The Way Back

by Hannah Rae

Philadelphia, PA

“When you know, you know” is how Piper had rationalized her rushed engagement when she broke the news over the phone. Now, only a few months later, Jane is packing her bags and heading west to partake in festivities leading up to her cousin’s wedding.

Radio Park, OR

It’s not that Ansel doesn’t approve of his daughter’s fiance; it’s just that Piper and Max have been dating for less than a year. The decision to marry seems rushed. These worries would typically prove a distraction to Ansel, but he’s been a bit preoccupied by the compass tattooed on his right wrist. The needle, impossibly, continues to spin.

Moonglow, NC

Jonny has the ring and the girl, but no matter how hard he tries, he can’t seem to form the words “Will you marry me?” The reason for this, he realizes, is because he’s unable to forget the woman he met all those years ago while passing through Denver. The problem? With the exception of knowing her hometown (Radio Park) and her first name (Piper), he has very little to go on. Nevertheless, these trivial details are enough to persuade Jonny to purchase a plane ticket and head west.

Will Jonny and Piper’s paths intersect… and if so, what direction will they take?

Genres: Fiction, Romance

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 20, 2022

About the author

When she was in the fourth grade, Hannah Rae couldn't fall asleep one night. She climbed out of bed, padded down the hallway to her parents' bedroom, and said, "Mom, I can't sleep." To which her mother replied, "Make up a story in your head." So Hannah created a cast of characters, and a setting, and a plot... and to this day, the first thing she thinks about when she snuggles under the covers each night are those characters and that setting. But the plot is always changing.

Reviews

[Dana · Rating 3 out of 5]

An upbeat easy to read book (a longer novella), enjoyable but no Wow factor. Open ending - sequel in the works? Thanks to the author for the Goodreads giveaway.

[Mary McDannell · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a fast read, The Way Back is it! The story centers around the story of Jonny and Piper who met at a bar years in the past and cannot seem to forget about the moment that they shared together of strong chemistry and missed opportunities. Now, both Jonny and Piper find themselves with other people preparing to make lifetime commitments.

Since Jonny can't seem to stop thinking about Piper, he decides to find her before he proposes to his girlfriend. The only information that he has about her is that she is a photographer and that she is from Radio Park, Oregon. As Jonny flies to Oregon, he has no idea that Piper is getting married that same weekend. The story becomes a race against the clock as Jonny tries to find Piper before she gets married.

While the plot of the book seems like it falls into the romance genre, the way Rae crafted this story lends it to the genre of magical realism and separates it from other romance novels. First, Rae's choice of narrators does not include Piper, rather, it includes Piper's maid of honor, Jane, and Piper's father, Ansel. This leaves an air mystery as to what Piper is thinking and what Piper might do if Jonny does find her in time. Another unique characteristic is that Ansel has a tattoo of a compass whose needle continues to spin. The compass acts as a guide in helping Ansel to direct Piper through these big life changes.

The main thing that sets this book apart from similar stories is the themes that it explores. Rae uses Piper and Jonny's story to pose bigger questions about regrets and doubts. She also explores the ideas of living in the moment and the power of chance encounters. After reading the book, you will be thinking about all of the small coincidences in life and whether or not some things are determined by fate.

[Carlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5- This was such a good book! I'm going to be upfront and acknowledge the fact that I do know this author. I have known her for a few years, and it has taken me far too long to actually read something that she has written. Now, this review is not in any way based on my knowing the author. This plot and idea had me hooked from the second that I read the synopsis. I liked how unique each character was, and there were specific parts of each character that I adored. Jonny is a dreamer, and I relate to that on a higher level. I appreciated his spontaneousness, and he was just a really fun character. Jane was my kind of girl. I can't pinpoint what it was about her, but I feel like she and I would be friends in real life. Ansel was a character that I still feel like I don't have a true read on. I honestly want to know a little more about him and his backstory. He was the perfect dad figure for this novel because he played the fatherly role but in a cool and wise dad sort of way. I love novels that have different storylines that all overlap, so this was right up my alley. One of my favorite parts of this novel was the irony. As a reader, I was hoping for a certain outcome, and I had so much knowledge that the characters didn't. It was frustrating in the best way because there were so many moments where I was just begging a character to turn around or do one little thing. I also loved the descriptions in this novel. There were a few moments that were so descriptive and unique that defined the characters and the writing all in one. The only thing holding me back from giving this novel the full five stars is that there was something keeping me from loving this book. I don't know what it was, but there was something there. The ending was very fitting. It was satisfying without being too perfect, and I think that it worked beautifully. There was cursing in this novel, but there wasn't any violence or sexual content. I would say that this book is best suited for readers in or older than the YA age group. I definitely recommend this novel. It is a quick read that is hopeful, insightful, and just flat-out good. I can't wait to see what this author does in the future, and I am certain that it will be great.

[Trey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jonny is ready to propose to his girlfriend, Alex. Or so he thinks, he's bought the ring but just can't bring himself to ask the question. His mind is stuck on Piper whom he met in a bar 6 years ago. They didn't exchange information, but he hasn't stopped thinking about her since. He feels that he can't move forward until he answers the question of "what if" so he tells Alex that he's going to visit a friend in OR. What he doesn't mention is that he plans to try to find Piper.

Piper is about to get married to the man she thinks is the love of her life. But she also can't stop thinking about the guy she met all those years ago and wondering what would be different if they had exchanged numbers. She knows it's impossible to ever find him. Or is it?

This was such a unique read. It's a quick, slow burn, small town romance with a hint of magical realism. I really appreciated how original the story was and how likable the characters were. I'm hoping for another book as this one left me wanting to know more about what happens with Piper and Jonny. This really gave me How I Met Your Mother vibes (which is one of my all time favorite shows) and made me enjoy it that much more.

There was one little thing that I didn't love and that was how Jonny approached things with Alex. I really felt sorry for Alex in the fact that she had no idea of Jonny's actual plan. I really would have liked for Jonny to be upfront and honest with her.

All in all, I think the author has a special story here and I definitely recommend it.

I received a complementary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is well written with a defined purpose as well as several side stories to provide readers needed background information and the history of several characters you will want to know better.
Honestly I enjoyed the story more than expected and can readily recommend this 5 star read.

My thanks to the sponsors of this book’s goodreads giveaway for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.

[Jori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading Hannah's writing!!!

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so great! One because the author is amazing at writing, and two because the character development is amazing! Piper seems like the type of girl to be a follower, not a leader. But Jane makes her want to become a leader and speak for herself. I honestly hate Max... but only because he makes Piper follow his exception of perfect, and doesn't let her explore her creativity. But overall, this book was amazing, the vibe was amazing, and so is the author😁

[Amanda Estes · Rating 5 out of 5]

enjoyable read

I really enjoyed this book. I got it from a Goodreads giveaway. The story was very interesting and moved a nice pace. I look forward to more by this author.

[Theresa Hardman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real page turner by such a talented writer.

I can always feel a connection between the author and her characters. She loves them as if they are her best friends. I can also frequently feel the author herself in her characters…. “There was no segue between thoughts, no rhyme or reason as to why she sometimes said what she did. The synapses in her brain fired and she responded. It was as simple as that.” Yes. Hannah Rae personally knows her characters. And this is most evident in her writing.

Again. Read it, folks. Her talent is beyond measure.

[Haley Orner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is truly one of the best books I've ever read! As I was reading, it was like a movie playing through my head. It is one of the most powerful love stories I have ever read, and I'm glad the author decided to give it a happy ending.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Way Back

By: Hannah Rae
Narrated by: Chris Kerrigan

Hannah Rae! 20 Stars YES!

Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 02-14-24

When it’s right, you know! But what if you’re just trying to convince YOURSELF that it’s right, because he or she, wants it to BE, even if THEY have to change YOU, to make it so… Somehow, you have to find … “The Way Back”. This is Piper and Jonny. Both in relationships with people not completely on board with the nuts and bolts of “them”. Accommodations and compromises have caused each to lose bits and pieces of themselves. They each recall a time when they shared a special … interlude … and wonder what might have been … if only … and that is ALL I’m giving away! Trust this fabulous author! You will not be disappointed! The story is mesmerizing as it smoothly plays out, perfectly clear, perfectly balanced, and beautifully lyrical! The way the two “sub plots” masterfully interweave and form a sort of magical dance as the story progresses is astoundingly engaging, entertaining and engrossing! I won’t give up how it resolves, that wouldn’t be right, but I will tell you that it was a magical ride and I enjoyed every single curve along the way! The characters are wonderfully human! I had a few I loved and wanted to hang out with! A certain group of musicians comes to mind … but I digress. I loved listening to the goings on with Piper’s family! Their dynamic was interesting, entertaining, and beautifully REAL, as was the very different dynamic of Max’s family. All of the characters are realistically HUMANIZED by believable strengths, flaws, and personalities that show clearly through beautifully written, emotional, heartfelt, and true to life dialogue. The challenges they face are those that face us all, and I could identify easily. The scene setting was fantastic and provided any additional information necessary without getting in the way of the story. The icing on a truly magnificent cake was the narration! Beautifully clear, emotionally perfect, voicing choices consistent throughout AND musically brilliant! This performance, writing and narration was an outstanding and astounding five stars across the board. I laughed, cried and LOVED! It was right and I knew it!

[Hannah Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know I wrote the book, and having just read it for the first time in print form there ARE a handful of things (language) I’d tweak… but I ultimately love this story. I think the characters are very likable — there are even times I feel sympathetic toward Max! — and I really like that its ending isn’t tied up with a neat little bow.

I also like that the reader never gets Piper’s perspective. That was a clever move on my part, if I do say so myself.

There have been a few folks upset with how Alex was treated… but that’s intentional. Alex did NOTHING wrong, and Jonny maybe should have been more open with her about what he was feeling and doing, but Jonny is only human. He’s flawed.

Ansel seems to have quite the fan club, which I think is great. I love that guy, but I love his son more. Kai will DEFINITELY be making an appearance in a future book. As will Piper and Jonny… when Uptempo, Down is eventually released.

And, I mean, Jane’s around quite a bit too. And Bas and Bert and the rest of the band; those boys are all featured in Running Through the Words!

Gosh, I love to write. I get so excited about this stuff!

[Liv · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “The Way Back” by Hannah Rae, I quickly found myself immersed in a story that felt both original and captivating. The concept of a chance encounter between two people creating such a significant impact was genuinely intriguing. This novella moves at a brisk pace, offering a quick read without sacrificing its depth.

One aspect I truly appreciated was the author’s skillful weaving of several side stories, each serving as a puzzle piece that contributed to the overall narrative. These side stories not only enriched the main plot but also gave us a deeper insight into the characters and their backgrounds in an organic manner.

I was also particularly charmed by how music played a significant yet elegant role in the narrative—it added a lovely touch that enhanced the immersive experience tenfold. The characters themselves were incredibly relatable, making it even more enjoyable to follow their respective journeys.

That said, there were a few little things that didn’t quite sit right with me. I found Johnny’s treatment of his girlfriend, Alex, particularly troubling. It felt like a real disservice to their relationship for him not to be honest, especially since he came across as such a decent and wholesome person otherwise. This dishonesty just didn’t seem to fit with his character and left me feeling unsettled.

Additionally, while the story was undeniably beautiful, engaging, and exceptionally original, it lacked that final “wow” factor that could have elevated it to the next level. Despite these minor drawbacks, I’m incredibly glad I read “The Way Back,” and I think others will appreciate its unique charm as well.

I was provided a complimentary free copy of this book from author (Hannah Rae) in exchange for providing my honest review. All opinions expressed are voluntary and my own.

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For additional book reviews and book-related content, please consider following me on Instagram and TikTok @readaholicliv

[Baustman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love lost, love found, coffee, music, Oregon, a hint of magic, and a cat named Wallace. If any of these sound interesting, The Way Back is the novel for you.

Primarily, this is the story of Jonny and Piper, two folks whose brief meeting years before left lasting, and haunting, impressions on both. But, this novel is about far more. There's a whole host of interesting, quirky, usually delightful characters, including Wallace the cat. CHARACTERS are the core of Ms. Rae's work. They drive the story, and this is the hallmark of all of Ms. Rae's previous novels as well. In fact, if you read her other novels, you'll see many of these compelling characters again! It is hard to decide, but my current favorite is Ansel. I can't say more without issuing a Spoiler Alert, but all of her characters are fascinating and REAL.

I obviously HAVE read several of Hannah Rae's previous works, so I'm a confirmed fan. Hers is a name that will someday rise to prominence; of that I'm sure.

[Ginny Velazquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished reading The Way Back by @heyheyhannahrae and really enjoyed it. The title is a loose reference to the time machine known as The Way-Back Machine, from the Rocky and Bullwinkle show.
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Hannah Rae's characters were relatable and easy to care for. The storyline was simple, yet endearing.
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🚨 Some Spoilers Here 🚨
*I enjoyed the subtle use of magical realism with Ansel's tattoo. At times, I thought it could have been built up more, but then again, it's minor role seemed more fitting with Ansel's laid back nature.
*A lot of the events in this story felt almost too coincidental, but it was ok because a serendipity seemed to play a huge part in everyone's lives.
*Except Alex. Of all the characters in this story, I felt the worst for Alex. She seemed nice enough, but it seemed like she got ignored and strung along, and Jonny just seemed cold toward her throughout the book.
*I liked that the story wasn't "over" at the end if the book. In the end, we don't know if Jonny and Piper worked out, but at least they got the chance they deserved.

[Katie Bupp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hannah released this book one chapter at a time and it was such a fun way to read! The descriptions of each scene made it easy to transition between character themed chapters. I love Hannah’s characters and her love of music is always a main character.

[Haley Orner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opportunity of rereading is powerful. After reading more of Hannah Rae's other works, than coming back and reading this book again, I have such a deep appreciation for this book. It's uniqueness is nice, but it's little ties are a lovely detail. Thank you again for this book!

[Sydni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reads like a Hallmark movie Excellent writing & character developement. 4 stars because I feel like there was too much buildup. Overall a great read and I would 100% read a sequel

[Siri Phelps · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surely that stranger Jonny shared a drink with years before couldn't be "the one". He knows that sounds crazy, but he also knows he has to find out.

This novel moves at a brisk pace and held my attention as it followed several characters on different paths heading to the same wedding for very different reasons. Their journeys draw them closer to each other and to answering the question "How do we move forward if we're hung up on our past? ".

Fans of Hannah Rae have come to expect a story filled with detailed, lyrical descriptions of people and places, and this book does not disappoint. From Moonglow to Radio Park, we are along for the ride and the characters feel like old friends by the novel's end.

[Hannah Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I just listened to this… because I can, and because I’m the author and needed to proof the audio files for the soon-to-be-released Audible version of The Way Back. Maybe this’ll make me sound really arrogant, but I have some really funny lines in this novel! I laughed a lot. 😊