Between Hello and Goodbye

by Emma Scott

She’s a city girl in Seattle. He’s a firefighter in a rainforest. This is never going to work…

Faith Benson isn’t your emergency contact, she’s the party-girl friend you call for a good time. The gal-pal who loves mimosas at brunch and martinis at Happy Hour. But her carefree lifestyle threatens her job at a top Seattle ad agency. There’s no one better at landing big accounts (when she shows up) but her boss demands she take a leave of absence to get her head on straight.

Faith heads to the remote Hawaiian island of Kauai, far away from the vices that get her in trouble. But a twisted ankle on Day One requires rescuing by a man who is vice personified—a gorgeous firefighter who awakens feelings in her heart she never knew existed.

Asher Mackey doesn’t get involved with beautiful tourists beyond taking them to bed and then watching them leave his tiny island. He’s devoted his life to the safety and care of everyone around him…except himself. Until he meets Faith Benson, the city girl whose vibrant, inner beauty shines a light on the dark corners of his life, showing him how safe—but empty—it truly is.

Despite their best efforts to keep their distance, Faith and Asher fall hard and fast, but there’s an ocean between them. Both are building their lives on opposite sides of the Pacific while their feelings for each other grow more profound and undeniable by the day.

Something has to give.

When Asher receives devastating news, he and Faith have to decide once and for all to entrust their hearts fully to the other or return to their safe—but separate—worlds. Because neither can endure much longer, living somewhere between hello and goodbye.

Between Hello and Goodbye is a contemporary romance about love, loss, and experiencing life in all its facets. It deals with sensitive topics that may be triggering for some readers.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers, Firefighters, Slow Burn, Drama

309 pages, Paperback

First published June 26, 2022

About the author

Emma Scott is a USA Today and Wall St. Journal bestselling author whose books have been translated in seven languages and featured in Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, New York Daily News and USA Today’s Happy Ever After. Her first MM romance, Someday, Someday won the Utopia Con Award for LGBTQ Book of the Year. Emma writes emotional, character-driven romances in which art and love intertwine to heal, and in which love always wins. If you enjoy emotionally-charged stories that rip your heart out and put it back together again, with diverse characters and heroes who treat their heroines like gold, you will enjoy her novels.

RECENT RELEASES all available now and FREE with KU

The Muse an MM romance

Between Hello & Goodbye

The Sinner, a paranormal angels and demons romance

The Lost Boys, a three-book series of interconnected standalones

The Girl in the Love Song
When You Come Back to Me
The Last Piece of His Heart

Someday, Someday M/M romance (Winner! LGBTQ Book of the Year, Utopia Con)

A Five-Minute Life


UPCOMING RELEASES:

The Muse 2022

You can follow me on all the places...

emmascottwrites.com

Super-cute NON SPAMMY newsletter: http://bit.ly/2nTGLf6

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2fqUULx

author page: https://www.facebook.com/EmmaScottwri...

Reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/90674...

Email: emmascottpromo@gmail.com

Reviews

[♥︎ Heather ⚔ (New House-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗ 4.25 𝓢𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓼 ˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗

⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ "𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓮𝓹𝓽𝓱 𝓸𝓯 𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓹𝓾𝓵𝓼𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓫𝓮𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓴𝓲𝓼𝓼 𝓶𝓪𝓭𝓮 𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓮𝓮𝓵 𝓪𝓼 𝓲𝓯 𝓲𝓽 𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓹𝓮𝓻𝓶𝓪𝓷𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓶𝓪𝓻𝓴 𝓸𝓷 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽." 𓍯𓂃𓏧♡

Omg. I'm telling you - Emma Scott does not miss with me! This story delivered on every thanggggg - every thang.

I sobbed, I laughed, I swooned- so so good.

ೃ⁀➷ ⋆·˚ ༘ *ꕤ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ꕤ ༊*·˚

Faith our FMC is a bit of a party girl, not taking too many things very seriously. She does have a great job at an ad agency and is up for promotion until a partner at the firm sits her down for a talking to. She has the potential, drive and ingenuity to become partner herself, but she needs to get her life in order and stop showing up for work when it suits her and often while nursing a hangover.

Her best friend Vivienne encourages her wayward lifestyle and her drunk one-night stands. She is offered a partnership at work on the condition she cleans up her act and shows a better work ethic.

She decides that's it - she clearly wants to further her career and so she decides to take a little time off to collect herself. She heads off to Hawaii for a week of relaxation and self-reflection. While on an outing she injures herself and what do you know - local EMTs and firefighters show up to rescue her.

Our MMC Asher comes from a troubled childhood, his parents were not the best to put it mildly and he found himself in a parental/guardian type of role for his younger brother. He's vowed to always protect him - his brother is now grown and married with a child himself, but Asher still feels the guilt of their upbringing and hasn't quite gotten to the place where he's comfortable opening up and having a serious relationship of his own.­

She's a city girl on vacation and he's a small island boy fighting fires in the forests of Hawaii - sparks fly but how could it ever work?

ೃ⁀➷ ⋆·˚ ༘ *ꕤ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ꕤ ༊*·˚

Besties - let me just tell you that I sat here today at home but working on my pc while reading this book today with tears streaming down my face. Words cannot even begin to express how Emma Scott has the ability to cut so deep and at the same time heal you with her stories.

First, I can't remember the last time I read about a firefighter being a love interest and hello I need more firefighters in my life now. I am OBSESSED with the main male characters that Emma creates in her fantastic freaking mind. They are such loving, humorous, caring, sweet cinnamon rolls - green flags all the way. Buket I'm looking at you. lol.

Asher had my heart right away. I swear, after the prologue I was done for. Stick a fork in me. He's so wholesome, well rounded and just genuinely so good. He also has an edge to him... like a little spice but nothing crazy and ugh it just makes him so freaking delicious. Love him.

Faith was actually pretty relatable all things considered; I enjoyed her as a character. No real complaints.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ The writing is beautiful as always; the pacing was great. I never found myself bored or in a lull. I was utterly captivated with this story. It's about love and loss, grief and healing. Both poignant and cathartic while also conveying hope and healing.

The epilogue brings this story to a lovely end. It is a thought provoking look at finding a way of working out what you need and want, then having the courage to go for it so you can have the best life possible. A heartfelt but also passionate look at long distance relationships and the healing power of finding the right person to spend your life with.

Definitely highly recommend!

ꕤ⁀₊➷💛Opposites Attract
;༊ ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➞ 🧡Grumpy/Sunshine
ꕤ⁀₊➷💛First Responder
;༊ ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➞🧡Found Family
ꕤ⁀₊➷💛Alpha MMC
;༊ ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➞🧡Fun/Witty FMC

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

“Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, to know the unknowable.”

Emma Scott is one of my top favorite authors and books like this remind me why. Between Hello and Goodbye is beautiful, romantic and profound. The scenery was stunning and made me wish I was there in Kauai with Asher and Faith. Scott is the ultimate storyteller and really brought her ‘A game’ with this book.

Faith Benson is a character we know and love from ‘Someday Someday’ (if you haven’t read it, that’s okay- this can be read as a complete stand-alone) but she’s a bit of a wild child. She works when she wants, comes and goes as she pleases, and loves to party, shop, and lives her life the way she wants. Until she decides she needs a change. And that change takes her on a trip to Hawaii.

Asher Mackey followed his younger brother to Hawaii years ago and is a firefighter on the island. Asher and Faith’s meet cute is the absolute best. I loved seeing them meet and start to slowly fall for one another. Being on this island changes Faith. It opens her eyes to other things and makes her see her life differently. It also changes Asher and things he thought, and things he thought he wanted.

“Are we in trouble, firefighter?” I understood her meaning. Because I could read her, and she could read me, and neither one of us wanted to do much else besides figure each other out. “Not yet,” I said quietly. “But we’re getting there.”

Asher was my favorite kind of grumpy hero. He had a heart of gold and I completely and utterly adored him and his family. Then there was Faith. Faith had so much growth in this book. I love seeing a character change like this in a book. There were so many amazing secondary characters as well.

Between Hello and Goodbye is such an epic read. This one had some lighter moments, a lot of character growth, and touched a good bit on grief and loss, which was handled with raw honesty and grace. Emma’s writing once again blew me away. I already know this one will be on my top favorites of 2022 list!

"To survive and thrive and to know that our capacity to love doesn't diminish with loss. The single candle can light a thousand more, and we can find our way out of the darkness.”

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

'𝔹𝔼𝕋𝕎𝔼𝔼ℕ ℍ𝔼𝕃𝕃𝕆 𝔸ℕ𝔻 𝔾𝕆𝕆𝔻𝔹𝕐𝔼' Is a full-length standalone romance book by Emma Scott. Spoken in 'dual perspectives.'

From the cover to the blurb, to the author I knew I wanted and needed this book in my life, as I said previously if she re-wrote the phone book I'd read it. I'd been in such a funk with my go-to genre until this book but I feel it's put me in another funk because nothing compares to this book. From the characters to the location in Kauai, I felt like I was there, surrounded by all the chooks, and the islands cuisine. Emma Scott fast became one of my top authors and she's been cemented in that spot ever since.



Faith & Asher were perfection at its best, these two were the perfect match both at cross roads in their respective careers needing to make some hard decisions but when these two met it made those decisions that much harder. Their journeys and story had those heartstrings pulled numerous times throughout this heartfelt beautiful story.

* Teaser used is the authors *

                  

[Emma Scott]

Now LIVE and FREE in KU!
https://amzn.to/37SVdNX

🌸 Opposites attract
🌸 Grumpy hero/sunshine heroine
🌸 First responder
🌸 all the feels <3

[Phuong ✯ · Rating 4 out of 5]

– 4.25 stars

review to come. (or maybe not.) 🏃🏻‍♀️

[Warda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do hate it when I’m reading a book I’m adoring and the author makes a decision about the direction of their story that I don’t completely vibe with.

Now, I love Emma Scott. The books that I’ve read from her all have hit me in a way all good stories hit and this was no exception. It was gorgeous. Up until it wasn’t.

The first 70% of this book or so was absolutely stunning for me. The reading experience was heavenly and I was so lost in Asher and Faith. 🥹 You could feel the connection they had. The banter was impeccable. The plot was moving in a great way. It was deliciously painful seeing them together and figuring out how to make things between them permanent despite life’s obstacles getting in the way. Everything about the story was working.

But the plot choice that the author decided to make just didn’t work for me. I was left feeling cold and instead of it feeling like a natural progression from one thing to the other, it was just jarring.

I mean, I guess you could say that jarring element might have been intentional. It’s true to real life. But it didn’t sit with me in the way that I would’ve liked. It took me out of the story. And things after that just felt… dramatic? Like this Chloe character. No point to her at all. 🙄

So, I’m left feeling conflicted. On one hand, I loved so much about this story. But the ending wasn’t my personal favourite.

3.5 ⭐️

[EmBibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

“We’re stuck, aren’t we? Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”

Something I’m thankful for is that I’m finally done with my freakin long hiatus and that I’m back here reading all those good books I missed while I was gone during this stressful year!🙌

I really liked both those characters and liked watching them grow. Their relationship was so sweet and lovely despite their struggles. Silas is so freakin precious as well. And I really do like Hawaii and how the author portrayed it, and might even consider going their for some relaxing time if I weren’t so freakin broke.

[Bibi · Rating 3 out of 5]

*2.5*

At the 52% mark precisely, I knew someone would have to die because the plot had nowhere else to go; in fact, I made a note and sure enough not one but two people died.


I hate when authors use death of a loved character to create tension or a twist, especially when the aftermath is so predictable.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Scott, thank you. Between Hello and Goodbye was so beautiful. I have read a few other books written by Emma Scott, and they have destroyed me, so I had my tissues on deck with this one. My heart was broken, but the ending put my heart back together. I loved and adored this book so much!!! I loved the characters so much, each and every one of them had my heart. I love how this book took place in Hawaii, it felt like I was right there on the island witnessing everything. Between Hello and Goodbye was no exception, Emma Scott absolutely DELIVERED with this book!!!! I was hooked from the very first page and couldn't put it down. At times while reading this book it felt like my heart was being shredded to pieces and being ripped right out of my chest. Let me just say, this book is one of my favorites. Thank you Emma Scott for writing this beautiful and amazing story. This story is about healing, love, and living with guilt.

"Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, to know the unknowable."

In Between Hello and Goodbye we follow the journey of Faith Benson, along with Asher Mackey. Faith is a city girl in Seattle, Washington. Asher is a firefighter in Kauai, Hawaii. Faith is not the type of person you want as your emergency contact, she's a total party girl who likes to have a good time with friends and drink during Happy Hour. Faith loves her mimosas at brunch, and martinis at Happy Hour. Faith has a job at a Seattle ad agency, she loves her job a lot, but when her boss demands that Faith takes a leave of absence to get her head clear and stay out of trouble, Faith knows that she must not tell her best friend Viv where she's going because she'll know Viv will try and come with so they can just party non-stop. Faith decides to take a vacation to Hawaii. There's no one better at landing big accounts other than Faith at work, but that's only when she shows up not with a hangover from the previous night. The cover is so so so gorgeous!!!

Faith decides to take a trip to the island of Kauai, Hawaii away from all things that could jeopardize her job. On the first day of her trip, Faith decides to go hiking, but the only problem is that it's muddy and she's hiking in sandals, Faith takes a little slip down the trail and ends up with a twisted ankle. Someone notices that Faith fell, and calls for help. But who arrives? A gorgeous firefighter, Asher Mackey. Faith has to get airlifted by helicopter to the local island hospital. Knowing my own self, this sounds exactly like something I would do. Asher awakens feelings in Faith's heart that she never knew existed. But the thing is, Asher doesn't get involved with beautiful tourists because he doesn't want to watch them leave the beautiful island. After reading this book, it made me want to travel to Hawaii. Please, please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this book, you definitely won't be disappointed.

Between Hello and Goodbye will have you cheering for all of the beautiful characters, it will make you laugh, but it will also make you sob. Asher has devoted his life to the safety and care of everyone around him, except for himself. Until Asher meets Faith, the city girl who is vibrant, whose inner beauty shines a light on the dark corners of his life, showing Asher how safe but empty his life really is. Despite how fast and hard these two fall for each other, there's an ocean between them. Faith lives in Seattle, Washington, and Asher lives in Hawaii. Reading this beautiful, yet heart breaking book is honestly the best way to spend your day. This book is one of my many favorite contemporary romance books. I love Emma Scott and her beautiful writing, so, I will continue to read other books by this author.

[Arini · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖🎵: Come Back...Be Here by Taylor Swift

reading about two people being madly in love and in a long distance relationship has never felt this rollercoaster-y.

ive read a few of Emma Scotts works, but this was the first one that ive ever truly liked and had the most fun time reading. HOWEVER, the way i wanted to give this book all the stars to zero star at the drop of a hat... was devastating. i absolutely loved the first 70% of this book, but the big plot twist at the end was too much... too tragic... i cant. 😭 it made me want to throw the book across the room.

this story was divided into three parts. part I was the H & h spending time together doing all kinds of exciting, touristy stuff. it was enjoyable and lighthearted even though there was this foreboding feeling of “whats going to happen when the h leaves?” part II was the H & h navigating relationship while being oceans away. it was angsty, but they made it work. they always made an effort to visit the other.

then part III was when shit hit the fan. this book came with a trigger warning for grief & loss, but i totally forgot about it because the first two parts of the book lulled me into a sense of security that everything was gonna be alright and i’d get my HEA. part III shattered that peace, and i was so mad but at the same time wanted to sob tears of heartbreak. it did have a happy ending in the end.

so yeah, captivating characters, whirlwind romance, emotional love story, shitty plot twist, but i’d still recommend!

[Joanne Ragona · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Life wasn’t just one thing. Or even one place. It was boundless potential and experiences waiting to be explored.”

A work of beauty. That was my first thought as I finished this book. Emma Scott not only delivers a stunning romance but a powerful story of personal growth, grief, and healing. She leaves her heart on the pages, which is clear to anyone that knows her, as so many personal experiences are shared through Faith and Asher’s love story. It is moving, emotional, and just simply beautiful.

“But life doesn’t hold still. It’s abundant with experiences, not all of them easy.”

Faith Benson is unapologetically real. She is successful in her advertising job but not so much in her personal life. She knows her faults and is looking to make a change. A two week “reset” on the island of Kauai in Hawaii is her plan to get her life in order. She doesn’t however plan on meeting Asher Mackey, the handsome firefighter who comes to her aid when she has a mishap on a hiking trail.

“He saved me and ruined me at the exact same time.”

As Faith and Asher get to know one another, the healing process begins as Faith finds serenity on the beautiful island and profound comfort and peace with Asher and his family. We are introduced to so many wonderful characters…my favorite being Momi, an 82 year old Hawaiian woman who is full of wisdom and gentle advice. I adored her. We also get to see past characters, Silas Marsh and Max Kaufman from Someday, Someday. Silas has a significant role in this story as Faith’s best friend and confidante.

As Faith and Asher grow closer, their relationship is tested by distance, their flourishing careers, and the fact that neither is willing to give up their home. Asher is a fierce protector and his family means everything; the thought of leaving them behind is unfathomable. Faith is being offered partner at her firm. She loves her job and her big city life in Seattle. They both know this relationship will be difficult to navigate.

“Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”

Just when we think things may be sorted out, devastation strikes and Asher and Faith’s world gets turned upside down. Empty spaces are left unfilled, guilt and grief are all-consuming, and hearts are shattered.

This book will captivate you. Faith will make you laugh. Asher will make you swoon. Their chemistry is off the charts. And Emma Scott’s words will touch your soul. Beyond the heartfelt romance is such a poignant look at love, loss, and healing. Pure beauty. Genuine love. Authentic Emma Scott. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Shabby -BookBistroBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is like a personal pilgrimage for Emma Scott. She's still trying to find some sense in the tragedy that destroyed her family in 2018 and this book seems like a personal closure of sorts, an homage to personal grief and heroes that emerge from enduring it.

“Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, to know the unknowable.”



This heartfelt sentimental book just takes your breath away. Pain started from Emma's soul and traveled to mine with every turn of the page.
It touched me in places deep in my heart and I was one with her sorrow.
In that sense i became the mother longing for her previous baby.

"Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation."



Exactly like the Hero Asher Mackey, superhero to many, firefighter to Kauai, Hawaii.
He literally and figuratively saves Faith Benson and she in turn rescues him from his personal hell hole dug deep due to a tragedy early on in his life.
She's using Kauai as her emotional rehab stint, a mental rest of some sort because her professional life was spiralling in Seattle.
Their tussle to give in to their palpable attraction or stay away from complications was hilarious to watch cause we readers knew, as Momi did, Life happens when lovers are busy Making plans!!



"She was a blazing inferno that melted all cold fronts and made it impossible to keep my distance."

Emma uses the word Aloha to express the life journey between Hello & Goodbye. Ironically and tragically Hellos between Asher & Faith leads to sizzling romance, and Hello between ocean and Asher leads to tranquility.

“We’re stuck, aren’t we? Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”



Hawaii also becomes a Hello for Morgan to find his personal slice of family heaven.
But Life is cruelly full of unpleasant surprises and stunning twists.
This makes the story wholesome and tearful. I was tearing up towards the end and cried for mercy.
It felt like the story takes a wrong turn and goes on an unexpected road.

“You rewrite the story, and you get a different ending.”

What to do? How to cope? Where did the love go?
Emma flexes her writing muscles yet again in this remarkably poignant story that will ultimately resonate with every reader in some way or the other. It's sublime & divine in content, handled with reverence, served with piety like a religious experience. But somehow is very light hearted and passionate in treatment.
A wholesome, outstanding book indeed..
5 Alohas for Spirit and Soul
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻

[NMmomof4 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but sadly not as good as I think it could’ve been. I liked the characters. I liked the h’s wit and their banter. I just felt like it was flowing well and then hit a wall where it got a little…boring. It, sadly, did not tap into my emotions even though I recognize that it was sad. I just didn’t connect with it I guess. I know that this author has the capability to get into those feels because she wrote some of my faves with the Full Tilt duet! I know others loved this, I just did not unfortunately…

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Faith and Asher’s story. Party girl Faith is given an ultimatum at work and put on administrative leave. She goes to Kauai alone for some introspection and ends up injured on her first day. Asher is a firefighter on the island and meets Faith on a call and his protective instincts kick in and he feels the need to help her heal. They share an instant connection and attraction, but they both realize that they are not wanting the usual one night stand with the other and actually want to spend time together without the physical. But with them living many miles apart in their real lives, things get difficult when they try to make things work. There is some heavy baggage they have to work through, some sweet moments, some sexy times, and some sad scenes…and they get a HEA ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Faith and Asher’s POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. It did feel slow in the middle, but I never skimmed.

Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Asher. I liked him but I didn’t like how he always kept everyone at arms length.

h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Faith. I liked her. I appreciated her wits and strength.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes They both push away and both pursue the relationship at times

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes There is an OW that is interested in the H and around his family that causes some (mild) drama for the couple

Sex scene with OW or OM: No There is an after an ONS scene with the h and OM but no descriptive scene before she meets the H. There is also a scene of her waking up after a drunk night during the break with the H where she is in her underwear with the same man as the ONS at the beginning, but he claims that they didn’t even kiss and did not sleep together.

Cheating: Not IMO (see last spoiler tag ^^)

Separation: Yes They are separated for ~3 months (?), but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time.

Possible Triggers: Yes Both were only into casual relationships before each other and got around (off page), drug addiction (off page), and loss of loved ones (on page)

Closure: This has good closure and what I would call a HEA ending they’re married with children. I would’ve been much happier with more of this closure though since the conflict is resolved and then it jumps into a HEA, which is becoming one of my biggest pet peeves.

Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences

- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM (see above)
- Does have both the H and h pushing away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending

[Malene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I needed an escapism and Between Hello and Goodbye delivered. I was transported to Hawaii. It was vivid and it was serene. Peaceful.
Between Hello and Goodbye was a glorious friends to lovers romance. A romance with plenty of emotions.

Faith was a fabulous heroine. Very relatable. She’s stagnant in life. She lost sight of herself and what she wants out of life. Working, partying and sleeping with men. Rinse and repeat.
Asher has kind of lost sight of himself too. He loves and cares so hard. Takes care of everyone but himself.
When Asher is part of Faith’s rescue mission lightning strikes. Down on both. Incredible chemistry and the connection they slowly form thanks to the island Kauai is undeniable.
Faith slowly rediscovers herself thanks to Asher. They’re both irrevocably changed after spending two incredible weeks together filled with laughter, adventure and sex. So amazing.

Faith and Asher’s relationship has its ups and downs. It’s an emotional and personal journey they both embark on. How to make a relationship work when there’s loss and grief. It’s a beautiful story cause it’s deals with a topic everyone in one way or another can relate to.
At times it hurt to follow Asher and Faith but the reward was so worth it. They both grow so much along the way and definitely find the light out of the darkness. Absolutely perfection.

5 North Stars

*ARC

[Robin Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Someday, Someday (which completely owned me, by the way), we meet Faith, Silas’s shallow yet refreshingly honest BFF—a side character with questionable morals who’s self-centered and supremely flawed… Except, no character in an Emma Scott book is just a side character. All her characters have main-character depth, are redeemable, relatable, root-for-able…(that's a word, right?). Ms. Scott could blindly pluck any one of her characters from any one of her books and turn him/her into the hero/heroine of our romance-loving dreams. And Faith is case in point.

Faith and Asher’s journey isn’t an easy one, and if you’ve read Ms. Scott before, you probably suspected as much. She goes for the jugular this time—not just in the direction her plot takes but in the way her own painfully personal experiences are woven through it. What we're left with is a love story that’s emotional, heartrending, moving, and authentic.

Between Hello & Goodbye is easily one of my top ten favorites of the year and a perfect example of why I love romance.

[Sonya ♕Chatterbooks book blog♕ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't know how much I needed this book until I started reading it. It came without an emotional warning and I knew that from reading the prologue, I was in for it. But still nothing could've prepared me for these messy unforgettable characters and sometimes, the unexpected can be just the thing we need the most.

Faith Benson has been burning herself out and it’s starting to catch up with her. The partying, the men, showing up to work late and leaving early, has all been too much and she’s starting to hate the woman she’s seeing in the mirror. Taking a two week break from everything including her job to the remote island of Kauai in Hawaii is just the thing that this city girl needs. But her trip doesn't go off as planned and in return she meets a handsome firefighter who’s going to make her want to break her own rules.



Asher Mackey loves his quiet island life and he has no plans of ever trying to settle down. He’s comfortable in his space, has a job that he loves and a family that he would do anything for. Quiet and simple is what he craves but that won't be the case when he meets the new tourist who’s going to quickly change everything for him in the next two weeks.



I really liked the setting of the story and I could visualize everything on the islande. From the restaurants to the beaches, to the roads and the scenic routes, I saw it all and I definitely felt a calmness and a sense of peace to it. I will admit that things were slow for the first half of the book and that did put a damper on things for me for a bit but at the same time, I understood the buildup. These characters needed to figure themselves out and do some growing as individuals so I got it.

This story is about self discovery, learning to love yourself, finding love, experiencing heartbreak and just doing what is best for you at the end of the day. It’s about sacrifice, loss, finding that one thing that you never knew you could live without. So often we say the words Hello and Goodbye and they’re just words in passing but “Hello'' hit differently when I read this story and “Goodbye” was even more touching because it was loved and selfless.

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the most heartfelt, beautiful stories I’ve read in years. Definitely my top favorite for this year.





With a hero and heroine that are not only likable, but that are dealing with real life issues that can not be easily fixed, my heart immediately linked with Faith and Asher. I loved the way they met and the immediate chemistry that sparked between them. Asher’s reluctance to get to know Faith more and doing so anyway, is a trait that I adore in a hero. That pull that can’t be denied. What followed was a bit of push and pull and enough steam to rival a volcano eruption.





Every new book by this author runs me through a gauntlet of emotions and Between Hello and Goodbye did the same. Even as I was at the top of the mountain and cheering this couple on, things took a turn that left me broken hearted and sobbing. I may have pulled myself together, but within a few pages, I’m broken again. Just a few carefully crafted words and my heart is shattered. And then with the special magic that only this author can perform, my heart is restored, still remembering the storm, but moving forward into the sunshine.





I highly recommend this to anyone who is not affected by the possible triggers and who loves a story that will take you from smiling one moment, to excitement and thrills, and then plummeting you into the abyss but still ensuring you will have a traditional and happy ever after.

Dual POV
Safe h frequently gets drunk and sleeps with random men; H sleeps with tourist for a night or two; a tidbit of other woman drama as a friend who wants to be with H is helping him out and presents that situation to the h in a way that sounds like it’s more than it really is - causes h to leave but within a few paragraphs it is resolved; after separation from H, h gets drunk and wakes up with former one night stand but nothing happened including no kiss
Triggers grief; loss of loved one; parental drug abuse and neglect
Steam 5/5 ; Explicit; condoms used and birth control discussed

[Dora Koutsoukou]

Undoubtedly, I had high expectations for the author’s new release. I loved the cover and I was intrigued by the blurb, but unfortunately it didn't captivate me as much as I anticipated.

I devoured the prologue with Asher’s background.
However, I didn’t like the heroine at all.
She made me feel miserable.
Sadness is one thing and misery is another. There's a great difference.

I am not sure if the term is correct, but I could say she had psychological disorders.
She didn’t exactly know what she wanted out of life, maybe from other people too, and her story bored me and left me completely uninterested.
Faith was a character that I couldn’t connect with, she wasn’t approachable.

Many of you may not accept or agree with my pov towards the heroine. I tried but I didn’t find any attributes or aspects of her character in order to just like this woman. (At least after finishing the first 5 chapters.)
Regardless, I am happy if you did.

However, Asher’s story did intrigue me but he couldn’t save my interest...
I felt sorry for the hero, what he went through to save his brother and himself, and that he had to leave his previous life for a new start.

It isn't the first time I've read about a heroine with issues, but Faith didn’t touch my heart or evoked any positive emotions. She left me unimpressed and frustrated me.
Dnf @ 23%

[MJLovestoRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between Hello and Goodbye is a true tour de force. A simply beautifully written story that only Emma Scott can create. In fact, there is so much of the author in this book, I found myself grinning with a sense that she experienced a bit of catharsis while crafting this gem. It's as if she pushed through yet another wall of her grief and wrote a story that is abundant with feelings and is a real tribute to her girls and the love they radiate to their thankful mama.

With two lonely souls in Asher and Faith, Scott tells a tale of the need for more in one's life and to be grateful for who and what are already present. Both characters are somewhat stagnant personally albeit quite successful in their professional lives. But when their worlds collide as Faith finds herself stranded in the tranquil wilds of Hawaii, it's Asher and his fire department who rescue her. This, of course, turns into the kind of adventure neither saw coming, with this reader beyond hopeful they might just rescue each other's hearts in the process.

I was gloriously enraptured by the sights and sounds of Kauai, our magnificent backdrop to this book. It is without a doubt one of the most incredible places on this earth. And Scott gives us a front-row seat to all the beauty, quirky (hello to all the wild chickens out there!), and peace this island radiates. For Faith, her mandated exile from the fast pace of her corporate life in Seattle clearly has a shaky start. She's so capable, taking control of a meeting on no sleep and being a bit hungover yet she couldn't find that same kind of reward in her personal life. But it's like Kauai, or maybe it's the sexy grump in Asher, who finally awakens something in her that she couldn't quite grasp or perhaps was scared to. Faith is kind and loyal and despite her early somewhat diva kind of qualities is really a simple girl at heart. The fact that Asher can't seem to stay away from her even though it's not protocoled to constantly check up on a rescue proved over and over that they have a spark that needed the right amount of patience in order to finally burst into flames.

Asher. The epitome of selflessness he takes care of his own no matter what it may cost him. The fact that he made sure his younger brother Morgan had the life he deserved when their mother deserted them in both mind and body said it all. How he left NYC because Morgan needed Kauai and how he's made a life there but not one that has any true passion. I felt as if there were times he was just going through the motions just to make it to another day. The detour that is Faith was exactly what Asher needed. And their slow-burn companionship from barely being able to tolerate the other, to one where they realize just what they have found within each other is something that I could not get enough of. Especially with chemistry like theirs which is white-hot featuring sensual trysts that are full of passion and desire.

The fact that Faith is a bestie to the one and only Silas Marsh speaks volumes IMO. If you haven't as yet met Silas, you must read Someday, Someday. Faith and Silas have this wonderful friendship that was built on a bit of a lie but has blossomed into one that is to be envied. I love that he is there for her no questions asked and helps guide his girl when needed. She is such a special person and I was glad she had Silas to help keep her head held high even when it started to falter.

Without giving anything away, the fact that the book takes a very dramatic turn when least expected, had me gasping out loud. Just like in real life, the proverbial rug clearly gets pulled out from underneath Asher and Faith and it left me guessing whether or not these two could come back from what transpires. I knew their love would have to be tested, I mean what love isn't? But Asher's penchant for being a martyr at times combined with Faith's own self-doubt left a big hole in their happy. And I could only hope they'd find their way back to one another before it was too late.

With nods to events and moments that took place in her own life, Emma Scott has meticulously crafted a story that is built on the hope that love can conquer all. And not just the love of a good man or woman. But a love of one's self. That you can take a second to realize that the world keeps turning even when you want it to stop but that those around you won't allow you to fall. That the worst kind of despair will not last forever and that the sun will rise again and you'll feel just a little bit better with each new day. She couldn't have picked a better name for her heroine since faith is what we all need from time to time to help smooth over those inevitable rough patches in life.

Between Hello and Goodbye is the kind of read that is quite simply good for the soul. I applaud Emma Scott for always giving her all and not being afraid to write the hard even when it might be painful to do so. This intricate love story between Asher and Faith will take you on a road that is filled with bumps and turns and unexpected roadblocks. But just know that every diversion, minor or otherwise is beyond worth it. With an epilogue that had me smiling through my tears, I happily give this superb book a huge 5+++++ stars.

[warhawke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
4.35 Stars



For years Faith Benson lived her life without any idea which direction she was heading. Meeting Asher Mackey when she was at a crossroad could either lead her to the right path or one that could destroy her.



I enjoyed the overall storyline, especially with the sights and sounds of the remote Hawaiian island vibe. The story was light and somewhat slow in the first 70% of the book. Thankfully it got more intense and emotional towards the end of the book.

This city was her natural habitat, and I snuffed out whatever unspoken hope may have been lurking in my heart. It wasn’t fair to her to do anything else.

I loved Asher’s quiet presence and how much he put his heart and soul into his family. And I liked seeing how Faith put effort into being a better person for herself.

Between Hello and Goodbye is a story of sacrifices and reconciliation with life. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a lightly emotional Contemporary Romance.








For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute fool I was, thinking I'd make it through this book unscathed.



Between Hello and Goodbye is a swoony, heartfelt, heartaching, devastating, beauty of a book. And it's the book that almost caused me to break up with Emma Scott.
Spoiler Alert- I would never break up with Emma.
You can tell Emma left part of her soul within the pages- part of my heart was left within them as well.

Asher and Faith's love story is so emotional, so passionate and all consuming. Asher is everything you could want, in not just a book boyfriend, but in a book husband- protective and loving, strong and oh so swoony. Faith is so much more than just the good time girl she'd have you to believe. She's fierce and strong in her own right. Ms. Scott takes these two, and the reader, on a truly emotional journey, one of love, loss, acceptance, and self discovery.

Like every book of Emma's, Between Hello and Goodbye has take up residence in my heart. A heart so full, yet broken at the same time.

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 💛💛💛💛💛

Loved!! Loved!! Loved!! A beautiful, poignant, uplifting journey of finding yourself, finding love and finding peace in a world that can sometimes bring tragedy when you least expect it.

This author has such a magnificent way of telling stories. You become one with the story and she makes you feel every big and little emotion that the story brings forth. She tells the nitty gritty and doesn’t shy away from real life. Between Hello and Goodbye is filled with great banter, charming sexual tension, full on passion, an unexpected tragedy, grief and healing, and redeeming love. While Asher and Faith find one another, the secondary characters in this story are what brings these two home. Each one is extraordinary to go along with the main hero and heroine.

Faith and Asher are the perfect match. Their courtship is suppose to be of friendship but their chemistry can’t be denied. Once they fall off the cliff, their fate is sealed. But when an ocean literally separates you, something has to give. And we get to see how hard it is to be together when you don’t live in the same state. There needs to be growth, maturity, and that burning desire to be together for the answers to start revealing themselves. Faith and Asher’s journey is full of real and raw emotions that are easily relatable and also comforting because love can be found in the most unlikeliest of places.

This will be a Best of 2022 for me and while I finished the story, the sweetness and the awakening for Faith and Asher still remains in my heart.

*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

[Radd Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hardship opens doors in our hearts that would otherwise remain locked.”

“Your heart is safe with me. I’ll take good care of it. I promise.”

<><> Story Overview <><>
^^ ~ On the day Faith lands a huge account with Nestle, she is given a two week leave for being flaky and unreliable. So she heads to Hawaii, hoping she will be able to take some time to reevaluate her life choices and really discover who she is and what she wants. However, Hawaii has a slightly different plan for her when she has a small accident and needs to be rescued - Enter Asher.

Asher isn’t very impressed with Faith when he first meets her. But he recognizes her need to reset her life and he wants to help her. They begin spending time together and by the time she heads back to Seattle, they definitely have formed a bond neither is willing to sever.

“I don’t know what I’m trying to do here but I do know that I need to keep my hands to myself and focus on me. If I sleep with anyone, it’d be like falling off the wagon.”
“Noted,” Asher said. He shot me an arch smile. “But if you do want to fall off the wagon, I volunteer as enabler.”

“We’re stuck, aren’t we? Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”


<><> Characters <><>
Hero: Asher Mackey
~ Age: 30
~ Occupation: firefighter / paramedic
~ Asher’s dad left when he was eleven and within five years his mom was hooked on drugs. When a fire engulfed their trailer, sixteen year old Asher grabbed his brother Morgan and fled, never looking back. It was up to Asher to find a way for them to survive.

Fast forward fourteen years later and Asher had a successful (but draining and toxic) career as a hedge fund manager on Wall Street. He knew he needed to change his path and headed to Hawaii to be closer to his brother. There, he reinvented himself and became a firefighter and a paramedic.

* The following words/phrases were used to describe Asher: competent, protective, rescues people, knight in shining armor, commanding, afraid of being betrayed, grumpy,

~ “It sounds stupid or cheesy, but I feel connected to something bigger when I sit with the ocean. Like I’m a part of something old and deep.”.”


Heroine: Faith Mabel Benson
~ Age: late 20’s, I think
~ Occupation: graduated with a degree in Quantitative Economics. Works in advertising
~ A few years ago, Faith pretended to be engaged to billionaire Silas Marsh. The fake relationship ended when Silas admitted he was gay and fell in love with Max (Someday, Someday). When everything was revealed, Faith got an expensive condo and a best friend (Silas) out of the deal. Faith’s parents are divorced and mostly absent from her life. They are wealthy and have better things to do than care about the fact they have a daughter.

Lately, Faith’s life has mostly been about booze, one night stands and partying and she’s finding she’s dissatisfied.

* The following words/phrases were used to describe Faith: charming, fun, fiery, needs a mental spring-cleaning, trying to figure out who she is, great sense of humor, good at reading people, not judgmental, great energy, nothing-fazes-me demeanor

~ “I want what you have, Silas, but I don’t know how to let someone in. Because what if I do and they don’t like what they see? I don’t. Not lately.”

<><> A Few Thoughts <><>
^^ ~ I loved the imagery the author painted around Kauai. The people, the food, the location descriptions really made me feel like I was in Hawaii.

^^ ~ No made up stuff here. These two are dealing with real life issues and it made the characters completely relatable and instantly likable

^^ ~ Faith did not give up and I loved that about her. Over and over things didn’t go her way, but she was determined to think positively and try anyway. Her good attitude and determination made her an easy to character to like

^^ ~ the Titanic Rose, Jack and the “door” debate made me smile. I liked Asher’s POV on the subject. :)

^^ ~ the last 20% - oh boy. That was tough. My heart hurt for the characters, but I knew the author would bring them through the storm to a place where they would find peace and happiness.

^^ ~ i probably say this in every review I write for this author, but there is a reason she is my favorite. In the authors note at the end she wrote this: “I write about trauma. Specifically, I write about people surviving and eventually learning to thrive and heal after trauma.” Gah - this is why I love her!! I’ve read over a dozen of her books and I’ve never been disappointed. She always brings all the feels, the characters have great depth with heartbreaking falls and beautiful triumphs and her storytelling is magic.


<><> The Basics <><>
- Content Warning: loss of a loved one, mention of drug use, addicted parents, absent parents
- Setting: Kauai, Hawaii
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: Faith was introduced in Someday Someday. She was a fake fiancé to a wealthy gay man who wasn’t out of the closet. I really liked her in that story.
- POV: Dual POV
- Hero likable? Yes
- heroine likable? Yes
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 42%
- First time they sleep together: 45%
- Safe sex? Yes. Condoms were used. Later (after the all important safety discussion) no condoms used
- First time they say I Love You: 76%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- Chemistry? I thought they had good chemistry
- OW/OM drama? a tiny bit.
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? they kind of had a long distance relationship for about six months. They broke up for three weeks
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? yes. 77% was devastating
- Did I laugh? I smiled a few times
- Did I swoon🥰? Yes. Asher’s protective streak made him quite swoony on several occasions.
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Two years later
- Recommend? Yes


<><> Quotes <><>
“The Hottest Firefighter in the World is named Ash, I thought. Made sense. He probably set panties on fire.”

“You’re growing on me.” I shot her a half-smile. “Like a barnacle.”

“There’s a literal ocean between us, and yet…” He reached across the table to take my hand. “I don’t see how this can go anywhere, but the last fucking thing I want to think about is saying goodbye.”

“The way through it is to choose your North star—the one thing that means the most.”

“I have a feeling a lot of the misery we go through is because of the story we tell ourselves.”
“You rewrite the story, and you get a different ending.”

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: 5 stars
Audiobook: 3 stars. Female narrator didn't work for me.

Emma Scott has a way of writing a story that just makes it comes to life, and this one is no different.
Between Hello and Goodbye is a story about two people, Faith and Asher that are determined to live the life they want on their terms. Faith is a city girl who loves to party, maybe a little too much. She needs to make a change and a big decision. Asher has been a protector his entire life and loves his job as a firefighter in Kaui. They are so used to being their own person, they struggle to figure out they need each other.

This is a beautiful story that did bring tears to my eyes. I highly recommend this one, just have tissues on hand.

[Wil Loves Books! · Rating 5 out of 5]

My life had been on pause for so long and was now suddenly on fast forward, and yet everything was perfectly right. Exactly the way it was supposed to be.

Emma Scott is one of those authors that every time I read one of their books, it just leaves a mark in my heart and soul. She writes from the heart and with so much heart, you can't help to just feel it, deep down your soul. Her stories are always so different and her characters are always so relatable, you can feel their joy and pain throughout the story. It's been over a week since I read this beautiful book, and it's just so hard to put into words everything I felt while reading it.

I will say this over and over, Emma Scott writes the most incredible heroes, and now I have Asher to add to that list. Seriously, what a wonderful man. She seriously has the swooniest heroes. I also loved Faith. Faith first shows up in Someday, Someday which is one of my favorite books ever, so I've loved her since then. Both Asher and Faith have been through a lot, and at the point in their lives where they find each other, they're not looking for anything, but it's one of those when you know, you know things. But not everything is easy, they live in different states, have different priorities, and being together is just difficult, but they're trying their best, then life just throws them the biggest curve ball.

As always, this is a spoiler free review since this book is not out. I will say that I'm normally not a fan of certain plot twists, especially late in the game. However, I always trust the process and the purpose of why some things are in books to begin with. And when it comes to Emma Scott, I trust her and her process. I think the author's note in the end, explains it all and as with the book it is beautifully written. Life is just unpredictable and it does throws you the most unpredictable and sometime soul crushing curveballs.

Faith and Asher, their relationship, and all the side characters were just great. In the end, this was just a beautiful story about love, loss and making the best out of life. It was so full of feels. The story will suck you in and hold your heart from beginning to end. I'm just honored every time I get to read an Emma Scott book, I hope we get many more in the future.

“We’re stuck, aren’t we? Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

-4.5- ⭐️❤️

I loved it very much. FTCL ☺️



***ARC provided by Valentine PR & Literary Management.

[Crystal's Bookish Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful second chance romance. Lovable characters. Complexities in the relationship. Heavy with the theme of grief.

Will be in my next vlog

[Karen's Utterly Unashamed · Rating 5 out of 5]

"To survive and thrive and to know that our capacity to love doesn't diminish with loss. The single candle can light a thousand more, and we can find our way out of the darkness."

I won't be able to sum this up in words because in reality there are no words for a story this beautiful. A story written through the life, pain, and unthinkable reality of the author. Some of this came directly from the life of Emma Scott. Actual scenes, actual locations. But the important thing to remember when you are reading this book is that is was born from the unimaginable tragedy that was the loss of her beautiful daughter. She talks about her grief and just how low it brought her. She wasn't sure she would ever write again. But then she wrote this story. While the grief comes from different circumstances it is grief all the same. The crushing weight of losing a part of yourself you will never get back. Life changes but it doesn't end for the living left behind. But finding a way out of the grief to the life seems impossible.

"I wasn't there. I wasn't there. I wasn't there."

Asher, Faith, Kal, Momi...they will all need to find their peace. All these characters, including Morgan and Nalani were special and deep and meaningful. Living through the messiness of life starting when Asher and Morgan were kids.

Life is messy. But from the messy comes the most hardfought, soul crushing, lump in your throat, tears streaming down your face love stories. I would have cried during this one no matter what but knowing the grief Emma Scott has risen from to write this story...that's a thing of beauty.

"I keep coming back to the imagery I put in this book-the gold light emanating through gray storm clouds and that pearly beauty that you can't have unless there's been a storm."

Instagram | My Blog | Facebook\

[Ayca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sevgili @Nazlı tavsiyesiyle okuduğum bir kitapla geldim bugün. Başlangıçta basit ve hızlı başlayan, ama ilerledikçe duygu yoğunluğu ve hissettirdikleriyle sevdiğim bir kitap oldu. İki karakterini de oldukça sevdim. Birbirleri için vazgeçtikleri ve yine birbirleri için verdikleri kararlar, olması gerektiği gibiydi. Yazım dilini de sevdim, gayet akıcıydı. Yazarın son sayfalarda attığı gol olmasaydı beş yıldız verecektim, ama o kısım kalbimi kırdığı için dört yıldızla veda ettim. Keyifli, dram dozu tam kıvamında olan, harika bir adada geçen kitabımızı okumak isterseniz tavsiye ederim.

[Jenny - TotallybookedBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We’re stuck, aren’t we? Trapped somewhere between hello and goodbye.”

Everything from the cover to the story of Between Hello and Goodbye by Emma Scott was just beautiful! We always relish that exciting and enticing feeling as we open a new book by this Author. We know we’ll fall in love, feel emotionally invested and find moments of utter beauty and poignancy between the pages. Emma Scott writes from her heart, weaving parts of herself into her stories with sublime intensity and vivid imagery.

‘But is it living life when you can’t even remember it?’
‘…you don’t know what else is out there until you sit still for a minute.’

There hasn’t been a time spent when engrossed in her world, where we haven’t shed a tear or felt overwrought with emotion. Yet we also marvel at the splendid beauty and wonderfully complex characters that feel so real. This book truly felt different, it had a maturity and emotional knowledge that touched us deeply. As for the written scenery of Kauai in Between Hello and Goodbye -without question- Kauai served as a character in its own right. We were there on the island with all the wonderful characters. We could smell the sea breeze, feel the sand between our toes and the sunrays warm our skin. We laughed, grieved, and celebrated.

‘Every caress dropped little flares into that untouched space, revealing something raw and naked. Vulnerable and soft and so delicate, it would break at the slightest mishandling. It was the part of me I kept protected from pain and – I realized – the most perfect joy.’

Between Hello and Goodbye is a story of new beginnings, healing, and love. It‘s about hardship, suffering, and grief. It’s about what comes after loss; human behaviour and self-reflection. It’s Emma Scott doing what Emma Scott does best; magnificent evocative storytelling. In a world that can ultimately swallow you whole into a swirling vortex of intense emotions and repercussions, your heart will fight on. You have the inner strength to fight on. Promise.

‘I wanted to love him and be loved by him. Not to become lost in Asher and give myself up to him, but to be more with him. More of myself than I yet knew. Because I had something to give, too.’

Faith Benson and Asher Mackey are two very different people who meet in a moment where the strong is vulnerable and the vulnerable is strong. We loved how the personal dynamics were manifested and the journey that came from the turmoil within, past experiences, and utter heart-breaking grief. It was such a compelling journey that shone a spotlight on the peace and serenity which can be found in even the darkest of places. Your memories will never leave your heart, but this can both be a curse and a blessing. You will have good and bad days, sometimes leaning heavily in one direction, but remember that this is okay. This is your right. This is love. The purest of loves.

“Till we meet again.”

PURCHASE BELOW
Ebook
Paperback

Come and say hi, at:

✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest