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Hello, Goodbye: A Novel
Fifteen-year-old Hailey Rogers is sure her summer is ruined when her parents force her to spend a few days a week helping her grandmother, Gigi. Although she only lives across town, she never sees her grandmother and knows little about her. But Gigi is full of surprises--and family secrets. Throw in the gorgeous boy down the street, and Hailey's ruined summer might just be the best of her life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart. After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust. In a forgotten Texas town, the past and the present collide--and Hailey is forced to choose what she truly values in life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart. After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust. In a forgotten Texas town, the past and the present collide--and Hailey is forced to choose what she truly values in life.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2022
24 people are currently reading
4675 people want to read
About the author
Kate Stollenwerck
2 books65 followersKate, a fifth-generation Texan, was born and raised in Dallas. She graduated from Northwestern University and the University of Texas at Austin School of Law.
Kate now lives in Florida with her husband and three children. Her debut novel, Hello, Goodbye, was released on August 2, 2022. The highly anticipated sequel, Don't Let Me Down, comes out on October 22, 2024.
Kate now lives in Florida with her husband and three children. Her debut novel, Hello, Goodbye, was released on August 2, 2022. The highly anticipated sequel, Don't Let Me Down, comes out on October 22, 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
July 26, 2022
This is a heartfelt, generational family YA coming of age story and I fell in love with it. Ya fans, and teens will enjoy this one!!
Hailey is 15, and is told by her parents that she has to go stay with her grandma Gigi and help her out this summer. She just knows that this is going to be the worst summer ever. When she gets there, she realizes that her grandma is way cooler than she expected, and that they actually have lots in common. They end up developing a really awesome bond, and it was so sweet. They read books, they listen to The Beatles. She also makes friends with the cute boy next door. He's a football player at the high school, he's such a nice guy, and could they possibly have feelings for eachother? Hailey learns about her family history and how important it is to be close with the ones you love.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Hailey is 15, and is told by her parents that she has to go stay with her grandma Gigi and help her out this summer. She just knows that this is going to be the worst summer ever. When she gets there, she realizes that her grandma is way cooler than she expected, and that they actually have lots in common. They end up developing a really awesome bond, and it was so sweet. They read books, they listen to The Beatles. She also makes friends with the cute boy next door. He's a football player at the high school, he's such a nice guy, and could they possibly have feelings for eachother? Hailey learns about her family history and how important it is to be close with the ones you love.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
July 23, 2022
Hello, Goodbye by Kate Stollenwerck. Thanks to @booksparks for the gifted copy #popuptour ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hailey Rogers is bummed when her parents make her spend her summer vacation with her grandmother a few days a week. Gigi lives close but for some reason she’s never been part of her life. Hailey is about to find out why, as well as the fact that Gigi is full of surprises.. and history.
As you may have guessed from the title, the Beatles play a huge role in this book. If you’re a Beatles fan, you’ll love this story. Even if you’re not, there’s still plenty to love in this book. It’s not often a book can make me cry, but it did. I loved the family dynamics, and the family history which we get deep into towards the end. It does read as a young adult novel, so it is fast and entertaining. This was a genuine heartwarming, and heartbreaking, tale that I suggest everyone read.
“One thing I have learned on my journey is that life can unfold in unexpected ways. But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
Hello, Goodbye comes out 8/2.
Hailey Rogers is bummed when her parents make her spend her summer vacation with her grandmother a few days a week. Gigi lives close but for some reason she’s never been part of her life. Hailey is about to find out why, as well as the fact that Gigi is full of surprises.. and history.
As you may have guessed from the title, the Beatles play a huge role in this book. If you’re a Beatles fan, you’ll love this story. Even if you’re not, there’s still plenty to love in this book. It’s not often a book can make me cry, but it did. I loved the family dynamics, and the family history which we get deep into towards the end. It does read as a young adult novel, so it is fast and entertaining. This was a genuine heartwarming, and heartbreaking, tale that I suggest everyone read.
“One thing I have learned on my journey is that life can unfold in unexpected ways. But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
Hello, Goodbye comes out 8/2.
November 8, 2022
Hello, Goodbye
is an emotional, sweet story about family secrets, the beauty of connection, and The Beatles.
Hailey’s summer plans fall apart when her best friend gets in trouble and is sent to a wilderness camp. And then things get worse when her parents ask her to spend a few days a week with Gigi, her grandmother. Even though Gigi lives 15 minutes away, they don’t see her often, so Hailey has no idea what to expect.
She’s in for a surprise when she learns that Gigi is a woman who lives life to the fullest, who believes that the trinity of a perfect day is a good book, a cool car, and a great song. It’s not long before Gigi has taught Hailey about The Beatles, her favorite band, and shared some secrets about her ancestors. Hailey doesn’t understand why her mother doesn’t know these stories, or why she won’t spend any time with her grandmother.
When tragedy strikes, Hailey is left to question whose version of the truth is more correct—Gigi’s or her mother’s. And when she finds a letter from her great-grandfather, she’s determined to solve the mysteries of her family once and for all, even if she has no idea what she’s getting into.
I loved Gigi’s character. She reminded me a lot of my Grandma Gloria, who was a dynamo in her own right. There is lots of emotion in this story as well as the opportunity to try and heal old wounds.
Thanks so much to BookSparks, Kate Stollenwerck, and Spark Press for the pop-up review opportunity!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
Hailey’s summer plans fall apart when her best friend gets in trouble and is sent to a wilderness camp. And then things get worse when her parents ask her to spend a few days a week with Gigi, her grandmother. Even though Gigi lives 15 minutes away, they don’t see her often, so Hailey has no idea what to expect.
She’s in for a surprise when she learns that Gigi is a woman who lives life to the fullest, who believes that the trinity of a perfect day is a good book, a cool car, and a great song. It’s not long before Gigi has taught Hailey about The Beatles, her favorite band, and shared some secrets about her ancestors. Hailey doesn’t understand why her mother doesn’t know these stories, or why she won’t spend any time with her grandmother.
When tragedy strikes, Hailey is left to question whose version of the truth is more correct—Gigi’s or her mother’s. And when she finds a letter from her great-grandfather, she’s determined to solve the mysteries of her family once and for all, even if she has no idea what she’s getting into.
I loved Gigi’s character. She reminded me a lot of my Grandma Gloria, who was a dynamo in her own right. There is lots of emotion in this story as well as the opportunity to try and heal old wounds.
Thanks so much to BookSparks, Kate Stollenwerck, and Spark Press for the pop-up review opportunity!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
July 22, 2022
I give this book a 4.75 stars.
I loved this book in so many different ways. It was beautiful, as someone who has a very strong relationship with their grandmother(s), it made me cry. I loved hearing about Haileys story, her family, and her adventures. The sub plots of romance were just the right perfect. I definitely recommend this book! 🫶🏼
I loved this book in so many different ways. It was beautiful, as someone who has a very strong relationship with their grandmother(s), it made me cry. I loved hearing about Haileys story, her family, and her adventures. The sub plots of romance were just the right perfect. I definitely recommend this book! 🫶🏼
July 10, 2022
This a beautiful coming of age story! I devoured it one day. Hailey fifteen years old is told by her parents that she has to spend her summer helping her grandmother Gigi. She doesn't even know Gigi, sounds like the worst summer ever. She soon finds out that her and her grandmother have more in common than she ever imagined. She finds out about family secrets, and doors to her past that need to be discovered. With her grandmothers help she learns to be more confident, and her grandmother pushes her out of her shell. The boy next door to grandmother is the cutest boy that goes to her school. With a little push from grandma a friendship develops, maybe more. ;)
Great book for YA to Adult, great reminder of the importance of family. When I was a kid I spent summers with my grandparents, and it was the best. I started researching my family history and there are so many unanswered questions. I wish they were still alive to ask, I give anything to have one day with them.
I hope to read more from this author, I am going to purchase this book and share with all my friends and family.
Thank you to NetGalley and SparkPress for gifting me a copy of this book for my honest review.
Great book for YA to Adult, great reminder of the importance of family. When I was a kid I spent summers with my grandparents, and it was the best. I started researching my family history and there are so many unanswered questions. I wish they were still alive to ask, I give anything to have one day with them.
I hope to read more from this author, I am going to purchase this book and share with all my friends and family.
Thank you to NetGalley and SparkPress for gifting me a copy of this book for my honest review.
April 15, 2024
This book is a cheesy, but touching story of a girl finding out true family history!! I’m not necessarily sure I would recommend but it got me out of my reading slump! Sweet story of a teenage girl and her grandma, of course a lil romance with the star of the football team, and finally a treasure hunt?? Haha hard to explain but if you’re curious you should read 🫶🏼
May 18, 2023
I’ve finally finished it! Will post full review later.
July 2, 2022
3.5!
Hello, Goodbye has a lot to enjoy: romance, the sweetest granddaughter-grandmother relationship, mystery, history, teen antics, and a deep dive into family history.
This was chock-full of pop culture references-especially The Beatles-which I can imagine will appeal to many readers, though I don't have any particular attachment to The Beatles so there was a bit of a missed connection there for me. Still, I really loved how Hailey and Gigi bonded through books, music, and Gigi's old classic car. Their relationship was SUCH a highlight for me. Hailey as a character is really determined and pretty fearless. There were times when the narration/voice got on my nerves, but overall she's teenagery and a lot of what she goes through will be relatable for many readers.
The ending went in a direction I wasn't really expecting at all, but was a pleasant surprise! It felt a bit far-fetched, but it was still enjoyable. Overall this is a fast-paced YA novel focused on familial relationships with a dash of detective-work and cute romance. :)
digital copy received from netgalley!
Hello, Goodbye has a lot to enjoy: romance, the sweetest granddaughter-grandmother relationship, mystery, history, teen antics, and a deep dive into family history.
This was chock-full of pop culture references-especially The Beatles-which I can imagine will appeal to many readers, though I don't have any particular attachment to The Beatles so there was a bit of a missed connection there for me. Still, I really loved how Hailey and Gigi bonded through books, music, and Gigi's old classic car. Their relationship was SUCH a highlight for me. Hailey as a character is really determined and pretty fearless. There were times when the narration/voice got on my nerves, but overall she's teenagery and a lot of what she goes through will be relatable for many readers.
The ending went in a direction I wasn't really expecting at all, but was a pleasant surprise! It felt a bit far-fetched, but it was still enjoyable. Overall this is a fast-paced YA novel focused on familial relationships with a dash of detective-work and cute romance. :)
digital copy received from netgalley!
August 4, 2022
3.5 stars
November 12, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars
✨What it is about:
Fifteen-year-old Hailey Rogers is sure her summer is ruined when her parents tell her she has to spend a few days a week, every week, helping her grandmother, Gigi.
Although Gigi only lives across town, Hailey never sees her and knows little about her. But Gigi is full of surprises—and family secrets. Throw in the gorgeous boy down the street, and Hailey's ruined summer might just be the best of her life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart.
After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust.✨
💭My thoughts:
This was such a sweet and heartwarming read for me. I absolutely LOVED it!🥰
I was smiling while reading the whole time, and I laughed out loud, cried, and laughed out loud and cried at the same time!😆 I loved the connection Hailey found with Gigi and the way they each filled a space in their heart with each other. I found the mother daughter relationship, in contrast with the father daughter relationship very realistic. Everyone knows there’s always a “good cop” and a “bad cop” where parents are concerned, and the way the author nailed this throughout the story was cool to see, as a parent myself. The Beatles play a big part in the story, so if you like them, you’ll love this, but even if you don’t, this story is so heartfelt and multilayered that I’m sure you’ll find something to love here. Blake, the boy down the street, is one I want to find for my daughter 😂. He was just something else. So thoughtful, so kind, I could even say wise beyond his years. This story touched my heart, and I recommend it to anyone looking for a well written story about the importance of connection, family, history, and love.
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
🚙 YA reads
✡️ Complicated family dynamics
🚙 Teen antics
✡️ Jewish representation
🚙 Treasure hunts
⚠️CW: Stroke, death of a family member, abandonment, mentions of the holocaust and Jewish persecution.
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy.
✨What it is about:
Fifteen-year-old Hailey Rogers is sure her summer is ruined when her parents tell her she has to spend a few days a week, every week, helping her grandmother, Gigi.
Although Gigi only lives across town, Hailey never sees her and knows little about her. But Gigi is full of surprises—and family secrets. Throw in the gorgeous boy down the street, and Hailey's ruined summer might just be the best of her life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart.
After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust.✨
💭My thoughts:
This was such a sweet and heartwarming read for me. I absolutely LOVED it!🥰
I was smiling while reading the whole time, and I laughed out loud, cried, and laughed out loud and cried at the same time!😆 I loved the connection Hailey found with Gigi and the way they each filled a space in their heart with each other. I found the mother daughter relationship, in contrast with the father daughter relationship very realistic. Everyone knows there’s always a “good cop” and a “bad cop” where parents are concerned, and the way the author nailed this throughout the story was cool to see, as a parent myself. The Beatles play a big part in the story, so if you like them, you’ll love this, but even if you don’t, this story is so heartfelt and multilayered that I’m sure you’ll find something to love here. Blake, the boy down the street, is one I want to find for my daughter 😂. He was just something else. So thoughtful, so kind, I could even say wise beyond his years. This story touched my heart, and I recommend it to anyone looking for a well written story about the importance of connection, family, history, and love.
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
🚙 YA reads
✡️ Complicated family dynamics
🚙 Teen antics
✡️ Jewish representation
🚙 Treasure hunts
⚠️CW: Stroke, death of a family member, abandonment, mentions of the holocaust and Jewish persecution.
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy.
October 30, 2024
Thank you to @tlcbooktours and Kate Stollenwerck for including me on the book tour for HELLO, GOODBYE (August 2022) and DON’T LET ME DOWN (October 2024). I appreciate the signed copies and “All You Need is Love” sticker!
“The Beatles have provided me with the three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
These books appealed to me because of The Beatles connection, and in HELLO, GOODBYE the characters do love The Beatles and speak of them and specific songs in glowing terms, so that thrilled me. And while those songs are the soundtrack of the book, the novel is much more.
Hailey Rogers faces a lonely summer after her best friend is sent to a wilderness camp. She doesn’t think it could get much worse, until her father tells her she is going to be helping her grandma, Gigi, that summer. Gigi and Hailey’s mom are estranged, so Gigi has only been a peripheral figure in Hailey’s life. She dreads the two days a week she must spend with her grandma, but then she realizes how special her spunky, eccentric grandmother is. It doesn’t hurt that she lives down the street from Hailey’s long-time crush, Blake!
Just as the summer is about to end, things take a tragic turn, and Hailey learns why her mother has such negative feelings toward Gigi. She doesn’t know what to believe until she finds an old letter written by her great-grandfather. She takes off with the one person she trusts to finally uncover the truth about her family’s past.
So many details resonated with me: The Beatles, plus Gigi has a light blue convertible named “Betty.” My first car was no convertible (and was far from cool), but it was a light blue car named Betty! Several aspects of Gigi reminded me of my grandmother. Dr. Pepper is Hailey’s favorite beverage. It’s not mine, but it was the favorite beverage of my aunt and mother and has been that of my cousin. All the emotional connections made me cry for the second half of the book, more or less!
I am looking forward to continuing Hailey’s story in DON’T LET ME DOWN.
“The Beatles have provided me with the three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
These books appealed to me because of The Beatles connection, and in HELLO, GOODBYE the characters do love The Beatles and speak of them and specific songs in glowing terms, so that thrilled me. And while those songs are the soundtrack of the book, the novel is much more.
Hailey Rogers faces a lonely summer after her best friend is sent to a wilderness camp. She doesn’t think it could get much worse, until her father tells her she is going to be helping her grandma, Gigi, that summer. Gigi and Hailey’s mom are estranged, so Gigi has only been a peripheral figure in Hailey’s life. She dreads the two days a week she must spend with her grandma, but then she realizes how special her spunky, eccentric grandmother is. It doesn’t hurt that she lives down the street from Hailey’s long-time crush, Blake!
Just as the summer is about to end, things take a tragic turn, and Hailey learns why her mother has such negative feelings toward Gigi. She doesn’t know what to believe until she finds an old letter written by her great-grandfather. She takes off with the one person she trusts to finally uncover the truth about her family’s past.
So many details resonated with me: The Beatles, plus Gigi has a light blue convertible named “Betty.” My first car was no convertible (and was far from cool), but it was a light blue car named Betty! Several aspects of Gigi reminded me of my grandmother. Dr. Pepper is Hailey’s favorite beverage. It’s not mine, but it was the favorite beverage of my aunt and mother and has been that of my cousin. All the emotional connections made me cry for the second half of the book, more or less!
I am looking forward to continuing Hailey’s story in DON’T LET ME DOWN.
November 2, 2024
Thank you to Kate Swollenbeck and TLC Book Tours for having me on this tour and for the book!
Fifteen-year-old Hailey Rogers is sure her summer is ruined when her parents tell her she has to spend a few days a week, every week, helping her grandmother, Gigi.
Although Gigi only lives across town, Hailey never sees her and knows little about her. But Gigi is full of surprises—and family secrets.
Throw in the gorgeous boy down the street, and Hailey's ruined summer might just be the best of her life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart.
After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust.
MY THOUGHTS:
I don’t read a lot of YA books (unless they’re horror/thriller LOL), but something about this struck a chord with me. Maybe because I always miss my own grandparents around the holidays, the story of teenage Hailey spending time with her grandma appealed to me. Even though it is YA, I found it relatable as an adult, how things don’t always turn out how you expect. It is SO real. Based on the synopsis, I was fully expecting it to make me teary eyed, which it did. With its fast pace, it was also a quick read as well.
”Hello Goodbye” is out now! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
Fifteen-year-old Hailey Rogers is sure her summer is ruined when her parents tell her she has to spend a few days a week, every week, helping her grandmother, Gigi.
Although Gigi only lives across town, Hailey never sees her and knows little about her. But Gigi is full of surprises—and family secrets.
Throw in the gorgeous boy down the street, and Hailey's ruined summer might just be the best of her life.
Then tragedy strikes, lies are uncovered, and Hailey's life suddenly falls apart.
After unearthing clues in an old letter written by her great-grandfather, she takes off on a road trip to solve the family mystery with the only person she can trust.
MY THOUGHTS:
I don’t read a lot of YA books (unless they’re horror/thriller LOL), but something about this struck a chord with me. Maybe because I always miss my own grandparents around the holidays, the story of teenage Hailey spending time with her grandma appealed to me. Even though it is YA, I found it relatable as an adult, how things don’t always turn out how you expect. It is SO real. Based on the synopsis, I was fully expecting it to make me teary eyed, which it did. With its fast pace, it was also a quick read as well.
”Hello Goodbye” is out now! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
July 31, 2022
15-year old Katie is convinced her summer is ruined when she’s forced to spend a few days a week with her grandmother but there are lots of surprises in store for her. It turns into a summer of growing and learning for Katie - learning about family secrets, learning about a different generation, learning about relationships with friends and boys, and finally learning about historical events.
___________
This is the sweetest book! It’s so refreshing to see a teenager portrayed as a good kid. Katie is bummed about the initial arrangement with her grandma but she quickly learns it’s not going to be so bad. Her grandma is cool. She reads and naps and loves ice cream and has the coolest car around. But she also has some hidden family secrets and knows she needs to share them with the next generation before it’s too late. I loved the relationship building, the storytelling and the historical piece that was very unexpected. While Katie turns 16 in the book and begins her junior year in high school, I’d be perfectly comfortable with my 13 year old reading this one. It’s clean, well written, and a great lesson on family and history.
___________
This is the sweetest book! It’s so refreshing to see a teenager portrayed as a good kid. Katie is bummed about the initial arrangement with her grandma but she quickly learns it’s not going to be so bad. Her grandma is cool. She reads and naps and loves ice cream and has the coolest car around. But she also has some hidden family secrets and knows she needs to share them with the next generation before it’s too late. I loved the relationship building, the storytelling and the historical piece that was very unexpected. While Katie turns 16 in the book and begins her junior year in high school, I’d be perfectly comfortable with my 13 year old reading this one. It’s clean, well written, and a great lesson on family and history.
August 2, 2022
Thank you @booksparks and @KateStollenwerck for a spot on this #summerpopup tour for 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨, 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐛𝐲𝐞.
I loved this debut novel! It’s been a minute since I’ve read a young adult book, and I’ve missed it. I really enjoyed fifteen-year-old Hailey’s perspective. I’m glad that Kate Stollenwerck kept Hailey a kid and not fifteen-year-old acting like a thirty-five-year-old; very refreshing!
So here’s what you’ll experience in this heartfelt story:
👵🏼 A fantastic grandma-granddaughter relationship
🚗 Fun road trips across Texas
🎶 Beatles’ songs - like it said in the book - “Who doesn’t like the Beatles?”
🧬 Family heritage and secrets
🗺 A treasure hunt, of sorts
💗 And a little bit of teenage romance
For the most part, this book is fun and lively as Hailey and Gigi bond over 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘎𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘣𝘺, great music and their family’s past secrets. But it does have its sad moments, with grief and family struggles both during WWII and in the present. The tone stays light as music, humor, and love is the focus.
I loved this debut novel! It’s been a minute since I’ve read a young adult book, and I’ve missed it. I really enjoyed fifteen-year-old Hailey’s perspective. I’m glad that Kate Stollenwerck kept Hailey a kid and not fifteen-year-old acting like a thirty-five-year-old; very refreshing!
So here’s what you’ll experience in this heartfelt story:
👵🏼 A fantastic grandma-granddaughter relationship
🚗 Fun road trips across Texas
🎶 Beatles’ songs - like it said in the book - “Who doesn’t like the Beatles?”
🧬 Family heritage and secrets
🗺 A treasure hunt, of sorts
💗 And a little bit of teenage romance
For the most part, this book is fun and lively as Hailey and Gigi bond over 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘎𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘣𝘺, great music and their family’s past secrets. But it does have its sad moments, with grief and family struggles both during WWII and in the present. The tone stays light as music, humor, and love is the focus.
July 25, 2022
Everyone is dead, so there is no one to ask about the past. As I sit here an old lady, I find myself longing for the truth about who I am and where I come from.
For someone who's grandma was her leading lady in life, and struggles with questions surrounding her own ancestry - this book was a cathartic delight.
There is history, adventure, grief, familial relationships + young love all tied together for an important, heart warming thrill of a read.
I do need to express that this is very YA. I would not recommend to anyone over the age of 17. (or without acknowledging who the audience is intended for) Which is why I would not rate any lower than a 4star simply because these are the good stories that kids should be introduced to.
Thank you to the author, Booksparks & Sharkpress for sending me this copy for review.
For someone who's grandma was her leading lady in life, and struggles with questions surrounding her own ancestry - this book was a cathartic delight.
There is history, adventure, grief, familial relationships + young love all tied together for an important, heart warming thrill of a read.
I do need to express that this is very YA. I would not recommend to anyone over the age of 17. (or without acknowledging who the audience is intended for) Which is why I would not rate any lower than a 4star simply because these are the good stories that kids should be introduced to.
Thank you to the author, Booksparks & Sharkpress for sending me this copy for review.
November 4, 2024
The first book introduces us to 15-year-old Hailey, who reluctantly agrees to spend the summer helping her grandmother around the house. What she expects to be a quiet season of chores turns into a summer full of adventure, personal growth, new friendships, and even first love—and ultimately, heartbreak. Through this journey, Hailey forms a deep bond with her grandmother, whom she barely knew before, and uncovers family secrets that lead them on an unexpected adventure to a small town in Texas. This book was incredibly hard to put down, filled with all the elements that kept me hooked: a bit of mystery, a touch of romance, emotional family connections, and a captivating historical fiction twist!
January 7, 2023
This was a wonderful coming-of-age story with a special relationship between the protagonist and her grandmother....always a favorite theme for me. The story made me laugh and cry. And, it ended up in Llano TX (painting, bluebonnets...) which was the home of my own dear grandmother. This has a strong historical fiction flavor and is an impressive debut novel by Kate Stollenwerck.
April 28, 2024
Read this super quickly because it really was an easy and enjoyable read! For sure is cheesy and in the YA category for a reason, but I honestly loved it. Fun adventure mixed with a little bit of romance mixed with a little bit of WWII time era. Overall, a fun read!
August 3, 2022
I loved the premise and thoroughly enjoyed the story! Fifteen year old Hailey expects to have the worse summer ever after agreeing to help her grandma, Gigi, a few days a week. As each visit goes by they grew and bonded over Beatles songs and books. Family secrets are discovered and we ride along with Hailey as she seeks the answers.
October 27, 2024
Hello, Goodbye is a lovely, heartwarming read about Hailey, who’s spending her summer with her grandma, Gigi. What starts as a visit to help Gigi out turns into a journey of discovering family history, hidden secrets, and plenty of Beatles tunes.
Gigi’s got stories to tell, and Hailey finds herself way more intrigued than she expected, especially with her grandma’s vintage car and her stories of love and loss.
Meanwhile, Hailey’s also crushing on a guy, which brings its own little thrill to her summer. This book really touches on it all—family, love, loss, and the quirky things that tie us together.
It’s emotional in the best way, and I definitely recommend it if you’re in the mood for a story with heart and a bit of nostalgia. A great summer read!
Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
Gigi’s got stories to tell, and Hailey finds herself way more intrigued than she expected, especially with her grandma’s vintage car and her stories of love and loss.
Meanwhile, Hailey’s also crushing on a guy, which brings its own little thrill to her summer. This book really touches on it all—family, love, loss, and the quirky things that tie us together.
It’s emotional in the best way, and I definitely recommend it if you’re in the mood for a story with heart and a bit of nostalgia. A great summer read!
Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
August 16, 2022
Loved Hailey’s relationship with her grandmother Gigi. 3.5 stars rounded up.
“The Beatles have provided me with three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
“But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
“The Beatles have provided me with three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
“But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
October 19, 2024
now here’s a generational tale i’d love to get lost in.
with the initial premise of the story being -
grandmother & granddaughter bond over books? then it shifts to a scavenger hunt, historical mystery, road chase. i was sold.
not only has the story got me hooked but it also got me wanting to read the great gatsby & listen to the entire beatles discography.
side note: I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
with the initial premise of the story being -
grandmother & granddaughter bond over books? then it shifts to a scavenger hunt, historical mystery, road chase. i was sold.
not only has the story got me hooked but it also got me wanting to read the great gatsby & listen to the entire beatles discography.
side note: I received an advance review copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2024
What a wonderful coming of age novel with adventure spanning continents and decades, complex relationships, and heart-warming restoration! I am so excited to have found this series through Net Galley and will be reading the sequel soon. Bonus enjoyment for all the references to our great state of Texas!
The only thing I didn’t appreciate is the brief but casual mention of multiple high school students sleeping around and getting drunk. I guess it happens, but I definitely don’t recommend it.
The only thing I didn’t appreciate is the brief but casual mention of multiple high school students sleeping around and getting drunk. I guess it happens, but I definitely don’t recommend it.
October 28, 2024
This book made me laugh and cry. It made me just fall for Gigi, she was such a force of a woman. I learned a lot about the Beatles because of Gigi's love for them (and found out the title is a Beatles song). It made me miss my grandparents that aren't with us anymore and wish I could spend even one more day with them.
I love how Hailey quickly got to know her grandmother more than ever through her summer with her. I loved that Gigi was able to help Hailey learn her family history. I love the mystery of Jack and the recovery of stolen items from the Jewish people in WW2.
The sweet little romance blossoming for Hailey with Blake was fun too. What a sweet, charming story.
I love how Hailey quickly got to know her grandmother more than ever through her summer with her. I loved that Gigi was able to help Hailey learn her family history. I love the mystery of Jack and the recovery of stolen items from the Jewish people in WW2.
The sweet little romance blossoming for Hailey with Blake was fun too. What a sweet, charming story.
June 20, 2023
What a story.
The first 50 pages were kind of hard to get through. The narration seemed choppy. But after that, WOW.
I have also learned family secrets from a grandma in similar ways and really connected with the story. I loved it.
The first 50 pages were kind of hard to get through. The narration seemed choppy. But after that, WOW.
I have also learned family secrets from a grandma in similar ways and really connected with the story. I loved it.
October 28, 2024
For being my first read from this author, I was so delighted for the opportunity from BookSirens to read the ARC! I think everyone can relate to the main character, Hailey, as she tries to find her place in the world while navigating the struggles of high school and fitting in. But she knows who she is and won't change for anybody! And her grandmother, Gigi, is a hoot! I laughed during this read, and I cried. And when the story ended, I have to admit, I was sad. You just cannot help but fall in love with the characters!
May 2, 2022
What do a 74-year-old grandmother, a 15-year-old granddaughter, a 50-year-old Cadillac, the Beatles, the Nazis, Bonnie & Clyde, and one gorgeous football receiver have in common? Oh so much! Hailey thought her summer was going to be the worst ever because her BFF, Livi, was sent to a wilderness camp as punishment for sending some pics to a guy she thought she could trust. Since she has nothing else to do, Hailey’s dad thought it would be a good idea to go help her Gigi a couple of days a week. Hailey doesn’t really know her mom’s mom but what choice does she really have? Hailey soon finds out that she has the coolest grandmother EVER!
Is this going to be the worst summer ever?
They swap their favorite books for the summer – Hailey’s is Twilight while Gigi’s is The Great Gatsby. Hailey soon finds out that this is not just any old copy of The Great Gatsby, it is a 1st edition from 1925 rich in family history. When it is time to take Gigi on some errands, Hailey is speechless when she finds out that Gigi has a 1970’s Cadillac Eldorado named “Blue Betty”. One day when she is practicing driving and parking Betty in the high school parking lot when the football team is released from practice. Hailey is mortified when the star quarterback, the #1 wide receiver in the state of Texas, and the blue-chip running back notice the classic car. She is shocked to find out that Gigi knows Blake Alexander because he lives down the street from her.
Or the best summer ever?
Blake and Hailey soon become running partners. Hailey wants there to be so much more between them but she knows that Blake is in a relationship with the most popular girl in school and she doesn’t stand a chance against her. Blake and Hailey also become partners working on a mystery that has been told to Hailey by her Gigi. Apparently, Hailey’s great-great-grandfather had connections to the notorious bank robbers, Bonnie and Clyde while her great-grandfather had connections to the Nazis. Gigi weaves an unimaginable tale about her family, so much so that she gets Hailey to drive her to Malone, Texas to look for the land where there is buried treasure.
After Hailey drives her grandmother on this long road trip, she gets grounded for two weeks. Her time with Gigi and Blake has been completely shut down. Just when she is allowed to go back out into the world, tragedy strikes. Hailey’s world is turned upside down, inside out and she basically just begins going through the motion of life. She shuts everyone and everything out. She feels like she has lost everything, that is until she finds a secret letter written by her great-grandfather that leads her and Blake on the greatest adventure of their lives.
Will Hailey find the answers to her family’s century-old secret? Can she solve the mystery of why her mother will not speak to her grandmother? Will she be able to make amends with Blake after pushing him away for so long? Will this officially be the worst or the best summer of Hailey’s life? Find out when you read this absolutely amazing, can’t-put-it-down novel by Kate Stollenwerck!
What I Love About This Book!
I don’t even know where to begin!! This book stole my heart from the first page and it still has not let go. I fell head over heels in love with every character, well maybe not the bad man on the horse, but everyone else! The relationship between Hailey and her dad is so special! He is almost always on her side and because of this she says that he is “her person”. The relationship between Hailey and her Gigi is remarkable! They really only spend a short time together but the bond that they forge is unbreakable. The relationship between Hailey and Blake is such a teenage romance! Even though they haven’t officially been labeled as “boyfriend and girlfriend”, Blake is by her side, even when she pushes him away.
Kate Stollenwerck has woven a tale of family, friendship, first love, action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, humor, and some classic music into one incredible book. Make sure you carve out some time for this one because once you pick it up, it will be very hard to put down until you get to the end! Don’t miss this one!!
My Favorite Quotes
“But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
“The Beatles have provided me with three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
“The Trinity of a Perfect Day: good book, cool car, great song.”
Go to www.blazertales.com to see the book talk, book trailer, and First Chapter Friday reading!
Is this going to be the worst summer ever?
They swap their favorite books for the summer – Hailey’s is Twilight while Gigi’s is The Great Gatsby. Hailey soon finds out that this is not just any old copy of The Great Gatsby, it is a 1st edition from 1925 rich in family history. When it is time to take Gigi on some errands, Hailey is speechless when she finds out that Gigi has a 1970’s Cadillac Eldorado named “Blue Betty”. One day when she is practicing driving and parking Betty in the high school parking lot when the football team is released from practice. Hailey is mortified when the star quarterback, the #1 wide receiver in the state of Texas, and the blue-chip running back notice the classic car. She is shocked to find out that Gigi knows Blake Alexander because he lives down the street from her.
Or the best summer ever?
Blake and Hailey soon become running partners. Hailey wants there to be so much more between them but she knows that Blake is in a relationship with the most popular girl in school and she doesn’t stand a chance against her. Blake and Hailey also become partners working on a mystery that has been told to Hailey by her Gigi. Apparently, Hailey’s great-great-grandfather had connections to the notorious bank robbers, Bonnie and Clyde while her great-grandfather had connections to the Nazis. Gigi weaves an unimaginable tale about her family, so much so that she gets Hailey to drive her to Malone, Texas to look for the land where there is buried treasure.
After Hailey drives her grandmother on this long road trip, she gets grounded for two weeks. Her time with Gigi and Blake has been completely shut down. Just when she is allowed to go back out into the world, tragedy strikes. Hailey’s world is turned upside down, inside out and she basically just begins going through the motion of life. She shuts everyone and everything out. She feels like she has lost everything, that is until she finds a secret letter written by her great-grandfather that leads her and Blake on the greatest adventure of their lives.
Will Hailey find the answers to her family’s century-old secret? Can she solve the mystery of why her mother will not speak to her grandmother? Will she be able to make amends with Blake after pushing him away for so long? Will this officially be the worst or the best summer of Hailey’s life? Find out when you read this absolutely amazing, can’t-put-it-down novel by Kate Stollenwerck!
What I Love About This Book!
I don’t even know where to begin!! This book stole my heart from the first page and it still has not let go. I fell head over heels in love with every character, well maybe not the bad man on the horse, but everyone else! The relationship between Hailey and her dad is so special! He is almost always on her side and because of this she says that he is “her person”. The relationship between Hailey and her Gigi is remarkable! They really only spend a short time together but the bond that they forge is unbreakable. The relationship between Hailey and Blake is such a teenage romance! Even though they haven’t officially been labeled as “boyfriend and girlfriend”, Blake is by her side, even when she pushes him away.
Kate Stollenwerck has woven a tale of family, friendship, first love, action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, humor, and some classic music into one incredible book. Make sure you carve out some time for this one because once you pick it up, it will be very hard to put down until you get to the end! Don’t miss this one!!
My Favorite Quotes
“But if you want something to happen, be brave and step off the ledge. Whether you fall or fly is up to you.”
“The Beatles have provided me with three guiding tenets of my life: I get by with a little help from my friends, all you need is love, and let it be.”
“The Trinity of a Perfect Day: good book, cool car, great song.”
Go to www.blazertales.com to see the book talk, book trailer, and First Chapter Friday reading!
November 2, 2024
While this book is geared towards a YA audience, I actually think adults would enjoy this book even more than teenagers. This book starts out with a teenage girl getting forced to spend time with her grandmother during her summer. While she loves her grandma, she would much rather be doing other things. But this time together in forced family fun actually turns into fun as they learn more about each other and discover their family heritage. I think this nostalgia and understanding of the importance of heritage would be even better understood and appreciated by adults, but mature teens will definitely appreciate it as well.
Thank you to TLC Book tours for the gifted copy
Thank you to TLC Book tours for the gifted copy
October 22, 2024
HELLO, GOODBYE
Kate Stollenwerck
Thank you #partners TLC Booktours, She Writes/Spark Press, and the author for my signed #gifted copy.
This blew me away!! It may be labeled YA but this 53yo was completely immersed and openly weeped.
Hailey, GiGi, Blake, and DeMarcus will have my heart forever. (I just love when the side characters are amazing!)
You better believe I’m starting the sequel RIGHT NOW!
Kate Stollenwerck
Thank you #partners TLC Booktours, She Writes/Spark Press, and the author for my signed #gifted copy.
This blew me away!! It may be labeled YA but this 53yo was completely immersed and openly weeped.
Hailey, GiGi, Blake, and DeMarcus will have my heart forever. (I just love when the side characters are amazing!)
You better believe I’m starting the sequel RIGHT NOW!
August 10, 2022
Youth and old age. Love and revenge. Grief and joy. Mystery and revelation. Kate Stollenwerck of Ponte Vedra, Florida brings readers on an incredible journey in her first ever novel, Hello, Goodbye.
The coming-of-age story is fitting for all ages and is sure to keep readers captivated and engaged. The author did a wonderful job of combining several storylines, making it easy to fall in love with each individual character. Hailey is unique, independent, and spunky. Her loving relationship with her eccentric, charming grandmother carries the story along and truly makes the novel special.
The story captivated me and gave me the sensation that I was physically in the room with Hailey and her grandmother. I felt as though I was sitting on Gigi's couch, hearing the tales of her history. Fans of the Beatles will enjoy how seamlessly the music from the band is incorporated into the narrative, and Stollenwerck fittingly included historical elements that play a significant role in the story.
Ultimately, Hello, Goodbye was a beautifully written debut that demonstrates the sweet, unmatchable relationship between a grandmother and her granddaughter. Stollenwerck tastefully incorporated themes of family, romance, and above all, love. As written in the novel, “All you need is love. Love is all you need. Just like Gigi said.”
The coming-of-age story is fitting for all ages and is sure to keep readers captivated and engaged. The author did a wonderful job of combining several storylines, making it easy to fall in love with each individual character. Hailey is unique, independent, and spunky. Her loving relationship with her eccentric, charming grandmother carries the story along and truly makes the novel special.
The story captivated me and gave me the sensation that I was physically in the room with Hailey and her grandmother. I felt as though I was sitting on Gigi's couch, hearing the tales of her history. Fans of the Beatles will enjoy how seamlessly the music from the band is incorporated into the narrative, and Stollenwerck fittingly included historical elements that play a significant role in the story.
Ultimately, Hello, Goodbye was a beautifully written debut that demonstrates the sweet, unmatchable relationship between a grandmother and her granddaughter. Stollenwerck tastefully incorporated themes of family, romance, and above all, love. As written in the novel, “All you need is love. Love is all you need. Just like Gigi said.”
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