't a billionaire would have to make. I am, however, beginning to see a bit of a pattern that is all Morgan emerging. I have to say that when it hit me while reading this book, I didn't like it one bit! How many times can his characters chase someone who love them back but can't return that love?
Then I realized something else.
I truly believe that you can't help who you fall in love with. If you fall in love with someone who is an a-hole, then you fall in love with an a-hole. You may even fall in love with someone who doesn't love you back. Love is complicated and difficult. What does matter is that you give your love and share your love with someone who loves you completely. And isn't that why we are all in love with romance books? We read about the love between the characters, analyze it, and live it along with them.
That is the love in this book. Love, weathered and consuming, between a husband and wife that has grown with them for years. Love, strong and protecting, between a father and daughter that will be tested. Love, passionate and new, between lovers that may not be love at all.
"There's no reason behind the way I love you. But there's also no substitute and no end to it."
This is one of my favorite quotes from this book. Morgan captures all of these kinds of love so beautifully in this story. The love in this book is unforgettable. It is real, raw emotion that I am honored to have read.
*ARC review for Crazy Daisy Book Whore*
Have you ever finished reading a book and knew it would stay with you forever? This was that book for me.
I had a really difficult time writing a review that was worthy of this book, because it impacted me in such a profound way. I hope I can give this book the review it deserves.
We meet Elliot Fitch and his teenage daughter, Elena, who are trying to make it through the last few days of Karen's, wife and mom, life. Elliot is losing the love of his life, and he knows he will never love again. Elliot is trying to be strong for Elena, but she and her teen angst are not making anything even bearable. Elena wonders if they loved her mother enough, however, Elliot knows that he could never love anyone more. He vows to Karen that he will never love again.
We meet them again, a year after Karen's death, with Elliot barely hanging on and Elena in desperate need of her father's company. Elliot is consumed by hate from a secret his wife told him before dying. She told him that Elena wasn't his daughter, so he's made it his mission to find her real father. Elliot receives help with his mission from an unlikely source: Veronica, a woman he meets when she delivers an "adult" type of package to his daughter. Veronica is young, vibrant, tattooed, and bold. She takes an interest in Elliot and wants to help him. She has plenty to deal with in her own life, however she wants to make sure Elliot finds what he is looking for.
What will Elliot do if he finds Elena's father? Will his love for his daughter change if he does? Can he possibly let someone else in his in his heart?
This is a love story, and one of the best I've ever read. I really love Morgan's books and writing style. I think it is mostly because they don't follow the typical romance novel formula. The characters are much more like people in real-life and make decisions that someone who isn't a billionaire would have to make. I am, however, beginning to see a bit of a pattern that is all Morgan emerging. I have to say that when it hit me while reading this book, I didn't like it one bit! How many times can his characters chase someone who love them back but can't return that love?
Then I realized something else.
I truly believe that you can't help who you fall in love with. If you fall in love with someone who is an a-hole, then you fall in love with an a-hole. You may even fall in love with someone who doesn't love you back. Love is complicated and difficult. What does matter is that you give your love and share your love with someone who loves you completely. And isn't that why we are all in love with romance books? We read about the love between the characters, analyze it, and live it along with them.
That is the love in this book. Love, weathered and consuming, between a husband and wife that has grown with them for years. Love, strong and protecting, between a father and daughter that will be tested. Love, passionate and new, between lovers that may not be love at all.
"There's no reason behind the way I love you. But there's also no substitute and no end to it."
This is one of my favorite quotes from this book. Morgan captures all of these kinds of love so beautifully in this story. The love in this book is unforgettable. It is real, raw emotion that I am honored to have read.
October 29, 2014
Morgan Parker has created a tale that is both heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time.
The story opens with Elliott and his teenage daughter, Lena, having to say goodbye to cancer stricken wife and mother, Karen. In her last moments of life, Karen confides in Elliott that the daughter he has raised is not his.
The next year becomes a struggle for Elliott and Lena . . . Elliott becomes emotionally distant and wrapped up in not only the loss of the love of his life, but her betrayal. So wrapped up that he not only loses his job, but also distances himself so much from Lena, that he is shocked to find her not only sexually active, but pregnant.
Elliott is now forced to face his emotions and deal with his loss and anger, while reconnecting with his daughter and the rest of the world.
Morgan Parker has done a great job of weaving together a tapestry of characters, all connected through Karen’s life and deception. Elliott must come to terms with discovering who Elena’s biological father is while supporting her pregnancy and rekindling their father / daughter relationship. Sparks also fly for Elliott as he has the chance at a relationship with a younger woman . . . if he is ready to take the risk of opening his heart to love once again.
While this book deals with loss, I found it more of an uplifting story of how a family can reconnect and move on from a loss so deep that it rocks their entire world to living the life that their loved one wished for them.
I give this book 5 Masks! Janine
The story opens with Elliott and his teenage daughter, Lena, having to say goodbye to cancer stricken wife and mother, Karen. In her last moments of life, Karen confides in Elliott that the daughter he has raised is not his.
The next year becomes a struggle for Elliott and Lena . . . Elliott becomes emotionally distant and wrapped up in not only the loss of the love of his life, but her betrayal. So wrapped up that he not only loses his job, but also distances himself so much from Lena, that he is shocked to find her not only sexually active, but pregnant.
Elliott is now forced to face his emotions and deal with his loss and anger, while reconnecting with his daughter and the rest of the world.
Morgan Parker has done a great job of weaving together a tapestry of characters, all connected through Karen’s life and deception. Elliott must come to terms with discovering who Elena’s biological father is while supporting her pregnancy and rekindling their father / daughter relationship. Sparks also fly for Elliott as he has the chance at a relationship with a younger woman . . . if he is ready to take the risk of opening his heart to love once again.
While this book deals with loss, I found it more of an uplifting story of how a family can reconnect and move on from a loss so deep that it rocks their entire world to living the life that their loved one wished for them.
I give this book 5 Masks! Janine
October 1, 2014
What an emotional roller coaster and brilliant love story.
I read in 2 days and am simply blown away. Sometimes in the course of reading LOTS of books, I find one that touches me, emotionally, physically and mentally. This book does it all. It is a story of love, love lost, love found, love of spouse, child, lover. And of new love. And it is thought provoking. What would I do? Faced with my own death, would I have the strength to make an unselfish decision? What if I were faced with the knowledge that the child I loved was not mine? Would I tell?Who? Why? There is so much more. I sobbed, I laughed and I cheered as Elliot, Veronica, and Lena struggle with emotions, secrets, and the truth that finally brings them all to a better place. I truly loved this story and the simple yet complex truths it sets out. I will be looking for more books by Morgan Parker. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
I read in 2 days and am simply blown away. Sometimes in the course of reading LOTS of books, I find one that touches me, emotionally, physically and mentally. This book does it all. It is a story of love, love lost, love found, love of spouse, child, lover. And of new love. And it is thought provoking. What would I do? Faced with my own death, would I have the strength to make an unselfish decision? What if I were faced with the knowledge that the child I loved was not mine? Would I tell?Who? Why? There is so much more. I sobbed, I laughed and I cheered as Elliot, Veronica, and Lena struggle with emotions, secrets, and the truth that finally brings them all to a better place. I truly loved this story and the simple yet complex truths it sets out. I will be looking for more books by Morgan Parker. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
January 17, 2015
I knew from the minute I picked this book up that I was going to love it. It had everything . I had never read a Morgan parker book before and it definitely wont be my last.
Elliot Fitch for once is not a 20 something billionaire but an average guy a forty something dad who is not only coping with the loss of the love of his life but also the fact that she lied to him for 17 years.
You meet his smart mouth 17 year old who ends up pregnant by her hopeless boyfriend and you meet the delivery girl who his frist meeting with is nothing but brilliant.
This story had me in knots laughing but also had me in floods of tears and left me wanting to hug my dad and tell him how much I loved him. This story brings you on a journey of self discovery, love and what happens when you hit rock bottom and the only way is up.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something different to the typical romance.
Its just so good that you wont be able to put it down.
Elliot Fitch for once is not a 20 something billionaire but an average guy a forty something dad who is not only coping with the loss of the love of his life but also the fact that she lied to him for 17 years.
You meet his smart mouth 17 year old who ends up pregnant by her hopeless boyfriend and you meet the delivery girl who his frist meeting with is nothing but brilliant.
This story had me in knots laughing but also had me in floods of tears and left me wanting to hug my dad and tell him how much I loved him. This story brings you on a journey of self discovery, love and what happens when you hit rock bottom and the only way is up.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something different to the typical romance.
Its just so good that you wont be able to put it down.
November 2, 2014
5 Shining Stars for Elliott !!!!!
I can't even begin to express or properly articulate how wonderful and heartwarming this book is! It's the story of a man ( Elliott ) who's wife is dying of cancer. They have, what he considers a perfect love. He has no intention of ever loving again. But right before she passes away she tells him that their 17 year old daughter is not his. He is destroyed not only did he lose his wife but his daughter. Was his entire life a lie?
This book is Elliott's journey. Elliott is what every man should be. A truly good man. Every girl may fantasize about emotional broke Christain Grey but every woman really needs a man like Elliott Fitch !
I highly recommend this book. This is my 4th Morgan Parker book and they keep getting better. You should check out his other work. I promise you won't be disappointed.
I can't even begin to express or properly articulate how wonderful and heartwarming this book is! It's the story of a man ( Elliott ) who's wife is dying of cancer. They have, what he considers a perfect love. He has no intention of ever loving again. But right before she passes away she tells him that their 17 year old daughter is not his. He is destroyed not only did he lose his wife but his daughter. Was his entire life a lie?
This book is Elliott's journey. Elliott is what every man should be. A truly good man. Every girl may fantasize about emotional broke Christain Grey but every woman really needs a man like Elliott Fitch !
I highly recommend this book. This is my 4th Morgan Parker book and they keep getting better. You should check out his other work. I promise you won't be disappointed.
January 11, 2015
Okay, I really didn't like the main character in this book. His wife died, she told him on her deathbed that his daughter wasn't his biological daughter. So he spent the next year having a giant pity party. He neglected his daughter, lost his job, and then finally decided to find the biological father. He hooked up with a delivery woman and then let her do the searching while he decided to get it together with his daughter. Okay, that part was nice. Then something happened where he went back into pity party mode. And really, the use of the "F" bomb was so totally over done. It really spoiled the book for me. He was not a gangster on the street type of character, he was a "white collar" type of guy. . . let's make love, not "F. . . " . . . seriously!!! The ending was a surprise, so that made it worth finishing the book.
September 16, 2014
I had a little bit of trouble getting into this book but once I did, I couldn't put it down! I recommend it to anyone. Elliot was an extremely likeable character, sweet and loving. Karen's logic seemed flawed to me, but I get why she did it.
I don't want to give away any spoilers so good read it yourself!
I don't want to give away any spoilers so good read it yourself!
August 11, 2014
Review to follow closer to release date. Morgan Parker has once again written a brilliant book.
Read
July 8, 2014I cant wait for this one
October 24, 2014
I wanted to know how it would end.
Still don't understand why someone would do what the wife did. I see her actions as heartbreakingly cruel and unnecessary.
Still don't understand why someone would do what the wife did. I see her actions as heartbreakingly cruel and unnecessary.
October 2, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars It will always be Morgan Parker! <3, October 2, 2014
By Amy Clark - See all my reviews
This review is from: Surviving Goodbye (Kindle Edition)
I often wonder if that type of love exists and if it does what are the lengths you would go to for that one person to help them Survive a life without you?
Morgan Parker captured the meaning of unconditional love, devotion & my heart in this book.
If you have read any of Morgan's books which include Non Friction, Hope, Sick Day, then you will know what he writes is Beautiful, Unique & with a profound ability to bring sadness, joy, humour, a smile and a feel good feeling.
Surviving Goodbye takes you through a journey of 3 different types of love, the endless love for his wife, which is shattered by the final words that are passed, words you would never want to hear and can't be taken back, betrayal.
A daughter who is grieving, hurting and lost, who needs her daddy more than ever but she is no longer biologically yours so does unconditional love eventually overcome that no matter what?
An unexpected delivery, brings interest in a women who is a little broken, different and unexpected, who is also willing to give her all!
The book opens up to the Prologue which is the most heartbreakingly Beautiful & Sad Prologue I have EVER read, the emotions you feel are difficult to describe because it causes a flurry of so many! I sat for a while before I began chapter one, letting the realisation of that chapter sink in fully!
The story then begins a year later with Elliott the MC grieving, angry, lost, unreachable and with little answers!
I wont talk to much about the storyline, as you really have to discover what Morgan Parker can do with his writing abilities because they are like no other, but what I will say is that you get caught into a story where you need to know the answers as much as the MC. You're guessing all the way through with an introduction to some fantastic characters who each bring something to the story. The mystery is written in a very clever & believable way and carries along with it many emotions throughout the book, which makes it impossible to put down.
Morgan has this magical ability to capture you, pull you in so deeply that you don't ever want to come out. Simply Brilliant!!
The relationship that begins to develop with his daughter is Beautiful, he shows you that in the end unconditional love will overcome many obstacles and open you up to what really matters. There are some father daughter moments that had me in fits of giggles and also sharing a tear.
In getting through his betrayal & suffering we meet the third main character, Veronica, who is also a little damaged. She is however quirky, fun and the opposite to Elliott, we see a connection, kindness and attraction that begins to grow.
I will leave with one of the favourite parts of this book which is was just after one of the most incredibly touching bedroom scenes I've had the pleasure of reading:
' They're words that I believe' she confessed. ' I always have and always will. When I believe, I never let go. When I believe, I'm in love. Because love inspires words. Well, love and heartache. But heartache is when I get the tattoos that were inspired by the love'
' I'm your biggest what-if, Elliott'
' You are my happy and my sad' then she switched to the other foot, ' my start and my end'. Its all about what love should be.
The person I love should be the only one who can push me to the one extreme of happy and to the other extreme of sad. He is the start of everything and the end of everything, including me, my attention, my days, and my life'
Favourite saying ' Papa Bear'
This leads to the end.........Morgan's Epilogues, sigh, they don't complete you but don't uncomplete you, he's that good!
Morgan Parker will ALWAYS be my ' Go to' Author, he's that Special!
I've been a HUGE Fan of Morgan Parker from the early days of Non Friction and you will not find a writer who is so unique, clever and able to pull so may emotions out of you at one time.
Thank you & please never stop Believing!
September 8, 2014
3.5 stars
You think when your loved one dies… that when the time comes you hope they go peacefully.
That they would have accomplish what they had wanted to accomplish in life. Left somewhat of a mark to the people that they loved.
And that they found that one true soulmate.
Elliott had thought his wife had found an accomplished all that.
Never in Elliott’s wildest dreams did he think his wife Karen was holding a big Secret that would rock his world. Causing him such hatred towards the one person he never thought he could hate.
His wife…
When Elliott woke one morning. He knew that today was the day he had to say goodbye to his wife. The time has come..
He was loosing his wife & he’s daughter Lena was loosing her mother.
Never in his wildest dreams did Elliott think his wife would do what she said she did to him.
A deathbed confession change everything…
That just rocked his already fragile world!
That deathbed confession change the way he thought about his loving wife!
He spent the last year and a half in the state of hatred and confusion towards her. He couldn’t understand why she would do what she said she did to him.
I thought going into this book it was going to be a heartbreak…ugly cry kind of book.
It wasn’t…
I mean it was more of a man hating & loving his dead wife.
And Unintentionally sending him on a wild goose chase.
I felt more bad about what she did to him than anything.
I loved how Elliott was in this book.
He’s was a go with the flow kind of man. Very laid back… It took a lot to get him angry. He was very sarcastic and I love his little comebacks!
“Joffrey with ‘O’ like ‘orgasm'”
I loved that!!
Elliott was finally getting out of a year and a half somewhat depression. He’s finally paying attention to his surroundings. Noticing how estranged his relationship has become with his daughter.
He’s finally opening up to talking to other people.
Veronica the delivery girl. I liked her. I thought she had a perfect attitude towards Elliott. They got each other. She got along really well with Elliotts daughter Lena.
& I love how she helps Elliot sort out the mess his wife left behind.
I wasn’t feeling his daughter Lena in this story…
She always seemed to be popping up at the wrong time. Making demands on her dad.
I don’t know…
It just got on my nerves.
It seem like Elliot couldn’t even get a private moment to himself.
Ok… I was feeling this story up until the 90% mark in the book.
The whole Leanne, Nathan confrontation!!
Ughhh…
Really… If there was ever a time to speak up that would have been the time!! Elliott needed to open his mouth & say it was none of Leanne damn business when she asked him “the question”.
I mean really!!!
Nathan’s involvement in this whole little game Karen set up was weird.
I don’t know… I feel pissed off about it all.
I still don’t know why… Elliotts wife Karen would do all this… Just so he could move on??!!
I’m sorry…
but what was she thinking!! Did she really think things through?? She put the man that she loved through hell!!
And her daughter too!!! Because he wasn’t there for her emotionally for over a year and a half!!
I’m sorry…. a lie that big… Is hard to move past.
You can’t…
You can’t even confront the person that told you that lie because that person is no longer here!
This line in the book sums it all up for me.
“I hated the whirlwind of hatred that Karen had imposed on me.”
I hated Karen too…
Overall this was an okay book. I thought the epilogue in this book was pretty nice.
Would I recommend this book to people yes… I would.
**ARC provided by author for an honest review**
-Michelle
You think when your loved one dies… that when the time comes you hope they go peacefully.
That they would have accomplish what they had wanted to accomplish in life. Left somewhat of a mark to the people that they loved.
And that they found that one true soulmate.
Elliott had thought his wife had found an accomplished all that.
Never in Elliott’s wildest dreams did he think his wife Karen was holding a big Secret that would rock his world. Causing him such hatred towards the one person he never thought he could hate.
His wife…
When Elliott woke one morning. He knew that today was the day he had to say goodbye to his wife. The time has come..
He was loosing his wife & he’s daughter Lena was loosing her mother.
Never in his wildest dreams did Elliott think his wife would do what she said she did to him.
A deathbed confession change everything…
That just rocked his already fragile world!
That deathbed confession change the way he thought about his loving wife!
He spent the last year and a half in the state of hatred and confusion towards her. He couldn’t understand why she would do what she said she did to him.
I thought going into this book it was going to be a heartbreak…ugly cry kind of book.
It wasn’t…
I mean it was more of a man hating & loving his dead wife.
And Unintentionally sending him on a wild goose chase.
I felt more bad about what she did to him than anything.
I loved how Elliott was in this book.
He’s was a go with the flow kind of man. Very laid back… It took a lot to get him angry. He was very sarcastic and I love his little comebacks!
“Joffrey with ‘O’ like ‘orgasm'”
I loved that!!
Elliott was finally getting out of a year and a half somewhat depression. He’s finally paying attention to his surroundings. Noticing how estranged his relationship has become with his daughter.
He’s finally opening up to talking to other people.
Veronica the delivery girl. I liked her. I thought she had a perfect attitude towards Elliott. They got each other. She got along really well with Elliotts daughter Lena.
& I love how she helps Elliot sort out the mess his wife left behind.
I wasn’t feeling his daughter Lena in this story…
She always seemed to be popping up at the wrong time. Making demands on her dad.
I don’t know…
It just got on my nerves.
It seem like Elliot couldn’t even get a private moment to himself.
Ok… I was feeling this story up until the 90% mark in the book.
The whole Leanne, Nathan confrontation!!
Ughhh…
Really… If there was ever a time to speak up that would have been the time!! Elliott needed to open his mouth & say it was none of Leanne damn business when she asked him “the question”.
I mean really!!!
Nathan’s involvement in this whole little game Karen set up was weird.
I don’t know… I feel pissed off about it all.
I still don’t know why… Elliotts wife Karen would do all this… Just so he could move on??!!
I’m sorry…
but what was she thinking!! Did she really think things through?? She put the man that she loved through hell!!
And her daughter too!!! Because he wasn’t there for her emotionally for over a year and a half!!
I’m sorry…. a lie that big… Is hard to move past.
You can’t…
You can’t even confront the person that told you that lie because that person is no longer here!
This line in the book sums it all up for me.
“I hated the whirlwind of hatred that Karen had imposed on me.”
I hated Karen too…
Overall this was an okay book. I thought the epilogue in this book was pretty nice.
Would I recommend this book to people yes… I would.
**ARC provided by author for an honest review**
-Michelle
September 8, 2014
3.5 stars
You think when your loved one dies… that when the time comes you hope they go peacefully.
That they would have accomplish what they had wanted to accomplish in life. Left somewhat of a mark to the people that they loved.
And that they found that one true soulmate.
Elliott had thought his wife had found an accomplished all that.
Never in Elliott’s wildest dreams did he think his wife Karen was holding a big Secret that would rock his world. Causing him such hatred towards the one person he never thought he could hate.
His wife…
When Elliott woke one morning. He knew that today was the day he had to say goodbye to his wife. The time has come..
He was loosing his wife & he’s daughter Lena was loosing her mother.
Never in his wildest dreams did Elliott think his wife would do what she said she did to him.
A deathbed confession change everything…
That just rocked his already fragile world!
That deathbed confession change the way he thought about his loving wife!
He spent the last year and a half in the state of hatred and confusion towards her. He couldn’t understand why she would do what she said she did to him.
I thought going into this book it was going to be a heartbreak…ugly cry kind of book.
It wasn’t…
I mean it was more of a man hating & loving his dead wife.
And Unintentionally sending him on a wild goose chase.
I felt more bad about what she did to him than anything.
I loved how Elliott was in this book.
He’s was a go with the flow kind of man. Very laid back… It took a lot to get him angry. He was very sarcastic and I love his little comebacks!
“Joffrey with ‘O’ like ‘orgasm'”
I loved that!!
Elliott was finally getting out of a year and a half somewhat depression. He’s finally paying attention to his surroundings. Noticing how estranged his relationship has become with his daughter.
He’s finally opening up to talking to other people.
Veronica the delivery girl. I liked her. I thought she had a perfect attitude towards Elliott. They got each other. She got along really well with Elliotts daughter Lena.
& I love how she helps Elliot sort out the mess his wife left behind.
I wasn’t feeling his daughter Lena in this story…
She always seemed to be popping up at the wrong time. Making demands on her dad.
I don’t know…
It just got on my nerves.
It seem like Elliot couldn’t even get a private moment to himself.
Ok… I was feeling this story up until the 90% mark in the book.
The whole Leanne, Nathan confrontation!!
Ughhh…
Really… If there was ever a time to speak up that would have been the time!! Elliott needed to open his mouth & say it was none of Leanne damn business when she asked him “the question”.
I mean really!!!
Nathan’s involvement in this whole little game Karen set up was weird.
I don’t know… I feel pissed off about it all.
I still don’t know why… Elliotts wife Karen would do all this… Just so he could move on??!!
I’m sorry…
but what was she thinking!! Did she really think things through?? She put the man that she loved through hell!!
And her daughter too!!! Because he wasn’t there for her emotionally for over a year and a half!!
I’m sorry…. a lie that big… Is hard to move past.
You can’t…
You can’t even confront the person that told you that lie because that person is no longer here!
This line in the book sums it all up for me.
“I hated the whirlwind of hatred that Karen had imposed on me.”
I hated Karen too…
Overall this was an okay book. I thought the epilogue in this book was pretty nice.
Would I recommend this book to people yes… I would.
**ARC provided by author for an honest review**
You think when your loved one dies… that when the time comes you hope they go peacefully.
That they would have accomplish what they had wanted to accomplish in life. Left somewhat of a mark to the people that they loved.
And that they found that one true soulmate.
Elliott had thought his wife had found an accomplished all that.
Never in Elliott’s wildest dreams did he think his wife Karen was holding a big Secret that would rock his world. Causing him such hatred towards the one person he never thought he could hate.
His wife…
When Elliott woke one morning. He knew that today was the day he had to say goodbye to his wife. The time has come..
He was loosing his wife & he’s daughter Lena was loosing her mother.
Never in his wildest dreams did Elliott think his wife would do what she said she did to him.
A deathbed confession change everything…
That just rocked his already fragile world!
That deathbed confession change the way he thought about his loving wife!
He spent the last year and a half in the state of hatred and confusion towards her. He couldn’t understand why she would do what she said she did to him.
I thought going into this book it was going to be a heartbreak…ugly cry kind of book.
It wasn’t…
I mean it was more of a man hating & loving his dead wife.
And Unintentionally sending him on a wild goose chase.
I felt more bad about what she did to him than anything.
I loved how Elliott was in this book.
He’s was a go with the flow kind of man. Very laid back… It took a lot to get him angry. He was very sarcastic and I love his little comebacks!
“Joffrey with ‘O’ like ‘orgasm'”
I loved that!!
Elliott was finally getting out of a year and a half somewhat depression. He’s finally paying attention to his surroundings. Noticing how estranged his relationship has become with his daughter.
He’s finally opening up to talking to other people.
Veronica the delivery girl. I liked her. I thought she had a perfect attitude towards Elliott. They got each other. She got along really well with Elliotts daughter Lena.
& I love how she helps Elliot sort out the mess his wife left behind.
I wasn’t feeling his daughter Lena in this story…
She always seemed to be popping up at the wrong time. Making demands on her dad.
I don’t know…
It just got on my nerves.
It seem like Elliot couldn’t even get a private moment to himself.
Ok… I was feeling this story up until the 90% mark in the book.
The whole Leanne, Nathan confrontation!!
Ughhh…
Really… If there was ever a time to speak up that would have been the time!! Elliott needed to open his mouth & say it was none of Leanne damn business when she asked him “the question”.
I mean really!!!
Nathan’s involvement in this whole little game Karen set up was weird.
I don’t know… I feel pissed off about it all.
I still don’t know why… Elliotts wife Karen would do all this… Just so he could move on??!!
I’m sorry…
but what was she thinking!! Did she really think things through?? She put the man that she loved through hell!!
And her daughter too!!! Because he wasn’t there for her emotionally for over a year and a half!!
I’m sorry…. a lie that big… Is hard to move past.
You can’t…
You can’t even confront the person that told you that lie because that person is no longer here!
This line in the book sums it all up for me.
“I hated the whirlwind of hatred that Karen had imposed on me.”
I hated Karen too…
Overall this was an okay book. I thought the epilogue in this book was pretty nice.
Would I recommend this book to people yes… I would.
**ARC provided by author for an honest review**
October 21, 2014
Original Blog Post: eARC Review + #Free ebook #Giveaway: Surviving Goodbye by Morgan Parker
We would like to thank author Morgan Parker for donating an ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye, to one lucky commentator who gets chosen. Make sure to leave a comment below to get a free ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye.
When I got through reading Surviving Goodbye, my first thought was: if my husband would ever try to do something like this to me, I would first get him revived, and then kill him! Morgan Parker, how could you have ever imagined a storyline like this?
Elliot Fitch loves his wife to distraction and adores his little girl. His two women are his world, yet, through circumstances called life, he loses first one, then the other.
He knew Karen was dying of cancer and devoted everything to her. Then on her deathbed, she tells him her deepest, darkest secret. The other love of his life, his daughter, actually isn't his. She just pretended so that she could give him the family he'd always wanted. Before she dies, his all-consuming love turns into the deepest hate and depression. How can he mourn someone who's betrayed him in the worst way?
Yet, he has to know. Who is Elena's father? Despite the fact that he isn't her biological father, she still deserves the truth and a relationship with whoever it was that fathered her. While he searches for evidence, he notices that his daughter has changed in a big way.
Somehow, he's lost her, too, during the time he was depressed. Who is this person that has moved into the basement and has boys sleeping over? Why are there adult toys in her room? He's living with a stranger, which kind of makes him believe he isn't related to her at all!
Then Elena drops another bomb on him - she's pregnant and her boyfriend is pretending she doesn't exist. His love for his daughter wins out and Elliot decides to support her throughout her pregnancy. The search now carries new meaning and has gained a sense of urgency. He doubles his efforts and finds something he doesn't expect: hope and peace.
I could feel Elliot's self-doubt and loathing throughout the novel. Add his angst about how his wife could have fooled him so successfully, I wondered why he hadn't even thought of committing suicide. Yet there are some light-hearted moments so not every part is dreary and sad. I especially love how he describes his wife's ex-boyfriend who had some, er, distinctive body parts.
By the end of Surviving Goodbye, I do understand how Karen could do that to him; but Morgan Parker, there is still that sense of twisted in her logic! I refuse to elaborate on the reason why she confessed but I urge everyone to read this beautiful book in order to find out.
To get a chance to win an ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye, leave a comment HERE. We will randomly pick 1 lucky commentator and Morgan Parker will email them their ebook version of their choice.
Game ends Oct 28.
We would like to thank author Morgan Parker for donating an ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye, to one lucky commentator who gets chosen. Make sure to leave a comment below to get a free ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye.
When I got through reading Surviving Goodbye, my first thought was: if my husband would ever try to do something like this to me, I would first get him revived, and then kill him! Morgan Parker, how could you have ever imagined a storyline like this?
Elliot Fitch loves his wife to distraction and adores his little girl. His two women are his world, yet, through circumstances called life, he loses first one, then the other.
He knew Karen was dying of cancer and devoted everything to her. Then on her deathbed, she tells him her deepest, darkest secret. The other love of his life, his daughter, actually isn't his. She just pretended so that she could give him the family he'd always wanted. Before she dies, his all-consuming love turns into the deepest hate and depression. How can he mourn someone who's betrayed him in the worst way?
Yet, he has to know. Who is Elena's father? Despite the fact that he isn't her biological father, she still deserves the truth and a relationship with whoever it was that fathered her. While he searches for evidence, he notices that his daughter has changed in a big way.
Somehow, he's lost her, too, during the time he was depressed. Who is this person that has moved into the basement and has boys sleeping over? Why are there adult toys in her room? He's living with a stranger, which kind of makes him believe he isn't related to her at all!
Then Elena drops another bomb on him - she's pregnant and her boyfriend is pretending she doesn't exist. His love for his daughter wins out and Elliot decides to support her throughout her pregnancy. The search now carries new meaning and has gained a sense of urgency. He doubles his efforts and finds something he doesn't expect: hope and peace.
I could feel Elliot's self-doubt and loathing throughout the novel. Add his angst about how his wife could have fooled him so successfully, I wondered why he hadn't even thought of committing suicide. Yet there are some light-hearted moments so not every part is dreary and sad. I especially love how he describes his wife's ex-boyfriend who had some, er, distinctive body parts.
By the end of Surviving Goodbye, I do understand how Karen could do that to him; but Morgan Parker, there is still that sense of twisted in her logic! I refuse to elaborate on the reason why she confessed but I urge everyone to read this beautiful book in order to find out.
To get a chance to win an ebook copy of Surviving Goodbye, leave a comment HERE. We will randomly pick 1 lucky commentator and Morgan Parker will email them their ebook version of their choice.
Game ends Oct 28.
September 10, 2014
Don't miss reading this book, I would hate for it to be the "biggest what-if of your life”
What do you do when the love of your life delivers devastating news that your daughter wasn't yours right before she dies? How do you move on from that? Well for Elliot Finch it was with a lot of hatred and could you blame him? I would be angry with that news too! Although that would be odd for a female, but for a man I can only imagine what that would do to a person.
This story is about being the father a daughter needs and standing by her no matter what. It's about realizing that DNA is just that, DNA, but it has no bearing on how you love, have loved, and will continue to love your children. If you raise them, care for them, believe in them, are there for them, then does it really matter whose DNA they have? They truly belong to you! This brings me to one of my favorite quotes of the book.
“You can’t quit your kids. Or your grandkids. When you love someone like I love you – minus the peeing with the door open and your inability to flush a toilet –“ she chuckled at that, a good sign, “you can’t quit them. It’s impossible, like putting two positive ends of a magnet together and wondering why they can’t stick.”
It’s also about a man’s fight to love again. The blue haired beauty, Veronica is a gorgeous younger woman who grabs the attention on Elliot. There are times that both of them struggle with the age gap, wondering if they can really make it together but in the end it is all about love. Love knows no boundaries, and age shouldn't be a boundary you put on a relationship.
You will come to a section in this book where Elliot tries his hand at writing; it is a very interesting concept. One I am sure most women would enjoy.
The end (or close to the end) was a complete WTF moment, I was so mad!! I won't spoil it for you but I am sure you will understand once you read this amazing story.
Morgan Parker brings his fantastic and witty writing style to this book. I loved how he brought his name and books into the story along with, his favorite Disney movie (I assume it’s his favorite, “fu*$er’ll melt in the summer”) and the Blue Jays. It made me giggle! I was worried there wasn't going to be any famous Morgan Parker humor in this book due to the serious subject matter, but he did a great job at bringing his humor into it.
I will close out this review with this...I love this book!! I will buy it in paperback (if available) because I know I will want to keep this story forever! Don't miss out on this book and be left with the "what-if" that could come along with that!
What do you do when the love of your life delivers devastating news that your daughter wasn't yours right before she dies? How do you move on from that? Well for Elliot Finch it was with a lot of hatred and could you blame him? I would be angry with that news too! Although that would be odd for a female, but for a man I can only imagine what that would do to a person.
This story is about being the father a daughter needs and standing by her no matter what. It's about realizing that DNA is just that, DNA, but it has no bearing on how you love, have loved, and will continue to love your children. If you raise them, care for them, believe in them, are there for them, then does it really matter whose DNA they have? They truly belong to you! This brings me to one of my favorite quotes of the book.
“You can’t quit your kids. Or your grandkids. When you love someone like I love you – minus the peeing with the door open and your inability to flush a toilet –“ she chuckled at that, a good sign, “you can’t quit them. It’s impossible, like putting two positive ends of a magnet together and wondering why they can’t stick.”
It’s also about a man’s fight to love again. The blue haired beauty, Veronica is a gorgeous younger woman who grabs the attention on Elliot. There are times that both of them struggle with the age gap, wondering if they can really make it together but in the end it is all about love. Love knows no boundaries, and age shouldn't be a boundary you put on a relationship.
You will come to a section in this book where Elliot tries his hand at writing; it is a very interesting concept. One I am sure most women would enjoy.
The end (or close to the end) was a complete WTF moment, I was so mad!! I won't spoil it for you but I am sure you will understand once you read this amazing story.
Morgan Parker brings his fantastic and witty writing style to this book. I loved how he brought his name and books into the story along with, his favorite Disney movie (I assume it’s his favorite, “fu*$er’ll melt in the summer”) and the Blue Jays. It made me giggle! I was worried there wasn't going to be any famous Morgan Parker humor in this book due to the serious subject matter, but he did a great job at bringing his humor into it.
I will close out this review with this...I love this book!! I will buy it in paperback (if available) because I know I will want to keep this story forever! Don't miss out on this book and be left with the "what-if" that could come along with that!
September 9, 2014
"Goodbyes are like true love, they last forever"
This is such a beautiful story of love and letting go.
Sometimes you need a little push to let go and live again. What if the love of your life died? Would you be able to move on? Live again? Love again?
This is what Elliott is faced with. He is losing the love of his life and he doesn't know how life will go on without her. Whether it's the love of your life, a brother, a sister or a parent or even worse than any of those a child. Death is a final goodbye and no one ever wants to face it. To be that person standing there with that blank look on your face wishing that (insert whoever you lost here) was here with you right at this moment. I know death; I am sure many many people who read this do to. This book is about how he has lost his wife and how he finally begins to slowly open up again, how he loses a year with his daughter. Yes we know that happens during death. When I lost someone I love dearly I lost time with my daughter (not a year but a few days) I was so wrapped up in my own emotions. This is what happens to Elliot as the reader you may get mad at him and think what the hell dude! Your child needs you but when you live it, it is entirely different. He finally comes around and thank god! Sometimes you need that kick in the butt and that is what his wife gave him. He didn't know it at the time...but you will understand when you read it.
Elliott’s daughter Elena is 17 and has had to deal with her mother’s death alone for almost a year. So she turns to her boyfriend and since her father is too wrapped up in his depression she does what most teenagers do. Eventually her dad comes around and now she has to tell him what is going on with her and how Jeffrey (the boyfriend) with an “o” as in orgasm has left her hanging on her own. Will her dad understand? Will he support her or disown her?
You will cry, you will get mad and you will laugh! I promise some of the things that happen here are totally funny! I laughed out loud a couple of times. I loved this story. I love the characters, the flow of the story line PERFECT! I promise there is a HEA!!
I say give it a chance! I did and totally loved it! Happy reading!!
This is such a beautiful story of love and letting go.
Sometimes you need a little push to let go and live again. What if the love of your life died? Would you be able to move on? Live again? Love again?
This is what Elliott is faced with. He is losing the love of his life and he doesn't know how life will go on without her. Whether it's the love of your life, a brother, a sister or a parent or even worse than any of those a child. Death is a final goodbye and no one ever wants to face it. To be that person standing there with that blank look on your face wishing that (insert whoever you lost here) was here with you right at this moment. I know death; I am sure many many people who read this do to. This book is about how he has lost his wife and how he finally begins to slowly open up again, how he loses a year with his daughter. Yes we know that happens during death. When I lost someone I love dearly I lost time with my daughter (not a year but a few days) I was so wrapped up in my own emotions. This is what happens to Elliot as the reader you may get mad at him and think what the hell dude! Your child needs you but when you live it, it is entirely different. He finally comes around and thank god! Sometimes you need that kick in the butt and that is what his wife gave him. He didn't know it at the time...but you will understand when you read it.
Elliott’s daughter Elena is 17 and has had to deal with her mother’s death alone for almost a year. So she turns to her boyfriend and since her father is too wrapped up in his depression she does what most teenagers do. Eventually her dad comes around and now she has to tell him what is going on with her and how Jeffrey (the boyfriend) with an “o” as in orgasm has left her hanging on her own. Will her dad understand? Will he support her or disown her?
You will cry, you will get mad and you will laugh! I promise some of the things that happen here are totally funny! I laughed out loud a couple of times. I loved this story. I love the characters, the flow of the story line PERFECT! I promise there is a HEA!!
I say give it a chance! I did and totally loved it! Happy reading!!
October 29, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Morgan Parker’s Surviving Goodbye is a deviation in style and topic from his prior novels. I was very pleasantly surprised by his latest book. I am biased in that I generally gravitate to female authors, and there were several times while reading Surviving Goodbye that I thought, “only a guy would write that” or “that’s rather coarsely put”. For example, each time the main character, Elliot Finch, referred to his recently deceased wife as a cheating whore, I was taken aback. However, overall, it was a fabulous read. I was amazed at the sweetness and sentimentality that was written into the story.
Elliot Finch says that he is hunting for his daughter’s biological father for her sake, however, I don’t buy it. He is looking for the man with whom his wife cheated. Throughout the book, I was distracted by my wondering if all men really thought the way that Elliot Finch did in Surviving Goodbye. His comparison of himself to his wife’s former lovers was a bit humorous, and his retrospection of his daughter, Lena, and what she meant to him was very loving and sweet.
I found the premise of the story interesting, but not wholly believable. The plot was very well paced. There were no unnecessary, flowery descriptions, but there was more than adequate description of people and scenes that I was immersed in the lives of the characters while reading. Mr. Parker has done an incredible job of balancing Elliot Finch. Elliot can be sweet, sentimental, protective and thoughtful, and then turn around and make a quintessentially “Men are from Mars” comment. The primary characters are well developed, the secondary characters are in place mostly as a means for Elliot to glean more information on his quest to find Lena’s biological father. The story wraps up nicely after following its twisted path to Elliot’s enlightenment.
Surviving Goodbye by Morgan Parker was a delightful read that I highly recommend.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
Morgan Parker’s Surviving Goodbye is a deviation in style and topic from his prior novels. I was very pleasantly surprised by his latest book. I am biased in that I generally gravitate to female authors, and there were several times while reading Surviving Goodbye that I thought, “only a guy would write that” or “that’s rather coarsely put”. For example, each time the main character, Elliot Finch, referred to his recently deceased wife as a cheating whore, I was taken aback. However, overall, it was a fabulous read. I was amazed at the sweetness and sentimentality that was written into the story.
Elliot Finch says that he is hunting for his daughter’s biological father for her sake, however, I don’t buy it. He is looking for the man with whom his wife cheated. Throughout the book, I was distracted by my wondering if all men really thought the way that Elliot Finch did in Surviving Goodbye. His comparison of himself to his wife’s former lovers was a bit humorous, and his retrospection of his daughter, Lena, and what she meant to him was very loving and sweet.
I found the premise of the story interesting, but not wholly believable. The plot was very well paced. There were no unnecessary, flowery descriptions, but there was more than adequate description of people and scenes that I was immersed in the lives of the characters while reading. Mr. Parker has done an incredible job of balancing Elliot Finch. Elliot can be sweet, sentimental, protective and thoughtful, and then turn around and make a quintessentially “Men are from Mars” comment. The primary characters are well developed, the secondary characters are in place mostly as a means for Elliot to glean more information on his quest to find Lena’s biological father. The story wraps up nicely after following its twisted path to Elliot’s enlightenment.
Surviving Goodbye by Morgan Parker was a delightful read that I highly recommend.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
August 22, 2014
Morgan Parker's talent is beyond words. His ability to create a world that not only pulls you in and keeps you there but touches you in a way that leaves you staring at the last page in awe is just astonishing. Every single book that I've read of his has left me with a plethora of feelings and he never, ever disappoints.
Surviving Goodbye is a story of immense love, hatred, healing, and the power of love. This book shows us the power that love has over us, it's strong, real, and has the ability to make us do all sorts of things.
Elliot Fitch looses his wife, Karen, to cancer. Before she dies though, she tells him a secret. A secret that she's had for years, one that will not only test him as a person, but will test everything he's known.
After a year of barely living, just going through the motions after the shock of Karen's deathbed confession, Elliot finally gets to a point where he's able to function again. Elena (Lena), his 18 year old daughter, drops another bomb on him - a bomb that suddenly gives him a reason to live again. Well that and he's gotten the attention of the hot, younger, delivery girl with a blue streak in her hair, Veronica.
Elliot embarks on a journey for answers. He questions a lot on the way and is met with truths that he's forgotten about, things about his deceased wife that hes forgotten in light of her confession.
When he finally gets the answer that he's searching for - the power of Karen's love shows itself in a way that no one expects.
This is an amazing book. I loved watching Elliot heal. I loved his relationship with his Lena and I also loved how Veronica was able to not only get him out of his shell but help him open up again.
If it's not obvious, I give Surviving Goodbye 5 stars. I will always read anything that Morgan Parker puts out, no synopsis required. This one is in my top reads of 2014, no doubt about it!
Surviving Goodbye is a story of immense love, hatred, healing, and the power of love. This book shows us the power that love has over us, it's strong, real, and has the ability to make us do all sorts of things.
Elliot Fitch looses his wife, Karen, to cancer. Before she dies though, she tells him a secret. A secret that she's had for years, one that will not only test him as a person, but will test everything he's known.
After a year of barely living, just going through the motions after the shock of Karen's deathbed confession, Elliot finally gets to a point where he's able to function again. Elena (Lena), his 18 year old daughter, drops another bomb on him - a bomb that suddenly gives him a reason to live again. Well that and he's gotten the attention of the hot, younger, delivery girl with a blue streak in her hair, Veronica.
Elliot embarks on a journey for answers. He questions a lot on the way and is met with truths that he's forgotten about, things about his deceased wife that hes forgotten in light of her confession.
When he finally gets the answer that he's searching for - the power of Karen's love shows itself in a way that no one expects.
This is an amazing book. I loved watching Elliot heal. I loved his relationship with his Lena and I also loved how Veronica was able to not only get him out of his shell but help him open up again.
If it's not obvious, I give Surviving Goodbye 5 stars. I will always read anything that Morgan Parker puts out, no synopsis required. This one is in my top reads of 2014, no doubt about it!
August 25, 2014
Surviving Goodbye was my first read by Morgan Parker and I was pleasantly surprised. The fact that emotions hit me like a ton of bricks at 5% was a nod that this was going to be a good book. It drew me in completely and made me question everything I thought I knew about love… true love.
Elliot last moments with his terminally ill wife on her death bed ripped my heart out. Her confession that he wasn’t their daughter, Elena’s, biological father turned his life upside down and sent him spiraling into a painful depression. His hatred takes control of his life causing him to neglect Elena, his job and his life.
One year later…
Elena is a typical seventeen year old girl discovering her sexuality and trying to find her place in life as a high school senior. Elliot finally takes notice when he is forced to signed for the delivery of a sex ‘wedge’ for her. The delivery woman, Veronica, pesters him about the wedge and something about her catches his eye. Morgan’s humor and wittiness comes alive when Elena announces that she is pregnant and he continues to run into Veronica around town, including the OBGYN office of his daughter. Giggles will ensue.
Morgan has this incredible way of making you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom and then he pulls you back out by weaving a story that keeps you guessing. I was entertained and intrigued as Elliot continued to search for Elena’s biological father. Just when I thought the puzzle was coming together, the piece didn’t fit. It was wonderfully frustrating… I never thought I’d use those words together, but after finishing Surviving Goodbye they fit perfectly.
This book took me on a journey I didn’t expect. It was brilliantly written and the story is one that delivered a message that was incredibly powerful. It made me think. It left me feeling at peace. It was a pleasant surprise.
Bravo Morgan! I loved this book and the message you delivered. Five amazing stars!!!
Elliot last moments with his terminally ill wife on her death bed ripped my heart out. Her confession that he wasn’t their daughter, Elena’s, biological father turned his life upside down and sent him spiraling into a painful depression. His hatred takes control of his life causing him to neglect Elena, his job and his life.
One year later…
Elena is a typical seventeen year old girl discovering her sexuality and trying to find her place in life as a high school senior. Elliot finally takes notice when he is forced to signed for the delivery of a sex ‘wedge’ for her. The delivery woman, Veronica, pesters him about the wedge and something about her catches his eye. Morgan’s humor and wittiness comes alive when Elena announces that she is pregnant and he continues to run into Veronica around town, including the OBGYN office of his daughter. Giggles will ensue.
Morgan has this incredible way of making you feel like you’ve hit rock bottom and then he pulls you back out by weaving a story that keeps you guessing. I was entertained and intrigued as Elliot continued to search for Elena’s biological father. Just when I thought the puzzle was coming together, the piece didn’t fit. It was wonderfully frustrating… I never thought I’d use those words together, but after finishing Surviving Goodbye they fit perfectly.
This book took me on a journey I didn’t expect. It was brilliantly written and the story is one that delivered a message that was incredibly powerful. It made me think. It left me feeling at peace. It was a pleasant surprise.
Bravo Morgan! I loved this book and the message you delivered. Five amazing stars!!!
September 19, 2014
It is not every day that I read a book and I'm only 60 pages in when I want to recommend it to people to read. In fact that list of books is small. They deserve more than Five-stars and an A+. These are the books that stick with you. They touch you in a way that you feel you can't really express it in words. You want your friends and anyone you know who loves books to read this book because, that is the only way to really grasp how special the book is.
Surviving Goodbye by Morgan Parker is one of these books. It has been a long time since I was so invested in a book that I took my time to read. I didn't want to rush it. I wanted to drink in every word. Parker's story about Elliot Finch, a man who finds out that he is not the biological father of his daughter on his wife's death bed is a brilliant story. Elliott spends the next year depressed and angry at his wife. How could someone he loved so much do this to him? He makes it his mission to find out the truth about his daughter's biological father. The mission becomes more urgent for him when his 17 year-old daughter Elena, announces she pregnant. During this crazy time for him he meets delivery driver Veronica, a young woman who shows an interest in Elliot and offers to help out him out in his search. Along the way, Veronica might just be the thing he needs to start living again.
What happens over 300 pages is a story you are never going to forget, with an ending that I am still thinking about weeks later. Morgan Parker masterfully weaves a story that will make you feel a spectrum of emotions. You will get angry, laugh, cry, love, and have hope. His characters are smart, witty, funny and you will fall in love with them. Surviving Goodbye is a beautiful and breathtaking story that I'm going to think about for a long time. So Bravo to you Morgan Parker, on writing a book that is perfect to this reader.
Surviving Goodbye by Morgan Parker is one of these books. It has been a long time since I was so invested in a book that I took my time to read. I didn't want to rush it. I wanted to drink in every word. Parker's story about Elliot Finch, a man who finds out that he is not the biological father of his daughter on his wife's death bed is a brilliant story. Elliott spends the next year depressed and angry at his wife. How could someone he loved so much do this to him? He makes it his mission to find out the truth about his daughter's biological father. The mission becomes more urgent for him when his 17 year-old daughter Elena, announces she pregnant. During this crazy time for him he meets delivery driver Veronica, a young woman who shows an interest in Elliot and offers to help out him out in his search. Along the way, Veronica might just be the thing he needs to start living again.
What happens over 300 pages is a story you are never going to forget, with an ending that I am still thinking about weeks later. Morgan Parker masterfully weaves a story that will make you feel a spectrum of emotions. You will get angry, laugh, cry, love, and have hope. His characters are smart, witty, funny and you will fall in love with them. Surviving Goodbye is a beautiful and breathtaking story that I'm going to think about for a long time. So Bravo to you Morgan Parker, on writing a book that is perfect to this reader.
August 29, 2014
The synopsis of this story is what got to me and I was very intrigued to read it. I have read several books by Morgan and he hasn't disappointed me yet so I knew that this one would be good.
We meet Elliot who has lost his wife, Karen. On her deathbed, she tells him a major secret that just shatters his world. A year later, he is still harboring feelings over what his wife has told. He can't seem to work and does not get an award for father of the year since he shuts out his daughter. Now, his daughter Elena (Lena) tells him that she is pregnant and shakes up Elliot's world even more. But Elliot then decides he must do right by Lena and out he goes to find her real father while helping with her pregnancy. Now through this process, he meets a delivery woman named Veronica. They have a great rapport and soon she is helping him with this quest. But as the story progresses, things begin to change. Will Elliot be able to do right for his daughter and will he finally be able to move on and put the past to rest?
I liked Elliot. He was such a sweet guy. You just felt for him with what he had to go through. But for Lena, he wanted to change and do right by her. With the help of Veronica, we see the change that begins to happen in Elliot, in his feelings and demeanor. He becomes a better father and a better man. There were some twists that I was not expecting but it made the story that much more interesting. The writing and plot were remarkable and I was invested until the very end. It is truly brilliant and should be read. If you have read a Morgan Parker book then you will like this. I really enjoyed this book!
We meet Elliot who has lost his wife, Karen. On her deathbed, she tells him a major secret that just shatters his world. A year later, he is still harboring feelings over what his wife has told. He can't seem to work and does not get an award for father of the year since he shuts out his daughter. Now, his daughter Elena (Lena) tells him that she is pregnant and shakes up Elliot's world even more. But Elliot then decides he must do right by Lena and out he goes to find her real father while helping with her pregnancy. Now through this process, he meets a delivery woman named Veronica. They have a great rapport and soon she is helping him with this quest. But as the story progresses, things begin to change. Will Elliot be able to do right for his daughter and will he finally be able to move on and put the past to rest?
I liked Elliot. He was such a sweet guy. You just felt for him with what he had to go through. But for Lena, he wanted to change and do right by her. With the help of Veronica, we see the change that begins to happen in Elliot, in his feelings and demeanor. He becomes a better father and a better man. There were some twists that I was not expecting but it made the story that much more interesting. The writing and plot were remarkable and I was invested until the very end. It is truly brilliant and should be read. If you have read a Morgan Parker book then you will like this. I really enjoyed this book!
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