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The Goodbyes
The girl who inspired his songs may only have hours to live. A snow storm and two hundred miles separate a rock star from his chance to say goodbye.
The Goodbyes is a moving and realistic account of the strength of an unbreakable bond, the anguish of unrequited feelings, and the wisdom attained through the highs and lows of triumph and tragedy. Told through the unique prose of debut author Leslie Welch, this story aims for the core of our emotions.
Webb Turner grew up in a seemingly idyllic Pennsylvania town, tortured by a troubled household. His young life is turned upside down by the exciting, magnetic, and wild girl next door, Bree. They keep each other at arm's length their whole lives, however, dancing around the issue of their unresolved feelings while Bree's life steadily spirals out of control.
In the meantime, Webb's life is on a different trajectory. He escapes the small town to become a globetrotting rock music sensation, with a new romantic interest on his mind and the past left in the rear-view mirror—until he hears that Bree is dying. This shocking news unleashes a torrent of unresolved angst that won't be dammed until Webb drops everything and everybody mid-tour to undertake a dangerous drive through a blizzard to be by Bree's side, just for one last chance to say his final farewell.
With compelling characters, an unflinchingly realistic small-town setting, and emotionally sensitive prose, author Leslie Welch weaves a story that lingers in the mind long after the cover is closed.
The Goodbyes is a moving and realistic account of the strength of an unbreakable bond, the anguish of unrequited feelings, and the wisdom attained through the highs and lows of triumph and tragedy. Told through the unique prose of debut author Leslie Welch, this story aims for the core of our emotions.
Webb Turner grew up in a seemingly idyllic Pennsylvania town, tortured by a troubled household. His young life is turned upside down by the exciting, magnetic, and wild girl next door, Bree. They keep each other at arm's length their whole lives, however, dancing around the issue of their unresolved feelings while Bree's life steadily spirals out of control.
In the meantime, Webb's life is on a different trajectory. He escapes the small town to become a globetrotting rock music sensation, with a new romantic interest on his mind and the past left in the rear-view mirror—until he hears that Bree is dying. This shocking news unleashes a torrent of unresolved angst that won't be dammed until Webb drops everything and everybody mid-tour to undertake a dangerous drive through a blizzard to be by Bree's side, just for one last chance to say his final farewell.
With compelling characters, an unflinchingly realistic small-town setting, and emotionally sensitive prose, author Leslie Welch weaves a story that lingers in the mind long after the cover is closed.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
226 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2016
53 people want to read
About the author
Leslie J. Welch
1 book9 followersBorn in Toledo, Ohio and raised in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Leslie spent most of her youth concocting elaborate stories. Her high school English teacher encouraged her to turn these creative lies into creative fiction.
By some miracle, her writing skills persuaded Penn State University to accept her. Between bartending shifts, she studied Fiction Writing and Communications.
Today, Leslie writes at least a thousand words a day on DC Metro orange line trains. Most of them perish behind the delete button. She co-wrote her first book in Harrisburg hotel rooms and diners with her best friend.
When she's not off exploring the world (or getting caught in irons on Roanoke Sound), Leslie lives in a house full of laughter outside of Washington, D.C. with her soul mate, two cats, two dogs, two fish, and a teenager.
By some miracle, her writing skills persuaded Penn State University to accept her. Between bartending shifts, she studied Fiction Writing and Communications.
Today, Leslie writes at least a thousand words a day on DC Metro orange line trains. Most of them perish behind the delete button. She co-wrote her first book in Harrisburg hotel rooms and diners with her best friend.
When she's not off exploring the world (or getting caught in irons on Roanoke Sound), Leslie lives in a house full of laughter outside of Washington, D.C. with her soul mate, two cats, two dogs, two fish, and a teenager.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 11, 2016
What an emotive read this proved to be, heart-breaking, simply superb and unique!
The story is told from the perspective of the now rockstar, Webb Turner, relating events from the present and memories from his past. Most of these events are concerned with Bree, who he met when she moved into the house across the road from his when they were both thirteen years old. He has had a call from his Mum warning that Bree is in hospital, dying so he abandons the concert he should have been performing in to drive home to say goodbye to her. As he travels through blizzard conditions, he recalls events from the past, the tumultuous times when he struggled to define their ever changing relationship and interactions. As he explores these memories, he also revises some of his opinions and re-evaluates other relationships.
Exploring traumatic events from the past, the story explores the impact of dysfunctional homes and abuse in many forms, including drugs, neglect, physical, sexual and emotional. Despite the realistic portrayal of somewhat harrowing scenarios, the story is an enthralling, emotional yet easy read. It seems likely to only have a depressing outcome but keep reading, there is hope in there, too - for me the unexpected ending was superb, truly the icing on the cake!
Many thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for gifting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
The story is told from the perspective of the now rockstar, Webb Turner, relating events from the present and memories from his past. Most of these events are concerned with Bree, who he met when she moved into the house across the road from his when they were both thirteen years old. He has had a call from his Mum warning that Bree is in hospital, dying so he abandons the concert he should have been performing in to drive home to say goodbye to her. As he travels through blizzard conditions, he recalls events from the past, the tumultuous times when he struggled to define their ever changing relationship and interactions. As he explores these memories, he also revises some of his opinions and re-evaluates other relationships.
Exploring traumatic events from the past, the story explores the impact of dysfunctional homes and abuse in many forms, including drugs, neglect, physical, sexual and emotional. Despite the realistic portrayal of somewhat harrowing scenarios, the story is an enthralling, emotional yet easy read. It seems likely to only have a depressing outcome but keep reading, there is hope in there, too - for me the unexpected ending was superb, truly the icing on the cake!
Many thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for gifting me an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
July 4, 2016
I was asked by Blue Moon Publishing, on NetGalley to give my unbiased opinion of the upcoming digital novel, The Goodbyes. My rating is a qualified one: Genre based (older YA, Young Adult, Romance, Women's fiction, reader ability), average reader ability, and the writer's ability to deliver a significant message within an uncomplicated format. 3.5 stars + for theme
If we say "Goodbye", does it mean "The End"? Can our goodbyes really be layered with nostalgia for what might have been, a moment in our lives that we unexpectedly take steps away from the familiar and perhaps a chance to let go of the ugliness before for a fresh start? These are the questions which "The Goodbyes" asks in author Laura Welch's intimately drawn debut New Adult novel.
It is the year 2016 and Webb Turner has become a famous and successful songwriter in the band Tempfive. At heart he will always be the gentle small town boy from Glen Hope, Pennsylvania where he met his band mates and started out. It is also where he met Bree, in 2002, a tough touchy beautiful waif who moved in across the street from him and with whom he formed an almost agonizing bond.
A phone call, just before he is about to go on stage, informs him that Bree is near death. The hoped for organ transplant has not materialized. Webb decides that he must make the road trip to see her one last time and in spite of perilously snowy conditions he drives on and on, remembering.
The story moves back and forth between those early memories of Bree, her erratic behaviour, their developing bonds of support during the confusion of parental abuse and neglect to Webb's growth as a musician and a man, and back to the present as he navigates the vehicle. Charlotte, his manager, checks in periodically, organized and concerned as she has been since the band's first performance. Charlotte knows what "Goodbye" means to her, and she will never say the word because of its associated trauma.
Author Leslie Welch has created a dramatic story surrounding the lives of people victimized by poverty, addiction and traumatic histories visited upon their children in one form of abuse or another: sexual, neglectful, physical and emotional harm. The complex entanglements and obsessions are lessons in trauma bonding, to which Webb and Bree both succumb and fight from. But there is hope...in these people, their love for each other, their letting go, their beginnings... "The Goodbyes".
The novel deals with the many issues which can confront young people as they seek to become independent of dysfunctional backgrounds. This novel is easy to read, has a plot set-up which will appeal to casual readers and at the same time delivers an emotional punch to its audience. Recommended for older YA readers or Young Adult due to sexual content; Romance & Women's Fiction.
If we say "Goodbye", does it mean "The End"? Can our goodbyes really be layered with nostalgia for what might have been, a moment in our lives that we unexpectedly take steps away from the familiar and perhaps a chance to let go of the ugliness before for a fresh start? These are the questions which "The Goodbyes" asks in author Laura Welch's intimately drawn debut New Adult novel.
It is the year 2016 and Webb Turner has become a famous and successful songwriter in the band Tempfive. At heart he will always be the gentle small town boy from Glen Hope, Pennsylvania where he met his band mates and started out. It is also where he met Bree, in 2002, a tough touchy beautiful waif who moved in across the street from him and with whom he formed an almost agonizing bond.
A phone call, just before he is about to go on stage, informs him that Bree is near death. The hoped for organ transplant has not materialized. Webb decides that he must make the road trip to see her one last time and in spite of perilously snowy conditions he drives on and on, remembering.
The story moves back and forth between those early memories of Bree, her erratic behaviour, their developing bonds of support during the confusion of parental abuse and neglect to Webb's growth as a musician and a man, and back to the present as he navigates the vehicle. Charlotte, his manager, checks in periodically, organized and concerned as she has been since the band's first performance. Charlotte knows what "Goodbye" means to her, and she will never say the word because of its associated trauma.
Author Leslie Welch has created a dramatic story surrounding the lives of people victimized by poverty, addiction and traumatic histories visited upon their children in one form of abuse or another: sexual, neglectful, physical and emotional harm. The complex entanglements and obsessions are lessons in trauma bonding, to which Webb and Bree both succumb and fight from. But there is hope...in these people, their love for each other, their letting go, their beginnings... "The Goodbyes".
The novel deals with the many issues which can confront young people as they seek to become independent of dysfunctional backgrounds. This novel is easy to read, has a plot set-up which will appeal to casual readers and at the same time delivers an emotional punch to its audience. Recommended for older YA readers or Young Adult due to sexual content; Romance & Women's Fiction.
July 12, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
Review originally appeared on I'm A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore: http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore....
Sometimes, the past is just as important as the present, as it is because of the past that you have reached your present. This is true for the people around you, as well. In this case, for Webb, Bree and Charlotte.
Webb receives word that Bree is near death, and he rushes home, as much as he can in bad weather.
Through a series of memories of the past and occurrences in the present, all happening while he is driving to be at the bedside of the woman he thinks he has never gotten over, you put together a picture of who Webb is, who he wants to be, the things he lost, the things he gained, and the things that make him who he is.
But what is even more telling is that Webb starts to put it together. he starts to see Bree for who she is, he better understands his family and his early life, his childhood, the band, the actions of other band members, and Charlotte.
He learns more about himself in those few hours in the car than he has in the rest of his life up to that point. And he realizes...that sometimes, people in your life are meant to be in the past, the present, and the future...but other times, life moves on and leaves people in the past. Not everyone belongs in the present, and most importantly, to move forward into the future, you sometimes have to say goodbye to those things that are tying you into places that you should no longer be, and holding you back by keeping you tied to a time that has ended.
I was teary during the scene in the hospital with Bree. I will not give spoilers, but this did not end at all as I expected it to, and I liked that it surprised me. I loved what she told him, and his response. She was right. And, now that he finally understands that, he can move to what awaits him in the future.
The pacing of this was perfect, the juxtaposition of the chapters in the present and the past were aligned in a way that they not only opened up who Webb was to the reader, but also moved the story forward into who he is now. The characters and the dialog were real, emotional, and heartfelt.
Quite an impressive debut novel and I recommend it.
Review originally appeared on I'm A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore: http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore....
Sometimes, the past is just as important as the present, as it is because of the past that you have reached your present. This is true for the people around you, as well. In this case, for Webb, Bree and Charlotte.
Webb receives word that Bree is near death, and he rushes home, as much as he can in bad weather.
Through a series of memories of the past and occurrences in the present, all happening while he is driving to be at the bedside of the woman he thinks he has never gotten over, you put together a picture of who Webb is, who he wants to be, the things he lost, the things he gained, and the things that make him who he is.
But what is even more telling is that Webb starts to put it together. he starts to see Bree for who she is, he better understands his family and his early life, his childhood, the band, the actions of other band members, and Charlotte.
He learns more about himself in those few hours in the car than he has in the rest of his life up to that point. And he realizes...that sometimes, people in your life are meant to be in the past, the present, and the future...but other times, life moves on and leaves people in the past. Not everyone belongs in the present, and most importantly, to move forward into the future, you sometimes have to say goodbye to those things that are tying you into places that you should no longer be, and holding you back by keeping you tied to a time that has ended.
I was teary during the scene in the hospital with Bree. I will not give spoilers, but this did not end at all as I expected it to, and I liked that it surprised me. I loved what she told him, and his response. She was right. And, now that he finally understands that, he can move to what awaits him in the future.
The pacing of this was perfect, the juxtaposition of the chapters in the present and the past were aligned in a way that they not only opened up who Webb was to the reader, but also moved the story forward into who he is now. The characters and the dialog were real, emotional, and heartfelt.
Quite an impressive debut novel and I recommend it.
April 8, 2017
Webb has long been smitten with the lovely young woman who lives across the street from him, Bree, but has never done anything about it. When she starts dating Jason, his best friend, it becomes painful to see them together.
Bree flirts with Webb but he doesn't know where he stands with her, so he moves on with his life, and joins a band. Song-writing comes easily to him, and before long his band gets a lucky break. They quickly rise to fame and fortune, but Webb can't get Bree out of his head.
Charlotte is their band manager, and is indispensable to all of the young men. Webb eventually realizes that he is in love with her, but convincing her of that is another matter altogether.
Bree flirts with Webb but he doesn't know where he stands with her, so he moves on with his life, and joins a band. Song-writing comes easily to him, and before long his band gets a lucky break. They quickly rise to fame and fortune, but Webb can't get Bree out of his head.
Charlotte is their band manager, and is indispensable to all of the young men. Webb eventually realizes that he is in love with her, but convincing her of that is another matter altogether.
July 29, 2016
Title: The Goodbyes
Author: Leslie Welch
Publisher: Blue Moon Publishers
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: July 12, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
Page Count: 226 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This book was a little different for me. I was sure where this book was going or how it would get there. Once I got into it, there was no turning back. I was never sure until the end of the story how this book would end. The HEA is not always a guarantee. The plot of this debut book is about the journey of Webster Turner. How a series of circumstances takes him on the path to Rock stardom, and how the women in his life play a part of getting him there. The chemistry in this book was not the all powerful consuming chemistry, but these characters play off each other well. I would not call this book a romance. It was more a book of self discovery. The pacing was interesting. Ms Welch takes us back and forth in time where we meet Webb as a awkward teen with a crush on his new neighbor to the Rock Star that is desperate to go home to say “Goodbye.” The ending is surprising. Sorry not even going to hint how this book turns out. It was interesting to watch the characters in the book grow. These characters were developed very well throughout the story.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 3 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 4 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of The Goodbyes provided by the Blue Moon Publishers for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Leslie Welch
Publisher: Blue Moon Publishers
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: July 12, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
Page Count: 226 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
The Goodbyes is a moving and realistic account of the strength of an unbreakable bond, the anguish of unrequited feelings, and the wisdom attained through the highs and lows of triumph and tragedy. Told through the unique prose of debut author Leslie Welch, this story aims for the core of our emotions.
Webb Turner grew up in a seemingly idyllic Pennsylvanian town, tortured by a troubled household. His young life is turned upside down by the exciting, magnetic, and wild girl next door, Bree. They keep each other at arm's length their whole lives, however, dancing around the issue of their unresolved feelings while Bree's life steadily spirals out of control.
In the meantime, Webb's life is on a different trajectory. He escapes the small town to become a globetrotting rock music sensation, with a new romantic interest on his mind and the past left in the rear-view mirror—until he hears that Bree is dying. This shocking news unleashes a torrent of unresolved angst that won't be dammed until Webb drops everything and everybody mid-tour to undertake a dangerous drive through a blizzard to be by Bree's side, just for one last chance to say his final farewell.
With compelling characters, an unflinchingly realistic small-town setting, and emotionally sensitive prose, author Leslie Welch weaves a story that lingers in the mind long after the cover is closed..
Review:
This book was a little different for me. I was sure where this book was going or how it would get there. Once I got into it, there was no turning back. I was never sure until the end of the story how this book would end. The HEA is not always a guarantee. The plot of this debut book is about the journey of Webster Turner. How a series of circumstances takes him on the path to Rock stardom, and how the women in his life play a part of getting him there. The chemistry in this book was not the all powerful consuming chemistry, but these characters play off each other well. I would not call this book a romance. It was more a book of self discovery. The pacing was interesting. Ms Welch takes us back and forth in time where we meet Webb as a awkward teen with a crush on his new neighbor to the Rock Star that is desperate to go home to say “Goodbye.” The ending is surprising. Sorry not even going to hint how this book turns out. It was interesting to watch the characters in the book grow. These characters were developed very well throughout the story.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5
Categories
PLOT: 4 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 3 Stars
PACING: 4 Stars
ENDING: 4 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of The Goodbyes provided by the Blue Moon Publishers for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
August 8, 2016
Requires a lot of patience.
I don't usually read books about rock stars, I've always figured they would just be about an individual discovering themself through music, or meeting someone (the love interest) who pushes them to change their ways. I was glad this book was different. For one thing, the main character-Webb-is not an arrogant jerk of a rock star. And the book wasn't about him discovering himself but, about him discovering love. Well, rather he just sort of pines hopelessly for this girl-Bree. I admired his confidence to go after her and tell her his feelings, but his foolishness and failure to see her true character wiped out any admiration I had for him. He was a hopeless case and she was no better, a narcissist, she led him on, ruined and hurt him. She inspired his songs of a love lost, of heartbreak, so Webb feels he owes her his career. And it is for that reason, and of course because he still sees Bree as a part of his future, that he sets off to return to his small town to see her again. After thirteen years away. He wants to properly say goodbye since Bree is severely sick in hospital. This may be his only chance. But...will he say more than goodbye? Will he want more from Bree? Or will he finally move on?
I appreciated how this wasn't just your average love story: how it wasn't two lovers estranged by circumstance. I liked the whole love triangle thing: Charlotte, Webb's best friend and manager, pines for Webb. Webb pines for Bree. And Bree is wholly in love with herself. It's pretty obvious I didn't like Bree. She reminds me of Lydia in 'Love for Lydia' by H.E.Bates. And then, there was the comflict between Webb and his band members, the jealousy and rivalry. Always interesting. I definitely loved the ending, I had the 'it's about time' expression on my face. And not because I had reached the end, but because of Webb and his ultimate decision. It really was about time, I was about ready to give up on him!
This is a good novel, so long as you can be patient with the characters. There were times when I wanted to give them a good shake or just wished they were killed off. Bree was so selfish....Ugh! What did Webb see in her?
I received this book through NetGalley.
I don't usually read books about rock stars, I've always figured they would just be about an individual discovering themself through music, or meeting someone (the love interest) who pushes them to change their ways. I was glad this book was different. For one thing, the main character-Webb-is not an arrogant jerk of a rock star. And the book wasn't about him discovering himself but, about him discovering love. Well, rather he just sort of pines hopelessly for this girl-Bree. I admired his confidence to go after her and tell her his feelings, but his foolishness and failure to see her true character wiped out any admiration I had for him. He was a hopeless case and she was no better, a narcissist, she led him on, ruined and hurt him. She inspired his songs of a love lost, of heartbreak, so Webb feels he owes her his career. And it is for that reason, and of course because he still sees Bree as a part of his future, that he sets off to return to his small town to see her again. After thirteen years away. He wants to properly say goodbye since Bree is severely sick in hospital. This may be his only chance. But...will he say more than goodbye? Will he want more from Bree? Or will he finally move on?
I appreciated how this wasn't just your average love story: how it wasn't two lovers estranged by circumstance. I liked the whole love triangle thing: Charlotte, Webb's best friend and manager, pines for Webb. Webb pines for Bree. And Bree is wholly in love with herself. It's pretty obvious I didn't like Bree. She reminds me of Lydia in 'Love for Lydia' by H.E.Bates. And then, there was the comflict between Webb and his band members, the jealousy and rivalry. Always interesting. I definitely loved the ending, I had the 'it's about time' expression on my face. And not because I had reached the end, but because of Webb and his ultimate decision. It really was about time, I was about ready to give up on him!
This is a good novel, so long as you can be patient with the characters. There were times when I wanted to give them a good shake or just wished they were killed off. Bree was so selfish....Ugh! What did Webb see in her?
I received this book through NetGalley.
May 27, 2016
*4.5 Stars
The Goodbyes is a fast paced, uniquely written book that captured my interest from the very first page. It takes the reader on an emotional journey through the adolescent and early adult years of Webb Turner, a young man who is captivated by his new neighbor and who uses her as a muse to inspire his music and lyrics. His hope is that one day he will leave his sleepy little hometown, find fame, and maybe even be with the woman he loves.
The book begins in the present day. Webb has found his fame as a rock star, but when he receives a call that Bree, his neighbor from back home, is in the hospital and might not pull through, he drops everything, including the tour that he’s currently on, to drive home in a blizzard to see her one last time.
The book goes back and forth between the present day and the past. I loved this aspect of the book. It enables the reader to witness the lives of the characters and to understand what events led them to become the people that they are today. It delves into the angst of adolescence and the trials and tribulations of growing up and finding your path in life.
I loved Webb. He was an introverted, nice, quiet guy who was brimming with raw talent. His only real flaw was that he wasn’t able to ever get past his first love. While Webb and Bree only had a couple of brief intimate encounters, it was enough for him to long for her and dream of someday being with her. He put all of his emotions, passion, and heartache for Bree into his lyrics which ended up catapulting his band into stardom. But pining over someone who would never truly be his prevented him from seeing what was right in front of him.
I can best describe this book as an emotional story of growth, self-discovery, and love. It was both heartbreaking and hopeful. The Goodbyes is a fantastic debut novel by an author who I am looking forward to reading more from in the future.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
The Goodbyes is a fast paced, uniquely written book that captured my interest from the very first page. It takes the reader on an emotional journey through the adolescent and early adult years of Webb Turner, a young man who is captivated by his new neighbor and who uses her as a muse to inspire his music and lyrics. His hope is that one day he will leave his sleepy little hometown, find fame, and maybe even be with the woman he loves.
The book begins in the present day. Webb has found his fame as a rock star, but when he receives a call that Bree, his neighbor from back home, is in the hospital and might not pull through, he drops everything, including the tour that he’s currently on, to drive home in a blizzard to see her one last time.
The book goes back and forth between the present day and the past. I loved this aspect of the book. It enables the reader to witness the lives of the characters and to understand what events led them to become the people that they are today. It delves into the angst of adolescence and the trials and tribulations of growing up and finding your path in life.
I loved Webb. He was an introverted, nice, quiet guy who was brimming with raw talent. His only real flaw was that he wasn’t able to ever get past his first love. While Webb and Bree only had a couple of brief intimate encounters, it was enough for him to long for her and dream of someday being with her. He put all of his emotions, passion, and heartache for Bree into his lyrics which ended up catapulting his band into stardom. But pining over someone who would never truly be his prevented him from seeing what was right in front of him.
I can best describe this book as an emotional story of growth, self-discovery, and love. It was both heartbreaking and hopeful. The Goodbyes is a fantastic debut novel by an author who I am looking forward to reading more from in the future.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2016
Oh my God you guys. This book. Words cannot describe.
I felt like I was 16 all over again. All the feelings, the insecurities, the backstabings, the lies, and the tangle of emotions that makes up the teenage years are portrayed in this heartwarming and heart-wrenching read. The moment you think you understand, you don't. The moment you think you can breathe - you can't.
I seriously could not put this book down. It's a big change from my usual fantasy reads, and honestly I expected not to like it because I don't like reading depressing stories. I was glad to be wrong. This was worth every minute, every sentence, every word.
The characters were so realistic I felt like I knew them in real life. Flawed and angsty and real. I wanted to reach over through the pages and hug the MC. Just hold him. There was no kingdom to save and no magic to master, but his journey wasn't through external happenings - it was in his own heart.
I loved and I hated. I couldn't wait to turn the page and see what happened next. If you're looking for a nostalgic read roiling with emotions this is a fantastic story that I would recommend to anyone, even if it's not your genre. Give it a try and I think you'll find it as amazing as I did.
(I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review)
I felt like I was 16 all over again. All the feelings, the insecurities, the backstabings, the lies, and the tangle of emotions that makes up the teenage years are portrayed in this heartwarming and heart-wrenching read. The moment you think you understand, you don't. The moment you think you can breathe - you can't.
I seriously could not put this book down. It's a big change from my usual fantasy reads, and honestly I expected not to like it because I don't like reading depressing stories. I was glad to be wrong. This was worth every minute, every sentence, every word.
The characters were so realistic I felt like I knew them in real life. Flawed and angsty and real. I wanted to reach over through the pages and hug the MC. Just hold him. There was no kingdom to save and no magic to master, but his journey wasn't through external happenings - it was in his own heart.
I loved and I hated. I couldn't wait to turn the page and see what happened next. If you're looking for a nostalgic read roiling with emotions this is a fantastic story that I would recommend to anyone, even if it's not your genre. Give it a try and I think you'll find it as amazing as I did.
(I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review)
May 30, 2016
This was such a heartbreaking book. Webb and Bree have always had a very destructive relationship as teens. They were always with other people but somehow inexplicably drawn to one another. Their relationship consists of a consistent pattern of passion and destruction. Eventually Webb escapes his small town and becomes famous. This story tells the story of their past as well as Webb's frantic journey back home to see Bree before she dies. Honestly at first glance I expected this to be a cliché read because I've watched so many movies with a similar story. The Goodbyes, however, is a realistic and heart-wrenching read. The characters are as destructive as Catherine and Heathcliff but the reader can't help but sympathise with them while simultaneously wanting to bash them over the head for their stupidity. I especially enjoyed how unexpected, fitting and beautiful the ending was.
September 9, 2016
A captivating story that was difficult to put down! This is an easy and enjoyable novel to read. Webb, Bree and Charlotte were wonderfully captivating teenage characters and provided a contrast in personalities in an intriguing story of young love, sex and music. While in essence a love story it also has many important social issues such as domestic violence and sexual abuse and are explored from the perspective of teenagers and young adults. The often short chapters which jumped back and forth in the chronology of the story added intensity to the story and conflict between the characters. Some very intense moments! A good novel for older teenagers and young adults.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Blue Moon Publishers for an ebook copy to read and write an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher Blue Moon Publishers for an ebook copy to read and write an honest review.
July 2, 2016
I have to be honest, I'm not much of a reader... I love words, and appreciate stories, but most books cannot hold my attention.
When I started reading The Goodbyes, I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I was emotionally invested in the characters. The dialogue was so relatable and natural, and the story held my attention. I loved how the chapters went back and forth from past to present, and the story is so engaging.
This book actually got me reading, after completing it I went on to read 3 more novels.
When I started reading The Goodbyes, I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I was emotionally invested in the characters. The dialogue was so relatable and natural, and the story held my attention. I loved how the chapters went back and forth from past to present, and the story is so engaging.
This book actually got me reading, after completing it I went on to read 3 more novels.
September 28, 2016
4.5 stars-I got this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The feels. This book gave me the feels. I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into with this one. I was automatically approved for it and I liked the cover. It has relationships dripping with passion and destruction. Characters who are flawed but relatable. It was a quick easy read that I would definitely recommend to a friend.
The feels. This book gave me the feels. I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into with this one. I was automatically approved for it and I liked the cover. It has relationships dripping with passion and destruction. Characters who are flawed but relatable. It was a quick easy read that I would definitely recommend to a friend.
May 3, 2016
I enjoyed this story of a young man with remarkable gifts, letting go of his abusive childhood. His coming of age is a journey, he grows and realizes what he now has and is in danger of losing. I liked Webb and Charlotte, was hoping for a happy ending! I will read more from this author.
July 18, 2016
A quick read that draws you in and doesn't let you go even after you've finished. An emotional journey through the adolescent agony of analyzing the actions of friends, frenemies, obsessions, and oneself. And yet through it all: hope.
July 1, 2018
I liked “The Goodbyes” very much. Basic, down to earth, most can easily relate to the characters and their dreams and hopes. It’s an enjoyable read but allot time when you start because it’s difficult to put down. A day or two after finishing reading I picked it up and read it again. Still enjoyable, maybe more so, second time around.
June 30, 2019
The goodbyes by Leslie Welch.
This was a very enjoyable read.
I liked the story and some of the characters. I was hoping he ending up with who I wanted him to. And I'm glad he did. I wasn't sure if I liked Bree or not. I liked Charlotte more. I liked the ending too. 4*.
This was a very enjoyable read.
I liked the story and some of the characters. I was hoping he ending up with who I wanted him to. And I'm glad he did. I wasn't sure if I liked Bree or not. I liked Charlotte more. I liked the ending too. 4*.
September 6, 2016
In 2016, Web Turner is a famous musician and song writer. In 2002, Web Turner fell in love with a dysfunctional girl named Bree and his life was forever changed. Through “The Goodbyes” we view Web, in alternating time periods, recount the fall out of various types of abuse, grief, his confusing relationship with Bree, his stardom and the state of his heart in what is supposed to be the present. Web leaves a show just before it begins to drive to Bree’s hospital bed as it may be her last night. On the drive he recounts his relationship or lack thereof with Bree, his mother, his bandmates, and his best friend Charlotte. On the few hours long drive, through retrospection, he starts to see his life a bit differently, possibly even coming to terms with the roles various people have played throughout his 20 some years. And, of course, just when he arrives, he embraces a new view of himself and those he has and currently loves (but I swear its not cheesy).
I realize the above description sounds like one of those boring, nothing-ever-happens stories but it isn’t! I really loved The Goodbyes!
Oh Web – you’re so sweet with your long standing unrequited love. His love for Bree taken advantage of, his heart stomped all over and he blames everyone except Bree. Although I don’t wish that kind of toxic relationship on anyone, I liked that he thought she was flawless even though she was all flaws. Isn’t that how people want to be loved, wholly, completely and without remorse? Sure, I wanted to shake him and point out how terrible Bree was for him about 100 times but his refusal to give up on her was remarkable, even when faced with all the trappings of stardom. Web does some minor drugs and gets in a fight here and there but is more or less the brooding artistic type and while that typically annoys me (to the point of not finishing the story), having the back story so thoroughly explained made his pain and general broodiness lovable.
I have never read a character so desperately in need of therapy as is Bree. From the moment we meet Bree, her teen angst is written all over the page. And as the story progresses we start to see there is so much more to her misplaced emotions, cruel mind games and physical advances. While I know many people really couldn’t stand her because of how poorly she treated Web throughout the book, I have to say that I felt bad for her. I grew up in an area that reminds me of Glen Hope and knew many girls who behaved in this erratic, promiscuous way and they all had absolutely terrible home lives. People aren’t born narcissistic and broken. I applaud Welch for writing such a real character who shows the dark side of our society.
The story was not action packed but was still so enticing, I couldn’t put it down. I would recommend this book to just about anyone!
I realize the above description sounds like one of those boring, nothing-ever-happens stories but it isn’t! I really loved The Goodbyes!
Oh Web – you’re so sweet with your long standing unrequited love. His love for Bree taken advantage of, his heart stomped all over and he blames everyone except Bree. Although I don’t wish that kind of toxic relationship on anyone, I liked that he thought she was flawless even though she was all flaws. Isn’t that how people want to be loved, wholly, completely and without remorse? Sure, I wanted to shake him and point out how terrible Bree was for him about 100 times but his refusal to give up on her was remarkable, even when faced with all the trappings of stardom. Web does some minor drugs and gets in a fight here and there but is more or less the brooding artistic type and while that typically annoys me (to the point of not finishing the story), having the back story so thoroughly explained made his pain and general broodiness lovable.
I have never read a character so desperately in need of therapy as is Bree. From the moment we meet Bree, her teen angst is written all over the page. And as the story progresses we start to see there is so much more to her misplaced emotions, cruel mind games and physical advances. While I know many people really couldn’t stand her because of how poorly she treated Web throughout the book, I have to say that I felt bad for her. I grew up in an area that reminds me of Glen Hope and knew many girls who behaved in this erratic, promiscuous way and they all had absolutely terrible home lives. People aren’t born narcissistic and broken. I applaud Welch for writing such a real character who shows the dark side of our society.
The story was not action packed but was still so enticing, I couldn’t put it down. I would recommend this book to just about anyone!
August 4, 2016
I was provided with a review copy of this novel by Blue Moon Publishing via Netgalley. I'll begin by saying that I give this story 4 stars.
This story definitely isn't your typical romance. A tale of unrequited love, missed moments and seemingly unbreakable bonds. You get a lot of emotional feels right from the beginning pages.
We begin in the year 2016 and Webb Turner is about to take part in yet another interview, part of being famous I suppose but then the radio host happens to mention Bree, a girl from back home, we see him agonising over something that appears to be part of his past, someone he left in that small town he grew up in.
Then Webb receives a phone call that he might have been expecting but doesn't make it any less shocking, Bree is dying. This leaves Webb with a decision, carry on with the bands tour or drop everything to say one final goodbye?
In this case he went with his heart over his head and embarks on a 200 mile road trip through a snow blizzard to see the woman who once inspired so many songs that he'd written.
Throughout the story we go back and forth between past and present. I liked this concept as we got plenty of detail on all characters involved within the novel. It made me appreciate why that bond between those two young people remained so strong despite Webb's shyness and Bree's more than erratic behaviour.
Covering subjects from poverty, drug addiction and child abuse in more than one form, Leslie managed to keep this story quite heart warming even when describing darker times. Webb throughout the whole book is on his own journey, you can see how he matures as the story progresses but you can also see how the events of his past shaped the man that he's become.
But sometimes what we perceive as love can really being masking something else, clinging to a feeling purely because you aren't ready to say the word goodbye, it just comes across as too final, especially for a person that has been a part of your life for so long, through the good and the bad.
I think what I got from The Goodbyes was a sense of hope and the feeling that everything does indeed happen for a reason.
Now for the reason I marked it down a star. See although the story read well, the writing flowed and seemed almost poetic at times but even with all of this, I was left disappointed with the abrupt ending. After such a build up I just expected more somehow. An epilogue perhaps to show just how those last decisions affected both Bree and Webb.
Overall it was a good read. Plenty of emotion and it certainly had me turning the pages. For a debut novel I was impressed and look forward to reading her further works. Recommended to lovers of YA and all those romantics out there.
This story definitely isn't your typical romance. A tale of unrequited love, missed moments and seemingly unbreakable bonds. You get a lot of emotional feels right from the beginning pages.
We begin in the year 2016 and Webb Turner is about to take part in yet another interview, part of being famous I suppose but then the radio host happens to mention Bree, a girl from back home, we see him agonising over something that appears to be part of his past, someone he left in that small town he grew up in.
Then Webb receives a phone call that he might have been expecting but doesn't make it any less shocking, Bree is dying. This leaves Webb with a decision, carry on with the bands tour or drop everything to say one final goodbye?
In this case he went with his heart over his head and embarks on a 200 mile road trip through a snow blizzard to see the woman who once inspired so many songs that he'd written.
Throughout the story we go back and forth between past and present. I liked this concept as we got plenty of detail on all characters involved within the novel. It made me appreciate why that bond between those two young people remained so strong despite Webb's shyness and Bree's more than erratic behaviour.
Covering subjects from poverty, drug addiction and child abuse in more than one form, Leslie managed to keep this story quite heart warming even when describing darker times. Webb throughout the whole book is on his own journey, you can see how he matures as the story progresses but you can also see how the events of his past shaped the man that he's become.
But sometimes what we perceive as love can really being masking something else, clinging to a feeling purely because you aren't ready to say the word goodbye, it just comes across as too final, especially for a person that has been a part of your life for so long, through the good and the bad.
I think what I got from The Goodbyes was a sense of hope and the feeling that everything does indeed happen for a reason.
Now for the reason I marked it down a star. See although the story read well, the writing flowed and seemed almost poetic at times but even with all of this, I was left disappointed with the abrupt ending. After such a build up I just expected more somehow. An epilogue perhaps to show just how those last decisions affected both Bree and Webb.
Overall it was a good read. Plenty of emotion and it certainly had me turning the pages. For a debut novel I was impressed and look forward to reading her further works. Recommended to lovers of YA and all those romantics out there.
July 20, 2016
Webb was a self taught guitar player in the band that was doing very well. But then he heard Bree was dying and he walked off the stage to prepare to go home. He remembers back to when new people had moved across the street and him and his mom toke them to show the new people where the mall was. Webb was in seventh grade. Webb had been unable to really talk to Bree he was totally memorized by Bree, but he manage to comment on her hair. . Another couple years go by and it’s prom time Webb mentioned to Bree but she had a date so Webb went ahaead and asked Merilee and Bree acted jealous. Nut before that Bree had walked with Webb and he toke her to see the fort he had built a long time ago with his then best friend Jason. While there Bree kissed Webb but then an hour later she was wearing Jason’s ring around her neck on a chain. Bree was going to become Webb’s moms assistant at the beauty shop. Then Webb was back in the present and Webb toke off to get home and he drove and he hadn’t driven in seven years but he needed to be alone. Then another memory where Jason told Webb he had sex with Bree and she had come over to Webb’s as he didn’t go to school that day and Webb told he was busy and shut the door on Bree. Now back to the present again Charolette was the band’s manager and did a really good job. She had just called to let Webb know Bree was in ICU and where. Then Webb thinks back to the night Bree climbed into Webb’s window and toke Webb’s virginity then she left again. The next morning Jason and Bree were fighting and Webb said something and Jason broke his finger. But then Webb finds out Bree said he forces her. Then Webb is pulled over by a cop and it is the present who turns out to be Jason who has married and now has three kids and not to Bree. Then once again Webb is in his memories when Bree overdosed and he found her and saved her life. But then Bree’s mom sent her to Ohio where they had lived and she was staying with her cousin. Webb and Bree kept in contact. Then suddenly Webb was near the hospital and found he couldn’t go to see Bree. Webb then called Charolette.
I.m not sure how I feel about this story. I liked it but it was differently different. At one point I didn’t think I would finish this story. I was tired of the bs Bree did to Webb but I decided to see where it went. This was an easy pretty good read, I thought it would be long but the chapters were short. The writing was good but the story just didn’t WOW me. I don’t like going back and forth between the past and present either but did get through it in this story. Normally I don’t.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I.m not sure how I feel about this story. I liked it but it was differently different. At one point I didn’t think I would finish this story. I was tired of the bs Bree did to Webb but I decided to see where it went. This was an easy pretty good read, I thought it would be long but the chapters were short. The writing was good but the story just didn’t WOW me. I don’t like going back and forth between the past and present either but did get through it in this story. Normally I don’t.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
August 10, 2016
Well.....WOW! This book was not AT ALL what I was expecting. I LOVED it!!
The Goodbyes first appeared on my radar a few months back and the premise immediately drew my attention. I was intrigued by the description of a desperate man racing through a snowstorm to see his long-lost love once more before she died; however the fear of a really sad ending kept me from reading it.
Once it was finally confirmed to me that this book DOES NOT have a sad ending, I dove right in and from page one, this story was nothing like I thought it would be. I had a very hard time putting it down to get anything else done.
Told in alternating flashbacks between the past and the present, we meet Webb; a kid growing up without much money, in a home with an abusive stepfather and a mother who can't move past her fading youth and failed attempts at becoming an actress and model. At twelve years old, Webb immediately falls head over heels in love with the beautiful girl who moves in across the street, and he does everything he can to befriend her and be there for her when things get rough in her own dysfunctional home. Throughout their teenage years Webb plays doormat to Bree, who not only stomps all over his heart, but seems to REALLY enjoy doing so. What a bitch!
Although the author's style of writing is simple and the chapters short, there is a TON of feeling packed into this story! The angst of unrequited love, the disappointment, the loneliness, the feelings of being a high school outcast, the yearning for a better someday......its all there, and my heart not only broke for Webb, but I LOVED his heart of gold and the way he did not let his miserable life change or harden him.
So, back to the original premise......after dropping out of school and finally leaving his small town, Webb achieves fame and fortune, but news of Bree's life threatening illness prompts him to drop everything and drive all night through a raging blizzard to reach her side before its too late. If you think you have an idea of what's going to happen, think again. This story is one of the very, VERY rare ones that truly surprised me by going in a completely opposite direction than I thought it would. I'm not going to say too much more because I don't want to give anything away, but I absolutely LOVED the ending. After spending fifteen years and several hundred pages with Webb, it was so nice to see him finally realize his self worth and go after the life he deserved.
***ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
The Goodbyes first appeared on my radar a few months back and the premise immediately drew my attention. I was intrigued by the description of a desperate man racing through a snowstorm to see his long-lost love once more before she died; however the fear of a really sad ending kept me from reading it.
Once it was finally confirmed to me that this book DOES NOT have a sad ending, I dove right in and from page one, this story was nothing like I thought it would be. I had a very hard time putting it down to get anything else done.
Told in alternating flashbacks between the past and the present, we meet Webb; a kid growing up without much money, in a home with an abusive stepfather and a mother who can't move past her fading youth and failed attempts at becoming an actress and model. At twelve years old, Webb immediately falls head over heels in love with the beautiful girl who moves in across the street, and he does everything he can to befriend her and be there for her when things get rough in her own dysfunctional home. Throughout their teenage years Webb plays doormat to Bree, who not only stomps all over his heart, but seems to REALLY enjoy doing so. What a bitch!
Although the author's style of writing is simple and the chapters short, there is a TON of feeling packed into this story! The angst of unrequited love, the disappointment, the loneliness, the feelings of being a high school outcast, the yearning for a better someday......its all there, and my heart not only broke for Webb, but I LOVED his heart of gold and the way he did not let his miserable life change or harden him.
So, back to the original premise......after dropping out of school and finally leaving his small town, Webb achieves fame and fortune, but news of Bree's life threatening illness prompts him to drop everything and drive all night through a raging blizzard to reach her side before its too late. If you think you have an idea of what's going to happen, think again. This story is one of the very, VERY rare ones that truly surprised me by going in a completely opposite direction than I thought it would. I'm not going to say too much more because I don't want to give anything away, but I absolutely LOVED the ending. After spending fifteen years and several hundred pages with Webb, it was so nice to see him finally realize his self worth and go after the life he deserved.
***ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
June 29, 2016
I received this advance copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
The Goodbyes features a young boy named Webb, who becomes obsessed with a troubled little girl Bree,who moves into the neighborhood, and this unhealthy obsession governs the decisions he makes from that period and into his early adulthood.
Webb and Bree's early childhood had a few parallels that probably influenced his feelings for her, and may have been the cementing factor in the one-sided kinship Webb felt with Bree. Based on the experiences Bree had, she developed a callous and sociopathic attitude to life, and even the most devastating time in her life saw little to no repentance or softening in her.The secrecy surrounding the parents of both main characters I believe, is somehow intentionally left up to the reader's interpretation.
I was not able to form a connection with Webb or Bree because there were too many negative feelings floating around while reading the book.I tried to find redemptive traits in the characters, but could only react with disdain to Webb's continued feelings and sense of obligation for someone who cared only about themselves, while I felt only hatred for Bree as she continues to disregard others' feelings and make false accusations.The author did a great job in evoking these strong emotions, and while I did not cry,(which for me is a true sign of a touching story),for a debut novel that is really significant.
The formatting of the book takes you back and forth in time, and while I have seen this done more often, I find it a bit confusing and distracting, to have to frequently revert back to previous chapters or even to the beginning of a chapter to try to follow the story or recall what happened last.Loved that the chapters were short, so it was easy to take a break in reading.With that being said,it was a very well written book, interesting plot that is not often seen in romances and featured real life situations that readers can relate to.
I would love to see a story for Chris, the only bandmember I liked.
The Goodbyes features a young boy named Webb, who becomes obsessed with a troubled little girl Bree,who moves into the neighborhood, and this unhealthy obsession governs the decisions he makes from that period and into his early adulthood.
Webb and Bree's early childhood had a few parallels that probably influenced his feelings for her, and may have been the cementing factor in the one-sided kinship Webb felt with Bree. Based on the experiences Bree had, she developed a callous and sociopathic attitude to life, and even the most devastating time in her life saw little to no repentance or softening in her.The secrecy surrounding the parents of both main characters I believe, is somehow intentionally left up to the reader's interpretation.
I was not able to form a connection with Webb or Bree because there were too many negative feelings floating around while reading the book.I tried to find redemptive traits in the characters, but could only react with disdain to Webb's continued feelings and sense of obligation for someone who cared only about themselves, while I felt only hatred for Bree as she continues to disregard others' feelings and make false accusations.The author did a great job in evoking these strong emotions, and while I did not cry,(which for me is a true sign of a touching story),for a debut novel that is really significant.
The formatting of the book takes you back and forth in time, and while I have seen this done more often, I find it a bit confusing and distracting, to have to frequently revert back to previous chapters or even to the beginning of a chapter to try to follow the story or recall what happened last.Loved that the chapters were short, so it was easy to take a break in reading.With that being said,it was a very well written book, interesting plot that is not often seen in romances and featured real life situations that readers can relate to.
I would love to see a story for Chris, the only bandmember I liked.
September 1, 2016
This is a story of life tinged with romance and regret and suitable for mature YA and up.
Bree is the love of Webb's life. Always has been and always will be. This is why Webb finds himself hurtling towards a dying Bree's bedside after walking out on a wildly successful rock tour. It's been years since he has seen her, but his heart still remains with hers. So many memories speed through his mind as he races against the clock, hoping to see her one last time. Will he make it there safely and on time, and if so, will this be the closure he craves from all that has happened between them?
This is a bittersweet story about life and the paths we chose versus the paths we are thrown onto. No matter how many times Bree hurts Webb he forgives her - over and over again - something I think a lot of people can relate to. As a reader your feelings about Bree change constantly, one minute you are disgusted with her choices and the next your heart breaks with empathy. Webb's courage to leave the abuse and strive for his dream gives us hope in our own lives. I liked the way that the story was written in two timelines - it felt as though time was really happening as you were reading it. The cast of characters were so true to life - many could be compared to people you know. The writing and editing were very good - an easy flow to read even with some uncomfortable situations. Not your average YA read, it and gives you a glimpse of how cruel life can be sometimes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Blue Moon Publishers for the chance to review the book.
Bree is the love of Webb's life. Always has been and always will be. This is why Webb finds himself hurtling towards a dying Bree's bedside after walking out on a wildly successful rock tour. It's been years since he has seen her, but his heart still remains with hers. So many memories speed through his mind as he races against the clock, hoping to see her one last time. Will he make it there safely and on time, and if so, will this be the closure he craves from all that has happened between them?
This is a bittersweet story about life and the paths we chose versus the paths we are thrown onto. No matter how many times Bree hurts Webb he forgives her - over and over again - something I think a lot of people can relate to. As a reader your feelings about Bree change constantly, one minute you are disgusted with her choices and the next your heart breaks with empathy. Webb's courage to leave the abuse and strive for his dream gives us hope in our own lives. I liked the way that the story was written in two timelines - it felt as though time was really happening as you were reading it. The cast of characters were so true to life - many could be compared to people you know. The writing and editing were very good - an easy flow to read even with some uncomfortable situations. Not your average YA read, it and gives you a glimpse of how cruel life can be sometimes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Blue Moon Publishers for the chance to review the book.
December 2, 2016
Most of us have had the experience of looking back and wondering “what if?” when thinking about “the one who got away.” In The Goodbyes, Leslie Welch takes us into a world where Webb Turner, a twenty-something rock star is forced to reflect on his life’s choices on a snowy night as he races to say farewell to the object of his unrequited love. Bree, once the girl next door whom Webb has adored since high school, is critically ill—not expected to live through the night—and Webb risks everything to rush to her side. Will he make it to the hospital in time to say goodbye?
In one of my favorite ways to tell a story, the weaving of a character’s past and present experiences, Welch builds a steady narrative that gives the reader a growing understanding of who Webb is. What is it about first love that sometimes keeps people from moving forward? By taking that ride in the car with Webb, we begin to grasp how a painful past, as readily as any navigation system, can program one’s self-destructive path.
To be honest, I didn’t like Webb for much of the book. From the start I found him to be selfish and emotionally shallow. However, by the book’s ending, I felt that he might become a person that appreciates what is in front of him. For me, that possibility is what made The Goodbyes worth reading. As an optimist, after learning the origins of the darkness within him, I believe in Webb’s brighter tomorrow.
In one of my favorite ways to tell a story, the weaving of a character’s past and present experiences, Welch builds a steady narrative that gives the reader a growing understanding of who Webb is. What is it about first love that sometimes keeps people from moving forward? By taking that ride in the car with Webb, we begin to grasp how a painful past, as readily as any navigation system, can program one’s self-destructive path.
To be honest, I didn’t like Webb for much of the book. From the start I found him to be selfish and emotionally shallow. However, by the book’s ending, I felt that he might become a person that appreciates what is in front of him. For me, that possibility is what made The Goodbyes worth reading. As an optimist, after learning the origins of the darkness within him, I believe in Webb’s brighter tomorrow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2016
If I was judging this book by its cover, I'd say that this is a thriller read. But it's not. The Goodbyes is a story of love, self-discovery and growing up. The story is told in Webb Turner's point of view. Webb received word that Bree, the girl across the street that he love is dying. He abandoned everything and rushes home to be with her. Along the journey home, Webb is having a flashback on his relationship with Bree.
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book. Mainly because of most of the rockstar in books I read always acted like an ass. I'm just glad that Webb isn't like that. He's more down to earth kind of a rockstar.
Webb and Bree's relationship is a rollercoaster of emotion. I get frustrated at their relationship sometimes. A part of me wanted them to be together, and another part of me don't. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their relationship and what made them who they are at the present. What I really love about the book is the unexpected ending. I'm just glad that the book end with a happy ending.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review.
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book. Mainly because of most of the rockstar in books I read always acted like an ass. I'm just glad that Webb isn't like that. He's more down to earth kind of a rockstar.
Webb and Bree's relationship is a rollercoaster of emotion. I get frustrated at their relationship sometimes. A part of me wanted them to be together, and another part of me don't. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their relationship and what made them who they are at the present. What I really love about the book is the unexpected ending. I'm just glad that the book end with a happy ending.
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review.
July 12, 2016
All of these feelings just burst forth from each page, and the characters leap to life filled with so much emotion. I really loved the wonderful sentiment that was brought about on page 205 and was left in tears. This fast-paced page turner led me, as in slow motion, down an unforgettable path of jealousy that seemed born from revenge, hatred that brought about broken hearts, and never-ending love that brought two beating hearts together through honesty. A truly amazing high ideals of purity, novel, THE GOODBYES by Leslie Welch. A befitting title for a beautifully written story filled with love and devotion.
A love triangle that brought about a craving for one man because of the love of two women. Through anger one hides her feelings by using, or hurting people she loves, and in the process, leaves a trail of broken hearts and sadness, and the other through jealousy and not talking much, and is afraid to show her true feelings because of what happened years ago. Which one will Web choose? Will anger and jealousy win, or will love triumph? A beautiful read with beautiful characters. I loved it!
June 22, 2016
The Goodbyes by Leslie Welch is phenomenal. The emotional rollercoaster is brilliant. I cried, laughed, and rooted for the characters. Many issues are brought into this exciting read. A tale about love, mistakes, and music. A young guy falls in love with a girl name Bree. Bree is going through a whole lot of hell. Her father is crazy and she acts on impulse. She likes Webb but is with someone else. Webb feels shy around Bree. He wants her but he doesn't want to play her games. Then there's another girl name Charlotte. Webb ends up falling for her. But due to his mistakes, he may just end up losing the one person he truly loves. To make matters worse, Bree is dying. Webb is paying for her surgery...if she makes out alive will Webb finally be able to live his life without regrets or will his heart, break for good? Leslie Welch's writing is superb. I could feel and see everything as it happened. The plot was fast-paced and thrilling. I absolutely loved reading this story and following the characters. Overall, I highly recommend this rock star romance to all.
September 13, 2019
This was definitely a different story and it felt as though I was left with more questions than answers at the end.
Bree is absolutely perfect in Webb's eyes. Every other girl he looks at isn't even half as interesting. But she isn't quite as perfect as Webb has painted her to be in his imagination. Her father is controlling and her mother willingly gives into any and all of his demands. Bree flees from home and stays with Webb's family due to situations arising at home. However, Webb's family aren't good enough for her remarkably high standards. They're too poor so she'll never date Webb. His best friend, Jason, is a much better prospect than poor Webb who writes songs and plays guitar, right?
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but I felt increasingly annoyed with the characters. There's little character development until the very end of the story. I have very little empathy for either Webb or Bree. This had the potential to be good, but just fell flat for me.
Bree is absolutely perfect in Webb's eyes. Every other girl he looks at isn't even half as interesting. But she isn't quite as perfect as Webb has painted her to be in his imagination. Her father is controlling and her mother willingly gives into any and all of his demands. Bree flees from home and stays with Webb's family due to situations arising at home. However, Webb's family aren't good enough for her remarkably high standards. They're too poor so she'll never date Webb. His best friend, Jason, is a much better prospect than poor Webb who writes songs and plays guitar, right?
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but I felt increasingly annoyed with the characters. There's little character development until the very end of the story. I have very little empathy for either Webb or Bree. This had the potential to be good, but just fell flat for me.
July 7, 2016
I was given an ARC of The Goodbyes from NetGalley for an honest review and this is my review.
This book was was excellent. I really enjoyed the book from start to finish.
I can honestly say that I had mixed feelings about the characters in the book. There were times when I really wanted to slap Webb for being Bree's doormat and as for Bree that girl needed to be put in her place because she used her sexuality way to much to get her way and to play with that poor boy's head. I was so annoyed that Webb could not see her for what she really was.
The only problem I had with the book was the end. I was very pleased with how things turned out for Webb (I will not share due to spoilers) but I do wish the author would have given us a bit more then she did but I am greedy like that.
I am giving The Goodbyes five out of five stars.
This book was was excellent. I really enjoyed the book from start to finish.
I can honestly say that I had mixed feelings about the characters in the book. There were times when I really wanted to slap Webb for being Bree's doormat and as for Bree that girl needed to be put in her place because she used her sexuality way to much to get her way and to play with that poor boy's head. I was so annoyed that Webb could not see her for what she really was.
The only problem I had with the book was the end. I was very pleased with how things turned out for Webb (I will not share due to spoilers) but I do wish the author would have given us a bit more then she did but I am greedy like that.
I am giving The Goodbyes five out of five stars.
July 6, 2016
*This book was received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This was a really good book with characters that seemed authentic, real and raw. The ending and the whole book itself almost brought me to tears. I loved the main character Webb and the brutal reality of the book; all the relationships were realistic unlike many other books which sugar coat them.. It was an emotional, thought-provoking and tear-provoking read that acts not only as a commentary on the atrocities that humans commit, human nature, emotions but also on small-town life. Overall, this was a great read with a good writing style an, unforgettable plot and unique characters.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great contemporary read.
This was a really good book with characters that seemed authentic, real and raw. The ending and the whole book itself almost brought me to tears. I loved the main character Webb and the brutal reality of the book; all the relationships were realistic unlike many other books which sugar coat them.. It was an emotional, thought-provoking and tear-provoking read that acts not only as a commentary on the atrocities that humans commit, human nature, emotions but also on small-town life. Overall, this was a great read with a good writing style an, unforgettable plot and unique characters.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great contemporary read.
July 24, 2016
3.5 Stars
A contemporary romance with a male musician MC who is pulled back into his past during a performance to the first love of his life, who is now sick. On his way home, Webb has flashbacks of the important moments during his life and his encounters with Bree. A solid story, even if I didn't care for Bree. The flashbacks are more of a coming-of-age story and the current timeline is more of Webb realizing what he truly has. The ending was good, as finally Webb has an epiphany that took over a decade to embrace. For new adults who enjoy contemporary romance.
Net Galley Feedback
A contemporary romance with a male musician MC who is pulled back into his past during a performance to the first love of his life, who is now sick. On his way home, Webb has flashbacks of the important moments during his life and his encounters with Bree. A solid story, even if I didn't care for Bree. The flashbacks are more of a coming-of-age story and the current timeline is more of Webb realizing what he truly has. The ending was good, as finally Webb has an epiphany that took over a decade to embrace. For new adults who enjoy contemporary romance.
Net Galley Feedback
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