What do you think?
Rate this book
Tell Me Goodnight
This is the story of how I fell in love with a broken man and his three little princesses. It is tragic, but it is true. And with truth, there is almost always tragedy.
Tessa Lang has dreams of becoming the world's next great author of horror novels. So, when she's given the opportunity to write full-time, she sets out to do just that.
There's just one little problem.
She's not scary. At all.
It seems that her plans are ruined, until she meets heartbroken pianist, Jon O'Dell and his three little girls. Suddenly, she finds herself full of inspiration, and with the advice from her grandmother and best-selling novelist, M.L. Lang, Tessa decides to write what her heart wants - romance.
But as her novel moves steadily along, relationships start to develop, and Jon's heart begins to mend, Tessa finds herself facing another unexpected dilemma.
What happens when you fall in love with your muse?
Tessa Lang has dreams of becoming the world's next great author of horror novels. So, when she's given the opportunity to write full-time, she sets out to do just that.
There's just one little problem.
She's not scary. At all.
It seems that her plans are ruined, until she meets heartbroken pianist, Jon O'Dell and his three little girls. Suddenly, she finds herself full of inspiration, and with the advice from her grandmother and best-selling novelist, M.L. Lang, Tessa decides to write what her heart wants - romance.
But as her novel moves steadily along, relationships start to develop, and Jon's heart begins to mend, Tessa finds herself facing another unexpected dilemma.
What happens when you fall in love with your muse?
492 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2019
410 people are currently reading
1499 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey Kingsley
32 books3,127 followersWhen I was a wee lassie, I was told by my preschool teachers that I was a natural at storytelling. When I was just a little older than that, an old friend's mother said to me, "Kelsey, one day your books are going to be on the shelves at the library."
Well, Diane, I don't know if my books are ever going to be on the shelves of libraries, but I'm sure as hell going to try.
When I'm not writing stories destined to be bestsellers, I enjoy devouring TV shows, listening to every type of music there is and going to concerts, reading pretty much anything (with a soft spot for romance and certain books located in 18th century Scotland), obsessing over makeup, and pretending to workout.
I also have a fondness for cats, my family, tattoos, and a really good French fry.
Well, Diane, I don't know if my books are ever going to be on the shelves of libraries, but I'm sure as hell going to try.
When I'm not writing stories destined to be bestsellers, I enjoy devouring TV shows, listening to every type of music there is and going to concerts, reading pretty much anything (with a soft spot for romance and certain books located in 18th century Scotland), obsessing over makeup, and pretending to workout.
I also have a fondness for cats, my family, tattoos, and a really good French fry.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
May 25, 2019
Could not get enough! Tessa, Jon and those precious three little girls had my heart tied up, and I had to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen. Tell Me Goodnight ends with an absolutely fabulous ending, even though I never wanted it to end. Can’t wait to read the next book with more of these characters!
December 11, 2019
I think this is the third in an unmarked series. You don't need to have read the others, which is kind of why it's hard to pin down what their chronological order is.
I'm pretty sure this marks me as giving up on Kelsey Kingsley as an author. Like the others I ended up disliking, this one has some interesting characters and a premise that drew me in. I actually finished this one, but that's because the damage happens late, this time. My engagement was almost all Tess as Jon only barely manages to pull his head out enough not to be completely annoying. I loved her struggle to write and how difficult it was caring for her grandmother and how she found joy in taking care of Jon's girls.
Kingsley also does a fantastic job with the kids and that's rare, indeed. They're believable in so many ways that were inconvenient and awkward, but they were also charming and endearing and I love how present they were and how much of a connection they forged with Tess. Some of that is the barren emotional landscape they have at home, though Jon is a caring father. He's still caught up in his grief and self-blame, however, so he's also something of a huge boo.
To be fair, I saw the damage coming. The dark moment is telegraphed almost from the start with Tess's fears about the story she's writing and how much she is drawing on her relationship with Jon. Since they're both artists, I had hoped that he'd get that creative energy has to borrow from the emotional landscape of the artist so it wouldn't be terrible and we would get something reasonable. Heaven knows, he's mining his own emotional depths for his songs. But no. His response was such a complete abnegation of his prior claims of love that I lost all respect for him, his creator, and everybody associated with this stupid book. You do not emotionally devastate someone you love. You just don't. Hearing them out, giving them a chance, and having a little empathy is what love is all about. And Jon's initial response is bad enough but then . Frankly, Tess being open to anything with him at that point says really bad things about her. Someone treats you like that and still being in love with them is just self-abuse.
So this was mildly lovely for quite a while. And then Jon decides to be the Genghis Khan of love and burn it all to the ground. This was stupid and labeling any of it "love" is an insult. So yeah, one star. I debated going higher because the first bits were pretty good. But no. One good pillaging deserves another.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple explicit sex scenes, but they're short so this is on the low end of my steam tolerance. They were pretty lovely, really, but that only enhances the stupid that comes shortly after the second.
I'm pretty sure this marks me as giving up on Kelsey Kingsley as an author. Like the others I ended up disliking, this one has some interesting characters and a premise that drew me in. I actually finished this one, but that's because the damage happens late, this time. My engagement was almost all Tess as Jon only barely manages to pull his head out enough not to be completely annoying. I loved her struggle to write and how difficult it was caring for her grandmother and how she found joy in taking care of Jon's girls.
Kingsley also does a fantastic job with the kids and that's rare, indeed. They're believable in so many ways that were inconvenient and awkward, but they were also charming and endearing and I love how present they were and how much of a connection they forged with Tess. Some of that is the barren emotional landscape they have at home, though Jon is a caring father. He's still caught up in his grief and self-blame, however, so he's also something of a huge boo.
To be fair, I saw the damage coming. The dark moment is telegraphed almost from the start with Tess's fears about the story she's writing and how much she is drawing on her relationship with Jon. Since they're both artists, I had hoped that he'd get that creative energy has to borrow from the emotional landscape of the artist so it wouldn't be terrible and we would get something reasonable. Heaven knows, he's mining his own emotional depths for his songs. But no. His response was such a complete abnegation of his prior claims of love that I lost all respect for him, his creator, and everybody associated with this stupid book. You do not emotionally devastate someone you love. You just don't. Hearing them out, giving them a chance, and having a little empathy is what love is all about. And Jon's initial response is bad enough but then . Frankly, Tess being open to anything with him at that point says really bad things about her. Someone treats you like that and still being in love with them is just self-abuse.
So this was mildly lovely for quite a while. And then Jon decides to be the Genghis Khan of love and burn it all to the ground. This was stupid and labeling any of it "love" is an insult. So yeah, one star. I debated going higher because the first bits were pretty good. But no. One good pillaging deserves another.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple explicit sex scenes, but they're short so this is on the low end of my steam tolerance. They were pretty lovely, really, but that only enhances the stupid that comes shortly after the second.
May 24, 2019
This is a standalone romance, BUT - I would suggest you read the other books in the series first. Start with Daisies & Devin and then The Life We Wanted! Those guys are in here - not a lot, but still. You don't want to miss those stories!!!!
Jon has always been struggling in his life as a piano player and song writer. He plays in his brother's bar every night to at least make a bit of money. He wanted to make it big in the music business, but it hasn't happened. Yet. His wife always believed in him though. She wanted him to keep on chasing his dream.
And now he's even more lost. His beloved wife died two years ago and he has to raise his three little daughters all by himself. His mom and his brother help, but it's still really hard. He's so lost in his grief that he doesn't know how he survives each day. But he has to - his girls need him.
Enter Tess.
She's a writer - who has kind of never written a book. But she really wants to. Has to. And now her grandmother has given her the chance to pursue that dream. She moved in with the old lady - to take care of her. Having to pay no rent and with a lot of time to write, Tessa should be over the moon happy. But she's not. She just can't find her muse.
But then she finds a little side job ... babysitting for Jon's girls.
Tess is fascinated by that beautiful but so very sad man!
He's the inspiration she needed to write her book. But he's so much more too.
And with every day Jon feels more for Tess too, but he just can't! At least he thinks he can't fall for her - it would be cheating. Right?
Plus Tess is afraid that once he finds out he's the muse behind her book - he will hate her!
What will happen to Tess & Jon & the girls?
Will we get our happily ever after?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
════════════════
I just adore #RockstarRomances!
This was not really a rock star romance though. It's more of a ... hm.... A second-chance-at-life-and-love novel. How to start living again after you've lost half of your soul.
But of course it's not all über-sad and heartbreaking. We have beautiful music moments. Adorable little girl moments. And romantic and sweet Tess and Jon moments.
But the whole book is still this really emotional getting-over-your-grief book. And I loved it so much.
Which sounds stupid really. But it was so sweet and heartbreaking and ugh. I loved Jon and his girls and Tess!
And we got to see Devin & Sebastian again too!
I felt so like Tess in some scenes - the 90's fangirl. Only I'm not a fangirl - I'm old - I really witnessed that decade - and I loved it. The music. Jordan Catalano. All of it!☺
I just adored this book.
It's so beautifully written - so full of love and hope and family and ... yes, I'm saying it:
ALL THE FEELS! ☺
And the cover is so pretty!!!
TELL ME GOODNIGHT was such an adorable & heartbreaking love story. Just Beautiful.
Run to your nearest amazon for your own Jon - he'll be sold out in no time!
Tiny little thing I hated - which slightly connects to my mega hate of religion, because it's also so typical American. Home-schooling. No idea why I hate it so much, but it's so cult-ish and religious and weird to me. I just hate it. Even if it's not true, I kind of feel like all kids that have been homeschooled are either going to end up in a church/cult or in an episode of Criminal Minds! ☺ I would be ok with it for rock star purposes - when the star wants to take his family with him on tour - if they're gone all year - ok. But that's the only excuse.
Oh - while I was writing this another thing came to mind. One Direction.
How can a guy in his thirties even for one second think that One Direction is the best boyband ever??? That's just ridiculous. No guy in his thirties has ever heard of that band. Jon might know them because he has to play some songs by request at the bar, but still. There's so much more quality to choose from. Like 98° for example - those guys really have a voice. ☺
Jeez - while writing THIS, I thought of another thing. Jon is a little too old for my liking. He was married for over 10 years and I just can't imagine what his life with his wife was like before kids. I just can't see it. He should've been a few years younger - that would've made more sense.
BUT - I still really loved the book - even if it doesn't sound like it! LOL ☺
♡
♡
Want to read
November 8, 2019NOW ONLY 99 CENTS FOR A LIMITED TIME
http://mybook.to/tellmegoodnight
(FREE on KINDLE UNLIMTED)
http://mybook.to/tellmegoodnight
(FREE on KINDLE UNLIMTED)
April 22, 2019
All of Kelsey Kingsley's books have moved me beyond belief. Tessa and Jon's story is no different. Heartbreakingly sad but uplifting at the same time. You will cherish each moment and adore Tessa's grandmother, and write down all the little pearls of wisdom grandma shares.
Another must read by Kelsey!
Another must read by Kelsey!
May 16, 2019
Did you ever open a book and know immediately you were going to love it? That this book was going to pull you all the way in wether or not you wanted it to or not? Did you also know that your emotions were in for a roller coaster of a ride? Yet, you kept going? Prepared to be breathless by the end of said ride (book)? Yup, that’s this book. I’m only at 13% and I had to stop to write this part of my review. I am already invested into the attention of the finer details of Tessa and what she is picking up and it’s just the beginning. I will continue this review either when I’m finished or continue to interrupt my reading flow. I have to follow my instincts. Don’t want to lose my thoughts. Think of this as my screenplay of emotion and feelings on this book.
I love Tessa insights, “Every job begins with strangers”. When you read this line it’s very perceptive and so pertinent to what’s going on within the story. You have to love a book that uses the word, “cahoots”. I don’t want to give any spoilers or take away from your enjoyment of the story. You should really read this yourself. It’s so worth the read.
What I found after staying up all night and reading straight through, (why you ask, because I couldn’t put it down),the author took very realistic situations and made them relatable, the conversations are real and true, the attention to detail explicit. There is a scene in the book where Jon explains about the elderly. I felt like he was talking directly to me because the entire situation and scene applied to my mother. The author nailed it completely. It tore me up. She talks about people getting old and how they act towards the ones they love. Their fears, their lack of social graces, which I admit made me laugh, because it’s so true.
When she talks about Jon and how he interacts with his little girls it moved me so deeply. He was a dad willing to do everything for his girls to make them happy, even though he was just trying to navigate through life one day at a time. I must admit there was a moment I was annoyed by him because I thought he was being hypocritical. However, isn’t that the way life can be? We don’t see clearly and make assumptions? Believe me Tessa was no saint. She was as confused with her life as Jon was. Yet, being the strong woman she was she moved forward and did what needed to be done. If you ever experienced loss and heartbreak moving forward it’s so hard. No one can give you a timeline. It’s an individual experience. Every person, even within a family, moves or doesn’t at their own pace.
Another part of this story that I loved is we get to see favorite characters from past books. Believe me, this is a standalone but once you read this book you will want to go read the authors other books. She cuts through all the bull and goes straight to your heart and does it in such a beautiful way with her words. When someone writes like this I feel they know the subject matter in a way that’s much more personal than research. That’s just my opinion.
Can you tell I adore this book. Another point I want to make is that the cover is stunning and goes to the heart of the story. There is so much to this book that I want to talk about because the truth is in the details but it’s not fair to you or the author. You deserve to read this story. I know this isn’t a regular or formulated review but I felt I really couldn’t do this any other way. To the author I say, thank you for inviting me into this beautiful family. I was captivated. In my opinion this is a masterpiece and one of my favorite reads of 2019.
I love Tessa insights, “Every job begins with strangers”. When you read this line it’s very perceptive and so pertinent to what’s going on within the story. You have to love a book that uses the word, “cahoots”. I don’t want to give any spoilers or take away from your enjoyment of the story. You should really read this yourself. It’s so worth the read.
What I found after staying up all night and reading straight through, (why you ask, because I couldn’t put it down),the author took very realistic situations and made them relatable, the conversations are real and true, the attention to detail explicit. There is a scene in the book where Jon explains about the elderly. I felt like he was talking directly to me because the entire situation and scene applied to my mother. The author nailed it completely. It tore me up. She talks about people getting old and how they act towards the ones they love. Their fears, their lack of social graces, which I admit made me laugh, because it’s so true.
When she talks about Jon and how he interacts with his little girls it moved me so deeply. He was a dad willing to do everything for his girls to make them happy, even though he was just trying to navigate through life one day at a time. I must admit there was a moment I was annoyed by him because I thought he was being hypocritical. However, isn’t that the way life can be? We don’t see clearly and make assumptions? Believe me Tessa was no saint. She was as confused with her life as Jon was. Yet, being the strong woman she was she moved forward and did what needed to be done. If you ever experienced loss and heartbreak moving forward it’s so hard. No one can give you a timeline. It’s an individual experience. Every person, even within a family, moves or doesn’t at their own pace.
Another part of this story that I loved is we get to see favorite characters from past books. Believe me, this is a standalone but once you read this book you will want to go read the authors other books. She cuts through all the bull and goes straight to your heart and does it in such a beautiful way with her words. When someone writes like this I feel they know the subject matter in a way that’s much more personal than research. That’s just my opinion.
Can you tell I adore this book. Another point I want to make is that the cover is stunning and goes to the heart of the story. There is so much to this book that I want to talk about because the truth is in the details but it’s not fair to you or the author. You deserve to read this story. I know this isn’t a regular or formulated review but I felt I really couldn’t do this any other way. To the author I say, thank you for inviting me into this beautiful family. I was captivated. In my opinion this is a masterpiece and one of my favorite reads of 2019.
May 20, 2019
I have been trying to gather my thoughts to write this review since yesterday. I have no words that could possibly convey how much this book touched my soul. Kelsey Kingsley took a broken man with 3 of the cutest little girls and made him whole in a way that only Kelsey Kingsley can. The words she writes, the feelings that she is able to convey, the imagery that she is able to draw in written words, and the emotions that she makes me feel are truly magical. There are so many words, sentences and paragraphs I highlighted in this book (and that in and of itself is unusual for me) but the one that sticks with me is "sometimes the most magic can be found in simplicity". Look at the cover of the book....it is simple but absolutely beautiful and when you open the book and begin reading you will discover the magic that lies within. 5 stars aren't nearly enough! This one will stick with me for years to come.
May 24, 2019
First of all, read the note from the author at the beginning of this book, because, WOW. And yes, Ms. Kingsley, this is definitely one of those books for me. I flew through the pages, all the while trying desperately to draw out the reading, to dwell in the emotion, to savor living in these words, and hoping upon hope that it would never end. Kingsley isn’t simply an author. She's a poet and a master composer, and her words plucked the chords of my heart in a beautiful, haunting, unforgettable symphony. If you don’t like long reviews, I’ll tell you now: get this unique, stunning, life-changing book today!
This is not your carefree, light hearted romance. It’s so much better, greater and more than that. It’s raw and authentic with pain that bleeds off the page and happiness that makes the reader's heart soar to the greatest heights. It’s a realistic depiction of loss that leaves a gaping hole and the guilt of healing and moving on. It's grief so devastating that every day is like slogging through mud, but a healing so precious that it inspires rebirth. It’s the story of one broken soul and one lost soul and the three precious girls that unite these two soul mates.
Jon lost his wife two years ago and every day he struggles just to do the bare minimum. He has to take care of his three young daughters, and he has to continue working for his meager income playing the piano at his brother's bar. Everything else falls by the wayside – his appearance and health at the very bottom of the list. Before he lost his wife, he had dreams of making it big with his music, but that dream doesn’t even make the list these days.
Tessa has moved in with her grandmother, a famous romantic thriller author, to ensure Grandma doesn’t burn down the house in her forgetfulness. The deal is that Tessa lives rent free while working on writing her novel. Its been six month’s and she has zero words written, so she decides to find a job. She has bills to pay, and it will get her out of the house. Maybe interactions with more than Grandma and her regular date, Richard Dawson of Family Feud, will inspire Tessa's writing. And it might feel good to feel needed and wanted, because Grandma's combative personality certainly doesn’t leave Tessa feeling warm and fuzzy.
Tessa spots a help wanted sign for a bartender and decides to apply. While she's filling out the application and trying to fabricate a work history, she’s befriended by the most adorable four-year-old princess. Fast forward a few weeks, and Tessa is babysitting Jon's girls and falling way too far for this broken man, who's still in love with his dead wife, and his three little princesses. But over time, and through a ritual of a shared cup of tea with Jon when he comes home from work, things slowly change. Tessa begins to write, inspired by Jon and his girls. Jon inches closer to moving forward with his life and his long dormant dream finds new life.
There is so much wisdom and insight in these ingenious words that they sucked me in, swirling around me in a vortex of thoughts and feelings and carrying me along the dips and swells of the characters experiences and emotions so that I lived everything with them along this voyage. With snippets of Tessa's writing and Jon's lyrics that are so beautiful I could hear the melody along with the words, this book consumed me, mesmerized me, filled me and owned me completely. Mere words can never explain and express the impact of this poignant, profound, evocative work.
And if that isn’t enough, we’re gifted with appearances of Devin and his band mates. I adore all of these guys! Devin, the giant teddy bear, Sebastian with his crass humor and irreverence, and Chad and Ty who I can’t wait to learn more about. Jon, Tessa and the girls fit right in with this band family.
More, Ms. Kingsley. I need more! My heart can’t exist without more of these amazing characters! This book is the most unique, exquisite gem in contemporary romance. Rarely does a book come along that touches my heart, stirs my soul and has such a lasting impact. These characters will live in my heart forever, and this book easily takes the #1 spot, at the very top of the list of books I’ve read this year. Get it now. Start reading now. Your heart will soar, your soul will sing, and you absolutely will not be sorry.
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
This is not your carefree, light hearted romance. It’s so much better, greater and more than that. It’s raw and authentic with pain that bleeds off the page and happiness that makes the reader's heart soar to the greatest heights. It’s a realistic depiction of loss that leaves a gaping hole and the guilt of healing and moving on. It's grief so devastating that every day is like slogging through mud, but a healing so precious that it inspires rebirth. It’s the story of one broken soul and one lost soul and the three precious girls that unite these two soul mates.
Jon lost his wife two years ago and every day he struggles just to do the bare minimum. He has to take care of his three young daughters, and he has to continue working for his meager income playing the piano at his brother's bar. Everything else falls by the wayside – his appearance and health at the very bottom of the list. Before he lost his wife, he had dreams of making it big with his music, but that dream doesn’t even make the list these days.
Tessa has moved in with her grandmother, a famous romantic thriller author, to ensure Grandma doesn’t burn down the house in her forgetfulness. The deal is that Tessa lives rent free while working on writing her novel. Its been six month’s and she has zero words written, so she decides to find a job. She has bills to pay, and it will get her out of the house. Maybe interactions with more than Grandma and her regular date, Richard Dawson of Family Feud, will inspire Tessa's writing. And it might feel good to feel needed and wanted, because Grandma's combative personality certainly doesn’t leave Tessa feeling warm and fuzzy.
Tessa spots a help wanted sign for a bartender and decides to apply. While she's filling out the application and trying to fabricate a work history, she’s befriended by the most adorable four-year-old princess. Fast forward a few weeks, and Tessa is babysitting Jon's girls and falling way too far for this broken man, who's still in love with his dead wife, and his three little princesses. But over time, and through a ritual of a shared cup of tea with Jon when he comes home from work, things slowly change. Tessa begins to write, inspired by Jon and his girls. Jon inches closer to moving forward with his life and his long dormant dream finds new life.
There is so much wisdom and insight in these ingenious words that they sucked me in, swirling around me in a vortex of thoughts and feelings and carrying me along the dips and swells of the characters experiences and emotions so that I lived everything with them along this voyage. With snippets of Tessa's writing and Jon's lyrics that are so beautiful I could hear the melody along with the words, this book consumed me, mesmerized me, filled me and owned me completely. Mere words can never explain and express the impact of this poignant, profound, evocative work.
And if that isn’t enough, we’re gifted with appearances of Devin and his band mates. I adore all of these guys! Devin, the giant teddy bear, Sebastian with his crass humor and irreverence, and Chad and Ty who I can’t wait to learn more about. Jon, Tessa and the girls fit right in with this band family.
More, Ms. Kingsley. I need more! My heart can’t exist without more of these amazing characters! This book is the most unique, exquisite gem in contemporary romance. Rarely does a book come along that touches my heart, stirs my soul and has such a lasting impact. These characters will live in my heart forever, and this book easily takes the #1 spot, at the very top of the list of books I’ve read this year. Get it now. Start reading now. Your heart will soar, your soul will sing, and you absolutely will not be sorry.
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
May 16, 2019
"Tell me you love me and tell me goodnight."
Cue the crying. The ugly face, massive tears, and deep sobbing crying.
So rarely have I ever read a book in which I was completely engrossed by the end of the prologue. Kelsey has truly written a work of art. This story immediately grabs your heart and holds it hostage until the very last word.
I experienced every emotion under the sun reading this story.
Tess is everything you wish you could be. She is strong and resilient. She finds the silver linings. She is completely obsessed with 90’s music. She is someone who thinks and acts with her whole heart. She cares so deeply and passionately for each of her interactions in the story. She is amazing.
Jon is breathtakingly heartbreaking. He is an amazing father – one who loves so strongly, even in heartbreak, that you can feel the depth of his love for his daughters in every single interaction with them. I absolutely LOVE that he encourages them to be themselves. He is the definition of a swoon-tastic single father.
I refuse to write a review with spoilers, which only makes writing this review difficult. The heartbreak and slow burn between the main characters leaves you breathless with each chapter. I cried witnessing Jon’s pain and laughed with every humorous or sarcastic dialogue with the characters. I cheered and smiled with each win and felt the frustration of loss.
Let us not forget the amazingness that is Devin, Sebastian, Chad, and Ty. Their cameos are everything you would expect knowing their previous stories and truly add to the laughter this book needed.
I lived for the music references, as I do in all of Kelsey’s books. She has a way of entwining music of relevance at the perfect moments. If you ever listened to 90’s pop, you will immediately understand the emotions and headspace of the characters as they discuss the references.
This book was so much better than I ever hoped it would be. Kelsey’s ability to navigate through treacherous emotions of the characters is stunning at every level. A story within a story at the beginning of every chapter was brilliant and led to beautiful insights from Tess.
This book was amazing, and I would definitely recommend a one-click to anyone who enjoys HEA from heartbreak – well anyone, really. Just buy it. You won’t regret it.
Although I normally hope for a little more heat in romance stories, this book was so darn good that it was fine without it. It wasn’t necessary.
And as always from my reviews… my favorite quotes from the book:
“But although I protested, I put my pen to the blank page. And I bled.”
“… simply always just played from memory and not from my heart, but tonight, I poured every emotion into my craft. And when I looked out to the faces in my audience, I knew I was pouring into them as well.”
“Tess’s eyes were more captivating, more entrancing. Just more.”
Cue the crying. The ugly face, massive tears, and deep sobbing crying.
So rarely have I ever read a book in which I was completely engrossed by the end of the prologue. Kelsey has truly written a work of art. This story immediately grabs your heart and holds it hostage until the very last word.
I experienced every emotion under the sun reading this story.
Tess is everything you wish you could be. She is strong and resilient. She finds the silver linings. She is completely obsessed with 90’s music. She is someone who thinks and acts with her whole heart. She cares so deeply and passionately for each of her interactions in the story. She is amazing.
Jon is breathtakingly heartbreaking. He is an amazing father – one who loves so strongly, even in heartbreak, that you can feel the depth of his love for his daughters in every single interaction with them. I absolutely LOVE that he encourages them to be themselves. He is the definition of a swoon-tastic single father.
I refuse to write a review with spoilers, which only makes writing this review difficult. The heartbreak and slow burn between the main characters leaves you breathless with each chapter. I cried witnessing Jon’s pain and laughed with every humorous or sarcastic dialogue with the characters. I cheered and smiled with each win and felt the frustration of loss.
Let us not forget the amazingness that is Devin, Sebastian, Chad, and Ty. Their cameos are everything you would expect knowing their previous stories and truly add to the laughter this book needed.
I lived for the music references, as I do in all of Kelsey’s books. She has a way of entwining music of relevance at the perfect moments. If you ever listened to 90’s pop, you will immediately understand the emotions and headspace of the characters as they discuss the references.
This book was so much better than I ever hoped it would be. Kelsey’s ability to navigate through treacherous emotions of the characters is stunning at every level. A story within a story at the beginning of every chapter was brilliant and led to beautiful insights from Tess.
This book was amazing, and I would definitely recommend a one-click to anyone who enjoys HEA from heartbreak – well anyone, really. Just buy it. You won’t regret it.
Although I normally hope for a little more heat in romance stories, this book was so darn good that it was fine without it. It wasn’t necessary.
And as always from my reviews… my favorite quotes from the book:
“But although I protested, I put my pen to the blank page. And I bled.”
“… simply always just played from memory and not from my heart, but tonight, I poured every emotion into my craft. And when I looked out to the faces in my audience, I knew I was pouring into them as well.”
“Tess’s eyes were more captivating, more entrancing. Just more.”
May 22, 2019
Absolute perfection!!!! I’m a fan of this author, and have read all of her books. This one I think has become my new favorite. She has put her whole heart into this book and it shows. You will feel all the emotions with this one. I found myself reading slowly so I could savor every word. It’s a beautiful story about loss and finding love again. Jon is a widower with three girls, and he’s just going through the motions of life. Enter Tess. She’s a breath of fresh air for this little family. Needing to escape her own life a little, she takes the position of babysitter. Is it possible for Jon to move on without letting go? Can a person love again after such a loss? I can’t recommend this book enough.
May 19, 2019
I had to process for a minute before I could write this. I was the oldest of three girls raised by a single Daddy, so my heart y’all♥️ (my Daddy died in 2010)I needed first off to condense this, so I didn’t write a novel myself about all the things I loved about this book. I also don’t want to give away any spoilers, because I think everyone should enjoy this book in its truest form, and that’s to go into it as I did. Only knowing what the blurb told me. Tell Me Goodnight is the heartbreakingly beautiful tale of Jon and Tessa’s journey. Jon is our devastated Hero that has been living the past couple of years struggling to get by and dealing with some hard core survivors guilt. It literally takes everything and every bit of energy he has to take care of his three adorable daughters. He’s struggling y’all! Tessa Lang turns Jon and his girls world on its axis when she arrives in town to care for her grandmother, who’s health is declining. She plans to follow in her grandmothers footsteps and write her first novel while she is living and caring for her grandmother. When Tessa meets Jon’s brother Jeff, he offers her a job babysitting Jon’s children in her spare time. Tessa has been struggling with a severe case of writers block. However, instantly after meeting Jon and his girls she is hit with inspiration and seems as she has found her muse, and maybe something even more with Jon. Jon is not prepared for the strong feelings or guilt that comes with when he starts developing them for Tessa, nor how well she quickly fits into his family. I love that this is a slow-burn romance. They formed such a fantastic friendship. It was organic and authentic and such a joy to read the development of it. However, like in life there are ups and downs and there’s devastation and it’s messy , sad stuff happens. This is not a fluff story. Yet, there are some funny parts in there too with kiddos and some of the great secondary characters as well. If your looking for a story that won’t hit you in the feels and make you cry. This isn’t the story for you. These characters were broken,they had to be, so that the author could put them back together stronger than before. This is a wonderful story of second chances and life after devastating loss. It’s a story of hope and forgiveness, a story about working hard and dreams coming true. It’s a story about realizing that sometimes your new chance might be your true chance and that just because you thought things were supposed to be a certain way doesn’t mean they will. Things do truly happen for a reason. Ladies and Gentlemen, you never look a second chance gift horse in the mouth. Mount that sucker and ride off into the sunset with your Prince or Princess and always “Tell them you Love them and Goodnight” 👑💖😍 I highly recommend this book. Have tissues on hand, but definitely read this book. 💙🖤💙🖤⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2019
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. When I first heard about tell me goodnight I had this feeling it might not be for me. It was just a string feeling I had. Kelsey doll you more than proved me wrong. Tell me goodnight captivated me from the very first page to the very lady page. It was nothing like I expected it to be. It was just so much more. I fell in love with all these characters, there life for some reason this one just felt so real. It was extremely emotional, the feelings this book brings are not your average everyday book life. Now I'm so excited for Chad's story. I also loved getting more of Devin.
May 19, 2019
I first read Tell Me Goodnight as a beta read. I knew then that Ms. Kingsley had another 5-star read.
I thrive on emotional stories....they are really the ones I gravitate towards. TMG was all that and more. My emotions played out right beside Tess and Jon’s. Jon’s story gave me the heartbreak I craved.....plus his three little girls gave me the heartwarming feels that I also needed.
Tell Me Goodnight is another representation of how Ms. Kingsley can build a story of love, sadness, and rebirth.
I thrive on emotional stories....they are really the ones I gravitate towards. TMG was all that and more. My emotions played out right beside Tess and Jon’s. Jon’s story gave me the heartbreak I craved.....plus his three little girls gave me the heartwarming feels that I also needed.
Tell Me Goodnight is another representation of how Ms. Kingsley can build a story of love, sadness, and rebirth.
Read
May 24, 2019I have loved Kelsey Kingsley's writing since her first release, and each book has been better than the last. This one truly touched me in a profound way. The writing is exquisite, the story poignant, the characters colourful and beautifully flawed. I laughed so many times, shed a copious number of tears, and was absolutely devastated and thrilled simultaneously when the story came to an end. A fabulous book that should be on your list of books to cancel plans for.
May 19, 2019
I actually Won this ARC and read it days ago so im a bit behind.
This was my first book by this author and i have to say it was good written well and the storyline was sweet but sad.
I do prefer to read dark romance books with plenty of angst and fuckeduppery but this was actually nice change of style and pace for me!
This was my first book by this author and i have to say it was good written well and the storyline was sweet but sad.
I do prefer to read dark romance books with plenty of angst and fuckeduppery but this was actually nice change of style and pace for me!
May 24, 2019
Kelsey Kingsley is one of my favourite authors and she did not disappoint with her latest book. It has all the feels! My emotions were all over the place. I loved Jon! Argh if I keep writing I am going to give the story away and I hate reading reviews like that. So all I am going to say is that if you like contemporary romance, and a little sadness doesn't put you off (because it does have a HEA) read this book. The characters grow and change right before your eyes. They could be your neighbours or friends they seem so real. Suffice it to say I LOVED this book!
May 19, 2019
Kelsey Kingsley has become an author I can't get enough of since I read The Life We Wanted (I'll never forget that story or Sebastian!) and then on to Daisies and Devin (out of order, I know!). Tell Me Goodnight is the 3rd book in this connected series and once again, she has floored me with her talent for writing from her heart straight into mine, wringing a full gamut of emotions out of me every single time. The story behind the title was so sweet, touching and it weaves its way throughout the book.
So, on to the story. Jon is a man who has lost his 'Joie de vivre', his reason to be. It's been 2 years since his wife unexpectedly passed away and besides his 3 adorable young daughters, there isn't much else that keeps him going. He used to love playing the piano, he's so talented, but now?- phoning it in, writing new music?- NO! too painful, dating?- never, but sadness and guilt?- that he has in spades. His family sacrificed so much so he could pursue his dream of a career in music and he's gotten nowhere, still playing Billy Joel covers night after night in his brothers bar. Boring and soul stealing, that's what it is!
Tessa moved in with her elderly Grandma to take care of her while writing her 1st book..ugh..what book? She has lost her inspiration, needs to escape the funk she's in and get away from Grandma's Family Feud reruns for a few hours a day.
A chance meeting with a sweet little 'princess' in a bar, of all places, is where Ms. Fate will push Tessa right into the path of Jon, the sad and lonely widower who has also lost his muse. Maybe Fate had this planned all along! Fate you crazy thing you, I love how you think!
I ADORED THIS BOOK! I really don't want to say too much because you should experience it firsthand. The characters of Jon and Tess- totally loved them both, perfectly written. Those little darling girls- adorable and precocious, Grandma-snitty and sassy. Even the cat had personality. Fans of the previous 2 books might see a few familiar faces here and there, loved that too!
So, get yourself a box of tissues and a comfy chair so you don't have to move at all while you read this exceptional story. Tears and laughter, sad- but funny too. Touching, tender, uplifting and filled with hope and faith in love, but there is so much more to discover in this beautifully written story.
I'll admit to still being awake at 4 am, when my husband said 'are you really still reading?' Of course I was, how could I sleep when I needed to find out the ending for Jon and Tess??? This is what Kelsey does to me, heart- stolen, mind- blown, sleep..who cares??? I can't wait for the next book so I can lose sleep once again.
An early copy was offered and happily received. This is my honest review of it.
So, on to the story. Jon is a man who has lost his 'Joie de vivre', his reason to be. It's been 2 years since his wife unexpectedly passed away and besides his 3 adorable young daughters, there isn't much else that keeps him going. He used to love playing the piano, he's so talented, but now?- phoning it in, writing new music?- NO! too painful, dating?- never, but sadness and guilt?- that he has in spades. His family sacrificed so much so he could pursue his dream of a career in music and he's gotten nowhere, still playing Billy Joel covers night after night in his brothers bar. Boring and soul stealing, that's what it is!
Tessa moved in with her elderly Grandma to take care of her while writing her 1st book..ugh..what book? She has lost her inspiration, needs to escape the funk she's in and get away from Grandma's Family Feud reruns for a few hours a day.
A chance meeting with a sweet little 'princess' in a bar, of all places, is where Ms. Fate will push Tessa right into the path of Jon, the sad and lonely widower who has also lost his muse. Maybe Fate had this planned all along! Fate you crazy thing you, I love how you think!
I ADORED THIS BOOK! I really don't want to say too much because you should experience it firsthand. The characters of Jon and Tess- totally loved them both, perfectly written. Those little darling girls- adorable and precocious, Grandma-snitty and sassy. Even the cat had personality. Fans of the previous 2 books might see a few familiar faces here and there, loved that too!
So, get yourself a box of tissues and a comfy chair so you don't have to move at all while you read this exceptional story. Tears and laughter, sad- but funny too. Touching, tender, uplifting and filled with hope and faith in love, but there is so much more to discover in this beautifully written story.
I'll admit to still being awake at 4 am, when my husband said 'are you really still reading?' Of course I was, how could I sleep when I needed to find out the ending for Jon and Tess??? This is what Kelsey does to me, heart- stolen, mind- blown, sleep..who cares??? I can't wait for the next book so I can lose sleep once again.
An early copy was offered and happily received. This is my honest review of it.
August 10, 2019
If I could give more than a 5 star rating, I totally would. This novel needs all the stars. 💖
- Tell me you love me and tell me Goodnight.
"This is the story of how I fell in love with a broken man and his three little princesses. It is tragic, but it is true. And with truth, there is always tragedy."
Grab your tissues, you are definitely going to need them.
This is another beautiful, beautiful! novel written by Kelsey Kingsley. I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this novel: and I have cried (numerous times), I have laughed, and I have awwed many - many times! I always look forward to reading more Kelsey Kingsley novels. 📚❤
"Sometimes the most magic can be found in simplicity."
- Tell me you love me and tell me Goodnight.
"This is the story of how I fell in love with a broken man and his three little princesses. It is tragic, but it is true. And with truth, there is always tragedy."
Grab your tissues, you are definitely going to need them.
This is another beautiful, beautiful! novel written by Kelsey Kingsley. I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this novel: and I have cried (numerous times), I have laughed, and I have awwed many - many times! I always look forward to reading more Kelsey Kingsley novels. 📚❤
"Sometimes the most magic can be found in simplicity."
May 20, 2019
Kingsley wrote my favorite book of 2019 in January, and I wondered how long it would stay at the top. Well, she now holds my top two spots of the year.
I am a reader, not a writer. I cannot do this book justice, but I will try.
Tell Me Goodnight is a sincerely emotional love story. It gives as much it takes. Jon and Tess are both stuck in unhappy places. Jon is two years into his grief of losing his wife, continuously floundering music career, and single dad of three little girls. Tess is spinning her wheels in her inability to write her novel and in caring for beloved grandmother, whose health is in rapid decline. Through caring for Jon’s girls, the two become friends. The recognition of kindred souls who know the struggle of artists who are aren’t creating makes for a strong bond. Tess’ optimistic nature buoys Jon and gives him the permission to “unstick” himself, even if it means taking a regular job instead of playing music as a career. That is his key to get him writing and performing again, taking his life in an unexpected direction. Tess finds her writing spark in Jon and his girls, and off they both go.
What I adore about Kingsley’s writing style is how relatable her characters are to a wide variety of readers. They aren’t shiny and fancy. They wear the bumps and bruises of life, and they persist. She weaves grief and loss among small smiles and moments of joy so the story never feels oppressive or voyeuristic. She writes two creative characters, but even I understand what drives them. While sad, there is sweetness and humor and a slow burn friendship-turned-romance that makes every page so special. The simple joy of a tea party with the girls, a beer with a brother, a cup of tea shared, and the breakdown of the best boy band create the magic of the book where I smiled through tears. Add to that Sebastian (still my favorite KK character) from “The Life We Wanted” and three little girl’s brutal honesty, and you have so much levity.
Tell Me Goodnight is stunning in its balance. We watch Tess and Jon blossom in their relationship and careers while Tess’ grandmother fades. Tess wants nothing more than to be wanted and Jon fights his guilt over wanting Tess. He wants her to be a part of his success, but that success was the dream he had with his wife. How does someone move forward with a shared dream when the one you shared it with is gone? Tess’ grandmother offers poignant advice in her moments of clarity, and those are balanced with the frustration she feels as her independence and control slip away. Both Jon and Tess’ grandmother talk to their deceased spouses (as I think we all talk to those who are no longer with us). Both Jon and Tess find their muses, but only one celebrates the outcome. Even the heartbreak is beautifully done.
In the end, this is a story of love, loss, resiliency, and being true your passion. It is universally relatable and artfully written. Tell Me Goodnight is a must read.
I am a reader, not a writer. I cannot do this book justice, but I will try.
Tell Me Goodnight is a sincerely emotional love story. It gives as much it takes. Jon and Tess are both stuck in unhappy places. Jon is two years into his grief of losing his wife, continuously floundering music career, and single dad of three little girls. Tess is spinning her wheels in her inability to write her novel and in caring for beloved grandmother, whose health is in rapid decline. Through caring for Jon’s girls, the two become friends. The recognition of kindred souls who know the struggle of artists who are aren’t creating makes for a strong bond. Tess’ optimistic nature buoys Jon and gives him the permission to “unstick” himself, even if it means taking a regular job instead of playing music as a career. That is his key to get him writing and performing again, taking his life in an unexpected direction. Tess finds her writing spark in Jon and his girls, and off they both go.
What I adore about Kingsley’s writing style is how relatable her characters are to a wide variety of readers. They aren’t shiny and fancy. They wear the bumps and bruises of life, and they persist. She weaves grief and loss among small smiles and moments of joy so the story never feels oppressive or voyeuristic. She writes two creative characters, but even I understand what drives them. While sad, there is sweetness and humor and a slow burn friendship-turned-romance that makes every page so special. The simple joy of a tea party with the girls, a beer with a brother, a cup of tea shared, and the breakdown of the best boy band create the magic of the book where I smiled through tears. Add to that Sebastian (still my favorite KK character) from “The Life We Wanted” and three little girl’s brutal honesty, and you have so much levity.
Tell Me Goodnight is stunning in its balance. We watch Tess and Jon blossom in their relationship and careers while Tess’ grandmother fades. Tess wants nothing more than to be wanted and Jon fights his guilt over wanting Tess. He wants her to be a part of his success, but that success was the dream he had with his wife. How does someone move forward with a shared dream when the one you shared it with is gone? Tess’ grandmother offers poignant advice in her moments of clarity, and those are balanced with the frustration she feels as her independence and control slip away. Both Jon and Tess’ grandmother talk to their deceased spouses (as I think we all talk to those who are no longer with us). Both Jon and Tess find their muses, but only one celebrates the outcome. Even the heartbreak is beautifully done.
In the end, this is a story of love, loss, resiliency, and being true your passion. It is universally relatable and artfully written. Tell Me Goodnight is a must read.
May 16, 2019
"This is the story of how I fell in love with a broken man and his three little princesses. It is tragic, but it is true. And with truth, there is almost always tragedy."
Tell Me Goodnight is a beautiful love story. Kelsey Kingsley gives us heartache and happiness, loss and laughter, endings and new beginnings. If you're looking for some rock band party book, this isn't it. This story is about as real as you can get to real life. Tessa Lang is a young aspiring writer taking care of her aging grandmother. The day to day life of caring for her is not inspiring her work so she searches for something else to do to brighten up her days. That search leads her to widower Jon O'Dell and his three young daughters. Jon is in need of a sitter so he can perform at his brothers lounge as a piano player/singer. He and his late wife had dreamed of more. They had been working towards more but it hadn't happened and now he has lost the drive for more. Tess is one of those people that want to help others. She wanted to help her grandmother an felt that she wasn't so now she wants to help Jon and his daughters. Tell Me Goodnight is the story about how Fate had other plans for Jon and Tess and how life is constantly changing whether we want it to or not. I cannot give you any more without spoiling this beautiful love story. I can tell you that this story stands alone but you will see Devin and Kylie from Daises and Devin and Sebastian and Tabby from The Life We Wanted. It is not necessary to read either of those books but if you haven't I highly recommend them because they are great books as well. Tell Me Goodnight is written from dual POV and I highly recommend it as well as having a box of Kleenex on hand because this story is a beautiful cry.
Tell Me Goodnight is a beautiful love story. Kelsey Kingsley gives us heartache and happiness, loss and laughter, endings and new beginnings. If you're looking for some rock band party book, this isn't it. This story is about as real as you can get to real life. Tessa Lang is a young aspiring writer taking care of her aging grandmother. The day to day life of caring for her is not inspiring her work so she searches for something else to do to brighten up her days. That search leads her to widower Jon O'Dell and his three young daughters. Jon is in need of a sitter so he can perform at his brothers lounge as a piano player/singer. He and his late wife had dreamed of more. They had been working towards more but it hadn't happened and now he has lost the drive for more. Tess is one of those people that want to help others. She wanted to help her grandmother an felt that she wasn't so now she wants to help Jon and his daughters. Tell Me Goodnight is the story about how Fate had other plans for Jon and Tess and how life is constantly changing whether we want it to or not. I cannot give you any more without spoiling this beautiful love story. I can tell you that this story stands alone but you will see Devin and Kylie from Daises and Devin and Sebastian and Tabby from The Life We Wanted. It is not necessary to read either of those books but if you haven't I highly recommend them because they are great books as well. Tell Me Goodnight is written from dual POV and I highly recommend it as well as having a box of Kleenex on hand because this story is a beautiful cry.
May 15, 2019
4.5 Tea & Tiaras Stars
That opening prologue grabbed me and I just knew the ride would be bumpy. But the best part was knowing that with those bumps, Tell Me Goodnight was going to take me on a beautiful journey and that the path to happiness isn’t always an easy one but so worth the fight.
Jon O’Dell is a sweet, loving man. His need to be a good father and provider is evident. His feelings of sadness and guilt are so acute, but his devotion to his daughters was abundant. Tessa Lang is a caregiver. I could feel it in my bones. She has so much love to share. Her interactions with her grandmother are heartwarming and hilarious. And her struggle to do the right thing always at the front of her thoughts.
I don’t know how to explain it, but Ms. Kingsley’s writing is just so easy yet so emotive. Jon’s sweet girls are the best. Their innocence is bar none. Tess’s grandma gives the best advice. Family is so important and play such a vital role in their lives. It’s one of the main reasons I love her writing. And it doesn’t hurt to throw some of my favorites in there too (ahem Sebastian and Devin)!
A story full of ups and downs, love and everything it has to offer with some great comic relief mixed in to lift the sometimes heavy load, Tell Me Goodnight left me with that happy, heart full feeling and that’s exactly what I want when I’m done reading.
That opening prologue grabbed me and I just knew the ride would be bumpy. But the best part was knowing that with those bumps, Tell Me Goodnight was going to take me on a beautiful journey and that the path to happiness isn’t always an easy one but so worth the fight.
Jon O’Dell is a sweet, loving man. His need to be a good father and provider is evident. His feelings of sadness and guilt are so acute, but his devotion to his daughters was abundant. Tessa Lang is a caregiver. I could feel it in my bones. She has so much love to share. Her interactions with her grandmother are heartwarming and hilarious. And her struggle to do the right thing always at the front of her thoughts.
I don’t know how to explain it, but Ms. Kingsley’s writing is just so easy yet so emotive. Jon’s sweet girls are the best. Their innocence is bar none. Tess’s grandma gives the best advice. Family is so important and play such a vital role in their lives. It’s one of the main reasons I love her writing. And it doesn’t hurt to throw some of my favorites in there too (ahem Sebastian and Devin)!
A story full of ups and downs, love and everything it has to offer with some great comic relief mixed in to lift the sometimes heavy load, Tell Me Goodnight left me with that happy, heart full feeling and that’s exactly what I want when I’m done reading.
May 20, 2019
Tell Me Goodnight by Kelsey Kingsley is an emotional, slow burn, contemporary romance told in first person, dual POV. It's a standalone that takes place in the same world as
Daisies & Devin
and
The Life We Wanted.
Although it's not necessary to have read them first, I highly recommend it because they're outstanding stories with wonderful characters that make appearances in subsequent books.
Jon O'Dell is a struggling pianist, songwriter, single parent of three little girls, and grieving widower. He lost his wife two years ago and has remained broken, stuck in his grief, unable and unwilling to move on. A loving father, he only manages to keep it together for his girls.
Tessa Lang is an aspiring author living with her aging grandmother as her caretaker while working on her first novel, but she's also stuck. Her attempts at writing horror feel forced and unnatural, and Grandma has become increasingly difficult to deal with. She needs a break and she needs some inspiration.
When Tess takes a job babysitting Jon's girls, she finds her creative muse. She's intrigued and fascinated by the handsome, tragically sad, single father. After each interaction with him, the words just pour out as she's inspired to write a romance. Jon is drawn to the beautiful babysitter but struggles with guilty feelings of betraying his wife.
Jon and Tess develop a friendship as she cares for his daughters. Before she even realizes it, Tess has not only fallen for the little girls but also for their father. Will Jon ever be ready and willing to move on? And how will he feel about Tess using him for inspiration? What will happen when he finds out what she's been writing?
I absolutely loved this story! So much in fact, that I'm not even sure how to accurately convey it. I think the last time I was so emotionally invested and affected by a story was when I read The Life We Wanted. I don't know how it's possible to continually outdo oneself, but Kelsey Kingsley does it time and time again as each book she writes is better than the last. Tell Me Goodnight was no exception. It's a beautifully written, emotionally complex, character-driven story. Deeply moving, tragic, realistic, heartbreaking, hopeful, romantic, and endearing. This is easily one of my favorite books of 2019. I highly recommend it!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Jon O'Dell is a struggling pianist, songwriter, single parent of three little girls, and grieving widower. He lost his wife two years ago and has remained broken, stuck in his grief, unable and unwilling to move on. A loving father, he only manages to keep it together for his girls.
Tessa Lang is an aspiring author living with her aging grandmother as her caretaker while working on her first novel, but she's also stuck. Her attempts at writing horror feel forced and unnatural, and Grandma has become increasingly difficult to deal with. She needs a break and she needs some inspiration.
When Tess takes a job babysitting Jon's girls, she finds her creative muse. She's intrigued and fascinated by the handsome, tragically sad, single father. After each interaction with him, the words just pour out as she's inspired to write a romance. Jon is drawn to the beautiful babysitter but struggles with guilty feelings of betraying his wife.
Jon and Tess develop a friendship as she cares for his daughters. Before she even realizes it, Tess has not only fallen for the little girls but also for their father. Will Jon ever be ready and willing to move on? And how will he feel about Tess using him for inspiration? What will happen when he finds out what she's been writing?
I absolutely loved this story! So much in fact, that I'm not even sure how to accurately convey it. I think the last time I was so emotionally invested and affected by a story was when I read The Life We Wanted. I don't know how it's possible to continually outdo oneself, but Kelsey Kingsley does it time and time again as each book she writes is better than the last. Tell Me Goodnight was no exception. It's a beautifully written, emotionally complex, character-driven story. Deeply moving, tragic, realistic, heartbreaking, hopeful, romantic, and endearing. This is easily one of my favorite books of 2019. I highly recommend it!
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
May 24, 2019
After a couple of days of processing, trying to figure out who my favorite character was, and what I liked best about this book, I am no closer to having the answers than I was while reading. Grandma Lang was my favorite. A once best selling author who traveled the world is now in declining health. She wants the best for her granddaughter, Tess, a struggling author "to be" if she could ever just finish her first book. Tess was also my favorite for a million tiny reasons that spoke so highly of her character. The fact that she loved the 90's cemented my love for her. John, a widower, and struggling musician is the father of 3 little girls. He experiences so much growth throughout this story and he quickly became another favorite. The little girls, OH MY GOODNESS! They were spectacular, so cute, so much personality! I love them!!! Finally, I resigned to the fact that they were all my favorite. The storyline drew me in and kept me wanting more right up until the very satisfying end. Kelsey' s writing shows so much growth as an author with each and every book she writes, and I love her dearly. I feel like she and Tess may share several characteristics. I definitely recommend giving Tell Me Goodnight a read if for no other reason than to find out where the saying "tell me goodnight" originated. As far as what I liked best about the book, all of it. I love all of the book.
May 21, 2019
INITIAL IMPRESSION: It's the middle of the night and I just finished this beautiful book. Not sure I can put into words how much I enjoyed it, but I did. Jon and Tess and those three little ladies are going to stay with me for a long while.
UPDATE (the morning after): Spent ten minutes reading sentimental and faith-in-humanity-restoring memes on the internet, so now my heart is full, my cheeks are damp, and I'm back in the right frame of mind to review this book. Jon O'Dell is adorable. He is also severely handicapped by his wife's death. He's missing a lot but hasn't put in any effort to find it. Tess is also adorable. She's rudderless and frustrated and looking for something. I love these two people. I loved them immediately, when they were still holding themselves back, when they were still so broken.
I recommend Kingsley's books to everyone who scrunches up their face when I say I prefer to read romance books. Like her other works, Tell Me Goodnight is a romance, and it's also so many other amazing things. It's a story about family, about loss, about hope, about sacrifice, about belonging, about the power of music, and the connection of fandoms.
UPDATE (the morning after): Spent ten minutes reading sentimental and faith-in-humanity-restoring memes on the internet, so now my heart is full, my cheeks are damp, and I'm back in the right frame of mind to review this book. Jon O'Dell is adorable. He is also severely handicapped by his wife's death. He's missing a lot but hasn't put in any effort to find it. Tess is also adorable. She's rudderless and frustrated and looking for something. I love these two people. I loved them immediately, when they were still holding themselves back, when they were still so broken.
I recommend Kingsley's books to everyone who scrunches up their face when I say I prefer to read romance books. Like her other works, Tell Me Goodnight is a romance, and it's also so many other amazing things. It's a story about family, about loss, about hope, about sacrifice, about belonging, about the power of music, and the connection of fandoms.
May 24, 2019
If I could give it more than 5* then I would! This has heartbreak and love throughout, with characters that unknowingly bring the best out of each other, but won’t admit their feelings to the other!
Tess is looking after her grandmother who was, a best selling novelist, and a hero in her granddaughters eyes! She aspires to be just like her author grandmother, but it’s a struggle!
Jon is a heartbroken piano playing widower and father of three gorgeous girls all under the age of 6! He plays in his brothers bar to earn just enough money to pay the bills!
Tess and Jon meet whilst she is asking his brother for a job, but what she ends up doing is completely different to pulling pints!
What follows is a girl who falls head over heels in love with 3 little girls and their father! And a man, who sadly, struggles with his feelings for the past, present and future! Can they both find a way forward through all the heartache to find ever lasting love!
Tess is looking after her grandmother who was, a best selling novelist, and a hero in her granddaughters eyes! She aspires to be just like her author grandmother, but it’s a struggle!
Jon is a heartbroken piano playing widower and father of three gorgeous girls all under the age of 6! He plays in his brothers bar to earn just enough money to pay the bills!
Tess and Jon meet whilst she is asking his brother for a job, but what she ends up doing is completely different to pulling pints!
What follows is a girl who falls head over heels in love with 3 little girls and their father! And a man, who sadly, struggles with his feelings for the past, present and future! Can they both find a way forward through all the heartache to find ever lasting love!
May 22, 2019
"So, tell me you love me and tell me goodnight."
Kelsey does it again! She has this ability to tell unique stories that makes you feel!
Tell Me Goodnight is a story of taking chances, learning to let go, and living for the moment.
Tessa meets Jon and his daughters by chance and a wonderful, emotional story unfolds.
Jon and Tess are similar in spirit. One has lost something precious and the other is preparing for a great loss. They learn to lean on each other and develop a bond in the process.
While the story is about Jon and Tess, those three little girls stole my heart.
There were definitely tears, a little sobbing, but there were also funny moments, mostly thanks to Sebastian Moore.
I HIGHLY recommend reading this book as well as Daisies & Devin and The Life We Wanted. They can be read as a standalones.
Kelsey does it again! She has this ability to tell unique stories that makes you feel!
Tell Me Goodnight is a story of taking chances, learning to let go, and living for the moment.
Tessa meets Jon and his daughters by chance and a wonderful, emotional story unfolds.
Jon and Tess are similar in spirit. One has lost something precious and the other is preparing for a great loss. They learn to lean on each other and develop a bond in the process.
While the story is about Jon and Tess, those three little girls stole my heart.
There were definitely tears, a little sobbing, but there were also funny moments, mostly thanks to Sebastian Moore.
I HIGHLY recommend reading this book as well as Daisies & Devin and The Life We Wanted. They can be read as a standalones.
May 25, 2019
It’s a special book that can be filled with great sorrow and grief and still show you such love and hope. This story is about fate and how meeting the right person at the right time can be the catalyst for moving on, loving again and reaching for your dreams.
I was hooked on this story from the start and it has stayed with me for days after finishing it.
Tessa & Jon were both dealing with their own stages of grief and a chance meeting puts them on a course of healing and eventually happy ever after.
There is a beautiful truth the authors words and I really enjoyed both characters points of view as they battle to open up to each other. The little girls in this book are delightful and real.
Kelsey Kingsley’s books only get get better with each one she releases. This is a spin off of two previous books: Daisies & Devin and The Life We Wanted. Whilst it can be read as a stand-alone there is extra enjoyment to be had by reading the other two stories.
I was hooked on this story from the start and it has stayed with me for days after finishing it.
Tessa & Jon were both dealing with their own stages of grief and a chance meeting puts them on a course of healing and eventually happy ever after.
There is a beautiful truth the authors words and I really enjoyed both characters points of view as they battle to open up to each other. The little girls in this book are delightful and real.
Kelsey Kingsley’s books only get get better with each one she releases. This is a spin off of two previous books: Daisies & Devin and The Life We Wanted. Whilst it can be read as a stand-alone there is extra enjoyment to be had by reading the other two stories.
November 12, 2019
This is the story of how Tess fell in love with a broken man and his three little princesses.
Tessa Lang had dreams of becoming a great author of horror novels. So, when the opportunity arises to write full time she sets out to do that except Tessa Lang is not scary.
When she meets pianist, Jon O'Dell and his three little girls, Tessa finds the inspiration she has been missing and taking her Grandmother's advice, she turns to wriring romance instead of horror.
A her book develops so does her relationship with Jon. Jon's heartache starts to mend but then Tessa finds herself in a bit of a dilemma. She fell in love with her muse.
This was a first reading from this author and it was so worthwhile.
Normally I can get frustrated when a story is delivered in a two way dialogue that gives each character's point of view but I didn't with this.
The book takes you through their meeting and how their relationship develops but it also give you the inside view from Tessa.
A well written contemporary romance.
Tessa Lang had dreams of becoming a great author of horror novels. So, when the opportunity arises to write full time she sets out to do that except Tessa Lang is not scary.
When she meets pianist, Jon O'Dell and his three little girls, Tessa finds the inspiration she has been missing and taking her Grandmother's advice, she turns to wriring romance instead of horror.
A her book develops so does her relationship with Jon. Jon's heartache starts to mend but then Tessa finds herself in a bit of a dilemma. She fell in love with her muse.
This was a first reading from this author and it was so worthwhile.
Normally I can get frustrated when a story is delivered in a two way dialogue that gives each character's point of view but I didn't with this.
The book takes you through their meeting and how their relationship develops but it also give you the inside view from Tessa.
A well written contemporary romance.
May 24, 2019
Kelsey has knocked another great story out of the park.
Tess is a young writer who is trying to write her first book while living with and taking care of her aging grandmother. After 6 months of just her and grandma and Harriet the cat, Tess is going stir crazy and needs something to get her out of the h is a a few hours a week. Walked into a bar to apply for bartending job.
Jon fell in love and married his high school sweetheart Beth, they have 3 little girls. Jon is a talented piano player and singer, but has had no success in making it in the music business after over a decade of sending in music. He plays piano and sings in his brothers club. Beth passed away 6 months after they had their last daughter, leaving my Jon to be the sole caregiver and supported of his little girls.
Tess and Jon meet through his daughter calling Tess pretty when she see her in the bar filling out paperwork for a job as a bartender, that she is not qualified for. Jon brother suggests she should babysit the cute girls she meet. This is where the story begins. Tessa become the girls babysitter and then Jon's friend and confidant.
This story covers first loves, grief and loss, second chances at love, and success in dreams if only you put your heart and soul into. You have to want it to make it happen and let your not and happiness show in your work. You never know when you will become someone's muse for their stories, their music or their art.
Tess is a young writer who is trying to write her first book while living with and taking care of her aging grandmother. After 6 months of just her and grandma and Harriet the cat, Tess is going stir crazy and needs something to get her out of the h is a a few hours a week. Walked into a bar to apply for bartending job.
Jon fell in love and married his high school sweetheart Beth, they have 3 little girls. Jon is a talented piano player and singer, but has had no success in making it in the music business after over a decade of sending in music. He plays piano and sings in his brothers club. Beth passed away 6 months after they had their last daughter, leaving my Jon to be the sole caregiver and supported of his little girls.
Tess and Jon meet through his daughter calling Tess pretty when she see her in the bar filling out paperwork for a job as a bartender, that she is not qualified for. Jon brother suggests she should babysit the cute girls she meet. This is where the story begins. Tessa become the girls babysitter and then Jon's friend and confidant.
This story covers first loves, grief and loss, second chances at love, and success in dreams if only you put your heart and soul into. You have to want it to make it happen and let your not and happiness show in your work. You never know when you will become someone's muse for their stories, their music or their art.
May 18, 2019
"So, tell me you love me and tell me goodnight."
This is the first book I have read from this author and I loved it. A beautiful story. Heartbreaking sad but uplifting too. Two characters Tessa and Jon struggling day by day and a chance meeting from a conversation with a little girl dressed like a princess and a meddling brother. They are each other's muses. A heartwarming story with wonderful and adorable characters. There are two characters in the book that have their own story Devin and Sebastian and I can't wait to read it.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
This is the first book I have read from this author and I loved it. A beautiful story. Heartbreaking sad but uplifting too. Two characters Tessa and Jon struggling day by day and a chance meeting from a conversation with a little girl dressed like a princess and a meddling brother. They are each other's muses. A heartwarming story with wonderful and adorable characters. There are two characters in the book that have their own story Devin and Sebastian and I can't wait to read it.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews