What do you think?
Rate this book
Carolina Classics #0.5
I'll Stand By You
Can five friends grow up without growing apart?
Summer, 1991: Working at a beachfront hotel in their sleepy southern coastal town gives life-long friends Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully the chance to spend as much time as possible together after college graduation and before real life begins.
One exceptionally busy and very long night—which includes a wedding, a lost dog, hatching sea turtles and a job offer—has each of them facing hopes and fears for the future. Wrestling with choices means loyalties are tested while alliances shift.
Don’t miss this combo sequel to Grey’s Boston Classics series and prequel to her new Carolina Classics series. It’ll take you from the neon, big-haired, shoulder-pads of the 1980’s into the boho, laidback 1990’s.
Summer, 1991: Working at a beachfront hotel in their sleepy southern coastal town gives life-long friends Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully the chance to spend as much time as possible together after college graduation and before real life begins.
One exceptionally busy and very long night—which includes a wedding, a lost dog, hatching sea turtles and a job offer—has each of them facing hopes and fears for the future. Wrestling with choices means loyalties are tested while alliances shift.
Don’t miss this combo sequel to Grey’s Boston Classics series and prequel to her new Carolina Classics series. It’ll take you from the neon, big-haired, shoulder-pads of the 1980’s into the boho, laidback 1990’s.
73 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2022
15 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Karen Grey
22 books617 followersKAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80's and 90's romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 9, 2024
5/2/2024 - Updated for Audio
Narration:
I adored getting to hear this all star cast featuring the respective narrators for each character from Grey’s other books: Maxine Mitchell as Vi, JF Harding as Sully, Amy McFadden as Dani, plus the tease of Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap who will be Whitney & Ford in the upcoming series finale, When I Come Around. Wonderful.
4/17/2022 - Karen Grey has written a fun and emotional novella that serves as a “bonus epilogue” for her Boston Classics series as well as a prequel launching her new Carolina Classics series.
While I think it will be especially fun for folks who know her Boston characters Henry, Bella, Jessica, Cal, Will, Ben, & Lucy - it’s written in such a way that you could discover Grey’s writing here.
I loved getting to meet early 20-somethings Violet, Dani, Ford, Sully, and Whitney. It’s an interesting look at how life is changing for this group who have been friends since Kindergarten. I liked how she was able to give them separate and defined personalities in such a short story.
Hijinks from both the Boston and Carolina crews as well deep love and friendship. Grey’s writing is always a great mix of emotions in fantastic storytelling and I love getting to experience all these stories.
4/9/2022 - ARC! I love that Grey is launching a new series set in the 90s!
Is it still old enough to be “historical romance”?
Narration:
I adored getting to hear this all star cast featuring the respective narrators for each character from Grey’s other books: Maxine Mitchell as Vi, JF Harding as Sully, Amy McFadden as Dani, plus the tease of Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap who will be Whitney & Ford in the upcoming series finale, When I Come Around. Wonderful.
4/17/2022 - Karen Grey has written a fun and emotional novella that serves as a “bonus epilogue” for her Boston Classics series as well as a prequel launching her new Carolina Classics series.
While I think it will be especially fun for folks who know her Boston characters Henry, Bella, Jessica, Cal, Will, Ben, & Lucy - it’s written in such a way that you could discover Grey’s writing here.
I loved getting to meet early 20-somethings Violet, Dani, Ford, Sully, and Whitney. It’s an interesting look at how life is changing for this group who have been friends since Kindergarten. I liked how she was able to give them separate and defined personalities in such a short story.
Hijinks from both the Boston and Carolina crews as well deep love and friendship. Grey’s writing is always a great mix of emotions in fantastic storytelling and I love getting to experience all these stories.
4/9/2022 - ARC! I love that Grey is launching a new series set in the 90s!
Is it still old enough to be “historical romance”?
May 29, 2022
I’ll Stand by You is an entertaining short novella featuring a group of five 20-somethings who are at crossroads trying to decide the direction each life is headed. It’s also a lovely wrap up of Grey’s Boston Classics series. Set in Coastal North Carolina, the book introduces five life-long friends: Violet, Dani, Ford, Sully, and Whitney. They all work at a resort where the gang from the Boston Classics series is in town for Henry and Bella’s wedding (book 4).
The setting of a wedding with a missing dog is the perfect opportunity to check in with the five friends. The author jumps from character to character, putting the reader inside five different POVs, allowing readers to really start to understand what’s going on with each. While this jumping around gives the novella a disorganized, jumbled feel, it is well-suited for the craziness of the situation.
The story is a wonderful way to kick off the new Carolina Classics series. Readers get just enough of each character, learning why each is conflicted and confused and not certain where their life is headed. While this is a good spot for new readers to jump into Ms. Grey’s world, it’s all the more special for fans of the Boston Classics series. And while the story is a fun adventure, I would caution new readers that this is not an example of her full-length romances, which are full of emotions and focus on two well-developed characters falling in love.
In the end, I’ll Stand by You is a fun romp on the beach. It’s the end of a wonderful series, and glimpse into something exciting to come.
Rating: B
Review copy provided by author.
The setting of a wedding with a missing dog is the perfect opportunity to check in with the five friends. The author jumps from character to character, putting the reader inside five different POVs, allowing readers to really start to understand what’s going on with each. While this jumping around gives the novella a disorganized, jumbled feel, it is well-suited for the craziness of the situation.
The story is a wonderful way to kick off the new Carolina Classics series. Readers get just enough of each character, learning why each is conflicted and confused and not certain where their life is headed. While this is a good spot for new readers to jump into Ms. Grey’s world, it’s all the more special for fans of the Boston Classics series. And while the story is a fun adventure, I would caution new readers that this is not an example of her full-length romances, which are full of emotions and focus on two well-developed characters falling in love.
In the end, I’ll Stand by You is a fun romp on the beach. It’s the end of a wonderful series, and glimpse into something exciting to come.
Rating: B
Review copy provided by author.
May 9, 2022
Sweet perfection! I'll Stand by You by Karen Grey was the perfect little novella to wrap up her Boston Classics Series, and introduce you to her new upcoming Carolina Classics Series. In this novella, we meet Violet, Dani, Sully, Ford, and Whitney, who all work at Wrightsfords Beach's most popular hotel. While working the late-night shift at the hotel during Henry and Bella's wedding reception, they realize their dog Ribsy is missing. The search for the missing dog ensues! I'm so glad we got a peek into Henry and Bella's wedding reception, along with glimpses of the entire BC crew! Each chapter is narrated by a different new character which sets up numerous storylines for Karen's upcoming series! The ending will leave you happy, and super excited for all that is yet to come!
May 8, 2022
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author and/or publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required.
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Characters: Violet, Dani, Whitney, Sully, and Ford
POV: multi-character, limited
I'll Stand By You is a nostalgic short story of five friends working at a hotel for one last summer after graduation that will lead them all on different paths. This prequel is an excellent crossover because it gives a good taste of what's to time to these new set of characters!
Also, the Boston Classic series characters lend their star power and storylines by slowly intersecting with Henry Smith's (Boston Classics #4) family dog named Ribsy.
I enjoyed the mystery and how the MCs found clues to finding Ribsy and, simultaneously, tackle big decisions of what will be the following "chapters" after their summer job at the hotel.
I love the multi-character POV with the exciting and intriguing premises for the next book series. Each POV gives excellent insight into each character's issues and, at the same time, keeps many details hidden for the upcoming books. The sharing and character development are just suitable for a novella.
This book, set in the 1990s, brings back many fun memories for generation readers that is relatable, which all would appreciate as these moments are a great teaser to start the series!
Overall, I'll Stand By You is a quick and easy read that gives the right amount of build-up to have readers excited for the upcoming new series. It is about growing up (coming of age), friendship, trust, and hope. With these new and complex characters coming with so much "baggage" and insecurities, the next series will indeed have a lot of "explaining" and "unraveling" soon!
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Characters: Violet, Dani, Whitney, Sully, and Ford
POV: multi-character, limited
I'll Stand By You is a nostalgic short story of five friends working at a hotel for one last summer after graduation that will lead them all on different paths. This prequel is an excellent crossover because it gives a good taste of what's to time to these new set of characters!
Also, the Boston Classic series characters lend their star power and storylines by slowly intersecting with Henry Smith's (Boston Classics #4) family dog named Ribsy.
I enjoyed the mystery and how the MCs found clues to finding Ribsy and, simultaneously, tackle big decisions of what will be the following "chapters" after their summer job at the hotel.
I love the multi-character POV with the exciting and intriguing premises for the next book series. Each POV gives excellent insight into each character's issues and, at the same time, keeps many details hidden for the upcoming books. The sharing and character development are just suitable for a novella.
This book, set in the 1990s, brings back many fun memories for generation readers that is relatable, which all would appreciate as these moments are a great teaser to start the series!
Overall, I'll Stand By You is a quick and easy read that gives the right amount of build-up to have readers excited for the upcoming new series. It is about growing up (coming of age), friendship, trust, and hope. With these new and complex characters coming with so much "baggage" and insecurities, the next series will indeed have a lot of "explaining" and "unraveling" soon!
July 1, 2025
3.5 Stars
This was fun, but I didn't realize it also was a bridge between another series and this one. Which is fine. My biggest issue was hopping heads so often and it was duet/full cast so it was a little confusing switching so much and also it being the introduction. It was different from the typical prequel novella though, so color me intrigued!
This was fun, but I didn't realize it also was a bridge between another series and this one. Which is fine. My biggest issue was hopping heads so often and it was duet/full cast so it was a little confusing switching so much and also it being the introduction. It was different from the typical prequel novella though, so color me intrigued!
February 19, 2025
Solid little novella, good way for me to get an introduction to the characters. just a short little hour long audiobook so it was nice and quick!
obsessed with the vibes and atmosphere!! Late 80's- early 90's is one of my favorite eras to read about!
obsessed with the vibes and atmosphere!! Late 80's- early 90's is one of my favorite eras to read about!
April 14, 2022
Five friends since childhood. All very different but the most important people in their lives. Violet, Dani, Fores, Sully and Whitney’s life are going to change in a nedar future but they make a promise. They will be there for each other no matter what, even if they thousand miles separate them. A new series from Karen Grey with and spin off from the Boston series. Looking forward to follow these five friends’s adventures
July 25, 2025
I’ll Stand By You is a short and sweet story about five friends spending a summer together on the beach in 1991. At just 73 pages, it’s a quick read that captures small, meaningful adventures and the bonds of friendship.
May 13, 2024
I loved I’ll Stand by You when I read it. The perfect sequel to a wonderfully satisfying series and an intriguing prequel for more amazing Karen Grey stories. But the audiobook version???? I don’t think there is room for all the “wows” I want to include here. A super-perfect cast of narrators and background sounds like Ribsy barking and the waves crashing on the shore – yes, another wow. Seriously, Ryan Lee Dunlap is a long-time favorite narrator, always draws me right in to the character, and this time when he amps up that sexy accent of his just a bit more, he is Ford. J. F. Harding is another favorite and that angsty voice of his makes Sully and the emotions he tries to hold in come alive. Amy McFadden, Maxine Mitchell and Amanda Stribling as Dani, Violet and Whitney round out the excellent cast. Listening gives you insight into this new group of friends you are guaranteed to love. The narration is well-paced and clear, with all the right emotions at just the right times. Author Grey’s books are just meant to be listened to, an experience you won’t forget.
As for the story itself, I admit I was a little bummed when I realized the Boston Classics series was ending. Bummed for about two paragraphs into I’ll Stand by You and then I realized we weren’t losing Kate and Will, Ben and Lucy, Alice and Steve, Jessica and Cal, Henry and Bella but instead gaining Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully and another decade. I am so excited to read the new Carolina Classics series and to immerse myself in what I know will be five more fascinating characters, great locations, and another trip back down memory lane. This novella is the perfect bridge from one decade to the next and from one group of front and center pals to the next. Just when I was thinking maybe I needed to do another run through Boston (which I do periodically anyway) up pops Handsome Handsome Handsome Groom Henry. I was happy to see him and the gang, including Ribsy, but I was also already fully engaged with the graduates, wanting to learn where their lives, dreams and adventures will take them and what unexpected events and people will jump in to disrupt their plans.
Author Karen Grey is so talented and such a joy to read. Her characters are so real: they have faults, make mistakes and bad choices, suck at relationships sometime, but they also have giant hearts, sensitive souls and fierce loyalty - and they all feel so real. The laugh-out-loud funny situations they get themselves into feel real, too. As do the tender, sweet moments. And those sexy, spicy, scorchy times? They might have you fanning your face (or wishing you were there!) but they feel real, too. And the trip to the past? I relived my own memories of those times, that hair, those clothes, just the way people were. Grey captures all of that flawlessly. You aren’t just reading about it. You are there. You might cringe a bit, but you’ve time-travelled.
I’ll Stand by You gives us just enough backstory for each character to understand that while college held them together life is going to pull them apart a little, or maybe a lot. They have different personalities, of course, but also different opportunities and different things holding them back. I was thrilled to be at the beginning of their all-grown-up adult lives and while a little sad about it, equally thrilled to be at the truly satisfying closure of the Boston Classics storyline.
Thanks to author Karen Grey for all the wonderful stories to date and for the promise (guarantee, really) of many more to come. If you haven’t already figured it out, I can’t say enough good things about this author and everything she writes. Dive into the Carolina Classics. You’ll be glad you did. Thanks to Home Cooked Books and the author for an Advanced Listening Copy of I’ll Stand by You. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
As for the story itself, I admit I was a little bummed when I realized the Boston Classics series was ending. Bummed for about two paragraphs into I’ll Stand by You and then I realized we weren’t losing Kate and Will, Ben and Lucy, Alice and Steve, Jessica and Cal, Henry and Bella but instead gaining Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully and another decade. I am so excited to read the new Carolina Classics series and to immerse myself in what I know will be five more fascinating characters, great locations, and another trip back down memory lane. This novella is the perfect bridge from one decade to the next and from one group of front and center pals to the next. Just when I was thinking maybe I needed to do another run through Boston (which I do periodically anyway) up pops Handsome Handsome Handsome Groom Henry. I was happy to see him and the gang, including Ribsy, but I was also already fully engaged with the graduates, wanting to learn where their lives, dreams and adventures will take them and what unexpected events and people will jump in to disrupt their plans.
Author Karen Grey is so talented and such a joy to read. Her characters are so real: they have faults, make mistakes and bad choices, suck at relationships sometime, but they also have giant hearts, sensitive souls and fierce loyalty - and they all feel so real. The laugh-out-loud funny situations they get themselves into feel real, too. As do the tender, sweet moments. And those sexy, spicy, scorchy times? They might have you fanning your face (or wishing you were there!) but they feel real, too. And the trip to the past? I relived my own memories of those times, that hair, those clothes, just the way people were. Grey captures all of that flawlessly. You aren’t just reading about it. You are there. You might cringe a bit, but you’ve time-travelled.
I’ll Stand by You gives us just enough backstory for each character to understand that while college held them together life is going to pull them apart a little, or maybe a lot. They have different personalities, of course, but also different opportunities and different things holding them back. I was thrilled to be at the beginning of their all-grown-up adult lives and while a little sad about it, equally thrilled to be at the truly satisfying closure of the Boston Classics storyline.
Thanks to author Karen Grey for all the wonderful stories to date and for the promise (guarantee, really) of many more to come. If you haven’t already figured it out, I can’t say enough good things about this author and everything she writes. Dive into the Carolina Classics. You’ll be glad you did. Thanks to Home Cooked Books and the author for an Advanced Listening Copy of I’ll Stand by You. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
May 14, 2024
ARC/Audio Review
I love this novella! It is a fantastic transition story from Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series into her upcoming Carolina Classics series. I’ll Stand By You introduces a new group of friends, each of whom will have their own HEA story in the new series. Violet, Whitney, Ford, Sully and Danielle are childhood friends reuniting for one last summer of adventures and workplace shenanigans.
This novella is a farewell of sorts to the Boston Classics family and ushers in the Carolina Classic crew. This was a bittersweet read for me. Saying goodbye to Will, Cal, Jess, Bella, Ben, Lucy, Lilah and Ribsy tugs on the heartstrings. The Carolina Classics crew is wonderfully dynamic, genuine, and intriguing. I can’t wait to read their stories. Karen intertwined the groups beautifully and gave each character a special moment to shine. I’ll Stand By You is witty, fun, and so sweet.
The I’ll Stand By You audiobook was an incredible way to experience this quick and fun novella again. The full cast narration was performed by top-tier vocal artists including: Maxine Mitchell, J.F. Harding, Amy McFadden, Ryan Lee Dunlap, and Amanda Stribling. I loved listening to Violet, Sully, Dani, Ford and Whitney’s zany adventure in this celebration of friendship. The chapter breaks perfectly set the scenes. If you haven’t listened to Karen’s Carolina Classics series, grab this audio and get ready to marathon the entire series!
I love this novella! It is a fantastic transition story from Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series into her upcoming Carolina Classics series. I’ll Stand By You introduces a new group of friends, each of whom will have their own HEA story in the new series. Violet, Whitney, Ford, Sully and Danielle are childhood friends reuniting for one last summer of adventures and workplace shenanigans.
This novella is a farewell of sorts to the Boston Classics family and ushers in the Carolina Classic crew. This was a bittersweet read for me. Saying goodbye to Will, Cal, Jess, Bella, Ben, Lucy, Lilah and Ribsy tugs on the heartstrings. The Carolina Classics crew is wonderfully dynamic, genuine, and intriguing. I can’t wait to read their stories. Karen intertwined the groups beautifully and gave each character a special moment to shine. I’ll Stand By You is witty, fun, and so sweet.
The I’ll Stand By You audiobook was an incredible way to experience this quick and fun novella again. The full cast narration was performed by top-tier vocal artists including: Maxine Mitchell, J.F. Harding, Amy McFadden, Ryan Lee Dunlap, and Amanda Stribling. I loved listening to Violet, Sully, Dani, Ford and Whitney’s zany adventure in this celebration of friendship. The chapter breaks perfectly set the scenes. If you haven’t listened to Karen’s Carolina Classics series, grab this audio and get ready to marathon the entire series!
May 9, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
Sooooooo, IYKYK, obviously I went back to the beginning with the Boston Classics series as soon as the ALC for this title was announced! WHY AM I LIKE THIS? No, seriously, why? *shakes head* LOL I had to stop and listen to Stand by You before I finished all 40ish hours of Boston Classic goodness, but I’ll be returning ASAP! Thanks to Everand, not only was this series possible but I will also be able to jump straight into the Carolina Classics series!! #winning 🎧🎧
I’ll Stand by You was a fun party in my ears! It is exactly what it says it is, a bridge between the two series, Boston Classics and Carolina Classics. I’m glad that I got thru most of the stories in the Boston series before I had to stop and listen to this ”extended epilogue” because it made the story that much more endearing to me. I teared up a few times and laughed a few but mostly I just had a huge smile on my face!
Obviously, the performance by Maxine Mitchell, JF Harding, Amy McFadden, Ryan Lee Dunlap & Amanda Stribling was great or I wouldn’t have enjoyed this quickie as much as I did! *huge smile* Thank you Home Cooked Books for providing me with this ALC and intro to what is a great author and some narrators I hadn’t heard in a while! #winning
Sooooooo, IYKYK, obviously I went back to the beginning with the Boston Classics series as soon as the ALC for this title was announced! WHY AM I LIKE THIS? No, seriously, why? *shakes head* LOL I had to stop and listen to Stand by You before I finished all 40ish hours of Boston Classic goodness, but I’ll be returning ASAP! Thanks to Everand, not only was this series possible but I will also be able to jump straight into the Carolina Classics series!! #winning 🎧🎧
I’ll Stand by You was a fun party in my ears! It is exactly what it says it is, a bridge between the two series, Boston Classics and Carolina Classics. I’m glad that I got thru most of the stories in the Boston series before I had to stop and listen to this ”extended epilogue” because it made the story that much more endearing to me. I teared up a few times and laughed a few but mostly I just had a huge smile on my face!
Obviously, the performance by Maxine Mitchell, JF Harding, Amy McFadden, Ryan Lee Dunlap & Amanda Stribling was great or I wouldn’t have enjoyed this quickie as much as I did! *huge smile* Thank you Home Cooked Books for providing me with this ALC and intro to what is a great author and some narrators I hadn’t heard in a while! #winning
May 25, 2022
Great introduction to the new Carolina Classics series!
I enjoyed this intro to the new series. Here, we meet our characters Violet, Whitney, Danielle, Sully, & Ford, who will have their own stories within the series. This novella gives us a little glimpse into the complexities of friends who are about to go fully into adulthood and how that will affect their lifelong friendships. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the books in the new series!
I also loved seeing a nice, cute wrap up of the Boston Classics series.
I was provided a free advanced reading copy of this book. However, all opinions shared are my honest thoughts about this book.
I enjoyed this intro to the new series. Here, we meet our characters Violet, Whitney, Danielle, Sully, & Ford, who will have their own stories within the series. This novella gives us a little glimpse into the complexities of friends who are about to go fully into adulthood and how that will affect their lifelong friendships. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the books in the new series!
I also loved seeing a nice, cute wrap up of the Boston Classics series.
I was provided a free advanced reading copy of this book. However, all opinions shared are my honest thoughts about this book.
May 12, 2022
ARC Review📚
Brilliant!
I’ll Stand By You was a fun, and witty introduction to Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully! Five lifelong friends fresh out of college and working one final summer together at a beachfront hotel before embarking on the next chapter in their lives.
This was a brilliantly written novella. It not only gives us a chance to get to know the five characters that will each have their own romance in Karen's upcoming Carolina Classics series, but we also get a bonus Epilogue of sorts to bid a farewell to some of our favorite characters from the Boston Classics series! I enjoyed each of the new characters. Their friendship is everything I loved how close they were and that the bond of lifelong friends was really highlighted while still giving each individual character a moment for us to get to know separately and set up storylines. Exactly how a prequel should be done!
Overall I enjoyed this read, It hit me in all the feels, remembering a time I was also stepping into a new chapter. The anxious anticipation of starting a new adventure but the bittersweet sadness that comes with changes. The author did an outstanding job. I’m really looking forward to the Carolina Classics series and the nostalgia of the 90s!!! Bring on the Rachel haircut, the grungy brown lipsticks, Dr Martin’s and flannels!
Brilliant!
I’ll Stand By You was a fun, and witty introduction to Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully! Five lifelong friends fresh out of college and working one final summer together at a beachfront hotel before embarking on the next chapter in their lives.
This was a brilliantly written novella. It not only gives us a chance to get to know the five characters that will each have their own romance in Karen's upcoming Carolina Classics series, but we also get a bonus Epilogue of sorts to bid a farewell to some of our favorite characters from the Boston Classics series! I enjoyed each of the new characters. Their friendship is everything I loved how close they were and that the bond of lifelong friends was really highlighted while still giving each individual character a moment for us to get to know separately and set up storylines. Exactly how a prequel should be done!
Overall I enjoyed this read, It hit me in all the feels, remembering a time I was also stepping into a new chapter. The anxious anticipation of starting a new adventure but the bittersweet sadness that comes with changes. The author did an outstanding job. I’m really looking forward to the Carolina Classics series and the nostalgia of the 90s!!! Bring on the Rachel haircut, the grungy brown lipsticks, Dr Martin’s and flannels!
May 20, 2022
I'll stand by you is a fun introduction to new characters and Carolina beaches. It's a quick read, but it still feels like a complete story about an eventful night before some big changes for a group of friends. I liked that the story was told through different perspectives.
I'll Stand By You is a complete stand alone, as are the books in the Boston Classics series. The Boston Classics characters make short appearances in this book. While you don’t have to have read/listen to them to enjoy this one, and you don't have to read them in any particular order, I like to start at the beginning so I can appreciate the characters more as they make appearances in a later books. Each book is distinct, and the characters have unique challenges, so there’s no reason not to listen to the whole Boston Classics series while you wait for the rest of the Carolina books. I highly recommend listening to them as audiobooks as the audio performances really add to the stories.
I received a copy of this book at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
I'll Stand By You is a complete stand alone, as are the books in the Boston Classics series. The Boston Classics characters make short appearances in this book. While you don’t have to have read/listen to them to enjoy this one, and you don't have to read them in any particular order, I like to start at the beginning so I can appreciate the characters more as they make appearances in a later books. Each book is distinct, and the characters have unique challenges, so there’s no reason not to listen to the whole Boston Classics series while you wait for the rest of the Carolina books. I highly recommend listening to them as audiobooks as the audio performances really add to the stories.
I received a copy of this book at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
June 8, 2022
This fun, light novella is told from the points of view of five friends, having a last hurrah working together for the summer before real life and adulthood takes over. Taking place over the course of a single night, it packs a lot in: not only introducing five characters who will get their own stories in an upcoming series, but also following up on the four couples from Karen Grey's previous Boston Classics series. Five different voices in so confined a space could be chaotic, but it does work: Violet, Ford, Sully, Whitney and Danielle all come across as defined individuals, with hopes, fears, and plans for the future. It's definitely whetted my appetite for whatever comes next.
April 26, 2022
“You four people are more important to me than anyone else in the world. I want you all in my life forever.”
I’ll Stand By You introduces us to a new group of friends in the Carolina Classics series while wrapping up the stories for gang from the Boston Classics series. I was so glad to get a final glimpse of the Boston Classics gang and to see what happens at Henry and Bella’s wedding. This short novella seamlessly transitions between the two groups of friends and I was instantly hooked.
“No matter how far away you live. If you have to leave, I’ll be here for you. This place will be here. Your friends will be here.”
Violet, Dani, Sully Ford, and Whitney are young and trying to figure out direction life is taking them. They decide to work one last summer together at a hotel as a way to spend time together. After an eventful night at Henry and Bella’s wedding, they vow that they will remain friends, no matter what even though they may not see each other everyday. I’m excited to see what is going to happen next for these five friends and what adventures life will take them on.
I’ll Stand By You introduces us to a new group of friends in the Carolina Classics series while wrapping up the stories for gang from the Boston Classics series. I was so glad to get a final glimpse of the Boston Classics gang and to see what happens at Henry and Bella’s wedding. This short novella seamlessly transitions between the two groups of friends and I was instantly hooked.
“No matter how far away you live. If you have to leave, I’ll be here for you. This place will be here. Your friends will be here.”
Violet, Dani, Sully Ford, and Whitney are young and trying to figure out direction life is taking them. They decide to work one last summer together at a hotel as a way to spend time together. After an eventful night at Henry and Bella’s wedding, they vow that they will remain friends, no matter what even though they may not see each other everyday. I’m excited to see what is going to happen next for these five friends and what adventures life will take them on.
June 29, 2022
A fun and clever way to end an existing series and introduce a new series serving as both an epilogue for the Boston Classics series and prequel to the new Carolina Classics series.
We get a glimpse into Henry and Bella’s wedding reception which includes the Boston Classic series characters. We are also introduced to the Carolina Classics characters as the five lifelong friends spend the summer working together at a beach hotel as they prepare for life after college.
This is a quick read, again it’s an introduction to the authors new series. Well written, interesting characters, and the two series are wonderfully woven together.
We get a glimpse into Henry and Bella’s wedding reception which includes the Boston Classic series characters. We are also introduced to the Carolina Classics characters as the five lifelong friends spend the summer working together at a beach hotel as they prepare for life after college.
This is a quick read, again it’s an introduction to the authors new series. Well written, interesting characters, and the two series are wonderfully woven together.
May 17, 2022
I love a good novella and “I’ll Stand By You” was such a great read. It gives you the closure for the “Boston Classics” series that readers crave. And we get to meet all the new characters for the upcoming “Carolina Classics” series. We go from the 80s to my favorite era, the 90s.
We get introduced to five new characters and I can’t wait to read their stories. Each chapter in the novella we get a little piece of them and I’m excited to read what happens next. This was a great way to wrap things up with one series and set the scene for the next series.
We get introduced to five new characters and I can’t wait to read their stories. Each chapter in the novella we get a little piece of them and I’m excited to read what happens next. This was a great way to wrap things up with one series and set the scene for the next series.
Read
June 1, 2022Please note that this novella is NOT a romance! It's about the friendships between the characters of my Boston Classics series and my Carolina Classics series. You get a catchup with the BC's and an introduction to the CC's.
And the turtle hatchling scene I've always wanted to write...
And the turtle hatchling scene I've always wanted to write...
May 15, 2022
This was a cute novella to help us meet the new characters from the new series. I can’t wait to read the stories of these five best friends and see where the world takes them.
It was great to see the characters from the Boston series as well.
It was great to see the characters from the Boston series as well.
June 15, 2022
'I'll Stand By You' was my first ever Karen Grey book and I feel like I've been missing out! This book apparently serves as a bonus epilogue to her Boston Classics series, which I now just NEED to read, as well as a prequel to her new Carolina Classics series, which I also now just NEED to read. A sign of a great author when you feel that you immediately need to read more of their books! This was a witty, fun and absorbing book that made you feel as if you were among friends. It won't disappoint!
April 24, 2022
This was a fun, short novella that packed a lot into a small page count. It was both an epilogue for the author's Boston Classics series, as well as a prequel for her new Carolina Classics series kicking off soon. The wrap-up of the previous series was done in a few quick vignettes, so if you haven't read it, you won't be lost, but if you have read it, you'll love the glimpses Henry, Bella, Cal, Jess, etc.
Meanwhile, over the course of one night, the novella introduces a whole new cast of five childhood friends who've just graduated from college and are spending one last summer working at the main hotel in their NC beach town. They know they will inevitably be pulled apart as they start their adult lives and careers, but don't want to lose each other. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Meanwhile, over the course of one night, the novella introduces a whole new cast of five childhood friends who've just graduated from college and are spending one last summer working at the main hotel in their NC beach town. They know they will inevitably be pulled apart as they start their adult lives and careers, but don't want to lose each other. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 11, 2022
What a great look at friendship and what happens when it's time to start growing up. If only we were all so lucky to have these kinds of friendships. The book does a great job of laying out the framework for what should be a fun, smart and exciting new series. I can't wait to get started.
I have voluntarily left this review.
I have voluntarily left this review.
April 18, 2024
Update… 2 years later after being able to finally listen to the audio! April 14, 2024:
I’m so happy Karen has now gathered all the incredible narrators together that she’s used for the rest of this amazing series and had them voice their characters for the prequel novella.
Great to revisit the short story that began the new world and wrapped up the old, after learning everyone’s full stories and getting to know Wallington and falling so hard for the characters in this prequel. These narrators are a mix of new and old faves, and they truly bring everything to life. I really loved revisiting the beginning - it makes me want to re-listen to the whole series again, right away, and have Karen’s incredible words with these incredible narrators voices fill my heart and mind up with joy. I just love it!
Narrated by Maxine Mitchell, Amy McFadden, Amanda Stribling, JF Harding, and Ryan Lee Dunlap - all did such a wonderful job! Thank you to Karen and Home Cooked Books PR for the advance listen copy.
Original 2022 review:
I adore Karen Grey - all of the books of hers I've read, every book of hers I've listened to her as narrator (under her narrator name, Karen White), and as a person... proud to think of her as a friend.
I'll Stand By You is the first in a brand new series, Carolina Classics - which actually brings in several characters from her Boston Classics series (Jess & Cal, Lucy & Ben) as they attend one of the friends weddings (from the last book in the Boston series, Bella and Henry). Bella and Henry are getting married at a resort in the Carolinas, which happens to be a resort where a group of friends since high school are together again, working for the summer. This group thinks that nothing can tear them apart... except as we get the story of the evening - the wedding night when Bella and Henry's dog Ribsy goes missing and they all work together (the Boson and the Carolina crews) - from each of the friend's perspectives, we learn what each is thinking about how they believe their own future is going to unfold, and how tight-knit, or not, they feel everyone is, and where everyone will be going at the end of the summer and working together at the resort.
(Having read something else (a sneak-peak) in the series from Karen, I had to actually go back to consult it and understand what I was reading, because I got timelines confused - hard to keep it all straight when I had future plots swirling in my brain, but trust me - you're all really going to adore this series so, so much! Many great things are coming!)
Karen does a brilliant job of weaving so many character storylines together, and my favourite part of this one was having the previous series brought in and their storyline closed out, while the new crew was brought in and introduced, with so many plot points for each character given a sneak-peak and just a taste for their upcoming books. I cannot wait for the full series and learning more about each of these brilliant new characters, and a tiny taste of something else that was to come as well. I also love how you can tell that she is a narrator first, and the book is written with that in mind, how the words on the page will translate through the microphone in performance. I can't wait to listen to this one, and find out who she's picked to narrate it!
Thank you again, Karen and Home Cooked Books, for the advance review copy - as always, I appreciate it so much! This is my honest feedback.
I’m so happy Karen has now gathered all the incredible narrators together that she’s used for the rest of this amazing series and had them voice their characters for the prequel novella.
Great to revisit the short story that began the new world and wrapped up the old, after learning everyone’s full stories and getting to know Wallington and falling so hard for the characters in this prequel. These narrators are a mix of new and old faves, and they truly bring everything to life. I really loved revisiting the beginning - it makes me want to re-listen to the whole series again, right away, and have Karen’s incredible words with these incredible narrators voices fill my heart and mind up with joy. I just love it!
Narrated by Maxine Mitchell, Amy McFadden, Amanda Stribling, JF Harding, and Ryan Lee Dunlap - all did such a wonderful job! Thank you to Karen and Home Cooked Books PR for the advance listen copy.
Original 2022 review:
I adore Karen Grey - all of the books of hers I've read, every book of hers I've listened to her as narrator (under her narrator name, Karen White), and as a person... proud to think of her as a friend.
I'll Stand By You is the first in a brand new series, Carolina Classics - which actually brings in several characters from her Boston Classics series (Jess & Cal, Lucy & Ben) as they attend one of the friends weddings (from the last book in the Boston series, Bella and Henry). Bella and Henry are getting married at a resort in the Carolinas, which happens to be a resort where a group of friends since high school are together again, working for the summer. This group thinks that nothing can tear them apart... except as we get the story of the evening - the wedding night when Bella and Henry's dog Ribsy goes missing and they all work together (the Boson and the Carolina crews) - from each of the friend's perspectives, we learn what each is thinking about how they believe their own future is going to unfold, and how tight-knit, or not, they feel everyone is, and where everyone will be going at the end of the summer and working together at the resort.
(Having read something else (a sneak-peak) in the series from Karen, I had to actually go back to consult it and understand what I was reading, because I got timelines confused - hard to keep it all straight when I had future plots swirling in my brain, but trust me - you're all really going to adore this series so, so much! Many great things are coming!)
Karen does a brilliant job of weaving so many character storylines together, and my favourite part of this one was having the previous series brought in and their storyline closed out, while the new crew was brought in and introduced, with so many plot points for each character given a sneak-peak and just a taste for their upcoming books. I cannot wait for the full series and learning more about each of these brilliant new characters, and a tiny taste of something else that was to come as well. I also love how you can tell that she is a narrator first, and the book is written with that in mind, how the words on the page will translate through the microphone in performance. I can't wait to listen to this one, and find out who she's picked to narrate it!
Thank you again, Karen and Home Cooked Books, for the advance review copy - as always, I appreciate it so much! This is my honest feedback.
July 7, 2022
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
I enjoyed this combo of a epilogue to the Boston Classics series and a prequel to the Carolina Classics series. With the pages being short, and two sets of characters, it was a lot of people, so they didn't get quite as much development as a regular book. I'll Stand By You did give us a base for the new series with small mentions from the previous one. I don't think you need to have read either series but you will understand more if you do.
The chapters are seen from the point of view of five friends: Voilet, Danielle, Whitney, Sully and Ford. Hard to believe but a novella with only 73 pages has 13 chapters! Violet has the most chapters and I felt most connected to her. The five friends have known each other since kindergarten. When they were 14, they worked summers at the Rumrunner Hotel, now they are finishing college and they are all back in the hometown working here for the summer.
This weekend is a wedding at the hotel. The wedding couple are Henry and Bella who we met in Child of Mine. Many of their friends are in town for the wedding which is in Henry's hometown. But they are just a side layer to the story. Through their jobs, we see the five friends and learn about them, along with their hopes and dreams.
There is a lot packed in this short story. I enjoyed it and appreciated the history and brief foundation for these five friends.
Review copy was received from Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 hearts
I enjoyed this combo of a epilogue to the Boston Classics series and a prequel to the Carolina Classics series. With the pages being short, and two sets of characters, it was a lot of people, so they didn't get quite as much development as a regular book. I'll Stand By You did give us a base for the new series with small mentions from the previous one. I don't think you need to have read either series but you will understand more if you do.
The chapters are seen from the point of view of five friends: Voilet, Danielle, Whitney, Sully and Ford. Hard to believe but a novella with only 73 pages has 13 chapters! Violet has the most chapters and I felt most connected to her. The five friends have known each other since kindergarten. When they were 14, they worked summers at the Rumrunner Hotel, now they are finishing college and they are all back in the hometown working here for the summer.
This weekend is a wedding at the hotel. The wedding couple are Henry and Bella who we met in Child of Mine. Many of their friends are in town for the wedding which is in Henry's hometown. But they are just a side layer to the story. Through their jobs, we see the five friends and learn about them, along with their hopes and dreams.
There is a lot packed in this short story. I enjoyed it and appreciated the history and brief foundation for these five friends.
April 22, 2024
There isn’t much to say as it was quite short, and it mostly introduced the five characters who’ll be at the center of the author’s new series.
So it was like a long prologue. Seeing the characters in action helped with defining who they were and what their motivations and aspirations were. Solo, by two, or with other characters, we learn a lot about them while they search their workplace for a runaway dog.
It’s also a long epilogue for the author’s previous series. I loved that we were able to say goodbye to all those favorite characters that way. And seeing them through the eyes of new characters who don’t know them was cute and funny.
There wasn’t any romance here, though a love triangle is suggested between three of the friends. It’s mostly an excuse to add some tension, as it is said explicitly that nothing will ever happen between them. It also brings some nostalgia, the sadness of knowing that it’s the last time they’re all together and that things will soon change for all of them. Well done.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina classics prequel (and Boston classics sequel/epilogue)
- Hashtags: #novella #90’s #nostalgia
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: no couple
- Hotness: 0/5
- Romance: 0/5
- + it was genius to conclude one series while introducing a new one
- – barely a hint at a possible romance that’s being crushed before the end of the novella
So it was like a long prologue. Seeing the characters in action helped with defining who they were and what their motivations and aspirations were. Solo, by two, or with other characters, we learn a lot about them while they search their workplace for a runaway dog.
It’s also a long epilogue for the author’s previous series. I loved that we were able to say goodbye to all those favorite characters that way. And seeing them through the eyes of new characters who don’t know them was cute and funny.
There wasn’t any romance here, though a love triangle is suggested between three of the friends. It’s mostly an excuse to add some tension, as it is said explicitly that nothing will ever happen between them. It also brings some nostalgia, the sadness of knowing that it’s the last time they’re all together and that things will soon change for all of them. Well done.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina classics prequel (and Boston classics sequel/epilogue)
- Hashtags: #novella #90’s #nostalgia
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: no couple
- Hotness: 0/5
- Romance: 0/5
- + it was genius to conclude one series while introducing a new one
- – barely a hint at a possible romance that’s being crushed before the end of the novella
April 17, 2024
Updated 4/17/24 audiobook - Ryan Lee Dunlap, JF Harding, Amy McFadden, Maxine Mitchell, and Amanda Stribling deliver an amazing performance. They gave the characters perfect voice, personality and emotion. I enjoy audiobooks because the narrators bring the authors words to life and give readers/listeners a whole new experience.
I loved the ocean/dog barking between chapters.
I’ll Stand By You is a quick, fun and heartwarming story about friends who are spending their last summer working together before heading off to new adventures.
What started out as a chaotic evening turned into an unexpected and entertaining adventure that the crew will never forget.
I enjoyed how Karen had each character take on a chapter to tell the story from their point of view.
This was a great wrap up to her characters from other books and a great introduction to the characters in the new series. These characters are going to take us on a wild ride!
I loved the ocean/dog barking between chapters.
I’ll Stand By You is a quick, fun and heartwarming story about friends who are spending their last summer working together before heading off to new adventures.
What started out as a chaotic evening turned into an unexpected and entertaining adventure that the crew will never forget.
I enjoyed how Karen had each character take on a chapter to tell the story from their point of view.
This was a great wrap up to her characters from other books and a great introduction to the characters in the new series. These characters are going to take us on a wild ride!
July 7, 2022
"I'll Stand By You" by Karen Grey serves as a bonus epilogue to the Boston Classics series as well as a prequel to the upcoming Carolina Classics series. In 1991 North Carolina, recent college graduates and lifelong friends Violet, Whitney, Sully, Ford, and Danielle decide to spend one last summer working together at the Rumrunner Hotel on Wrightsford Beach before starting their "real" jobs and lives in the fall. I was intrigued by each of the characters and their relationships and can't wait to learn more about them in upcoming books of the series.
I recommend this fun, sweet story for all fans of beach romance, found families, and adorable baby turtles. ;-)
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I recommend this fun, sweet story for all fans of beach romance, found families, and adorable baby turtles. ;-)
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 13, 2024
I'll Stand By You
Carolina Classics, #0.5
by Karen Grey
Narrated by Ryan Lee Dunlap, JF Harding, Amy McFadden, Maxine Mitchell, Amanda Stribling
Now this is a fun listen! I have had the pleasure of listening to both the Boston Classics and Carolina Classics series and this is the perfect segway for the two. Nothings brings people together like a wedding. Bringing the four couples from the Boston Classics series together for a wedding in North Carolina sounds like a plan, right? But bring the dog too? When the dog goes missing, the five best friends working at the resort, Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully all come to help out finding the pup, and also realize just how deep their friendships go. The last summer they will be together doesn't mean their friendships will end, does it? Now we get to see just what happens with these fantastic characters. Oh, and the sea turtles...how much fun was that? Give this a listen, you are sure to love it!
With a full cast narration, some bringing back their characters from the previous books and others creating new sounds, the story is packed with all the feels. I love this collaboration, each voice perfect for their person, an ensemble cast that is happiness to my ears.
Carolina Classics, #0.5
by Karen Grey
Narrated by Ryan Lee Dunlap, JF Harding, Amy McFadden, Maxine Mitchell, Amanda Stribling
Now this is a fun listen! I have had the pleasure of listening to both the Boston Classics and Carolina Classics series and this is the perfect segway for the two. Nothings brings people together like a wedding. Bringing the four couples from the Boston Classics series together for a wedding in North Carolina sounds like a plan, right? But bring the dog too? When the dog goes missing, the five best friends working at the resort, Violet, Danielle, Whitney, Ford and Sully all come to help out finding the pup, and also realize just how deep their friendships go. The last summer they will be together doesn't mean their friendships will end, does it? Now we get to see just what happens with these fantastic characters. Oh, and the sea turtles...how much fun was that? Give this a listen, you are sure to love it!
With a full cast narration, some bringing back their characters from the previous books and others creating new sounds, the story is packed with all the feels. I love this collaboration, each voice perfect for their person, an ensemble cast that is happiness to my ears.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews