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Hello Stranger
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Romance (2023)Love isn’t blind, it’s just a little blurry.
Sadie Montgomery never saw what was coming . . . Literally! One minute she’s celebrating the biggest achievement of her life—placing as a finalist in the North American Portrait Society competition—the next, she’s lying in a hospital bed diagnosed with a “probably temporary” condition known as face blindness. She can see, but every face she looks at is now a jumbled puzzle of disconnected features. Imagine trying to read a book upside down and in another language. This is Sadie’s new reality with every face she sees.
But, as she struggles to cope, hang on to her artistic dream, work through major family issues, and take care of her beloved dog, Peanut, she falls into—love? Lust? A temporary obsession to distract from the real problems in her life?—with not one man but two very different ones. The timing couldn’t be worse.
If only her life were a little more in focus, Sadie might be able to find her way. But perceiving anything clearly right now seems impossible. Even though there are things we can only find when we aren’t looking. And there are people who show up when we least expect them. And there are always, always other ways of seeing.
Sadie Montgomery never saw what was coming . . . Literally! One minute she’s celebrating the biggest achievement of her life—placing as a finalist in the North American Portrait Society competition—the next, she’s lying in a hospital bed diagnosed with a “probably temporary” condition known as face blindness. She can see, but every face she looks at is now a jumbled puzzle of disconnected features. Imagine trying to read a book upside down and in another language. This is Sadie’s new reality with every face she sees.
But, as she struggles to cope, hang on to her artistic dream, work through major family issues, and take care of her beloved dog, Peanut, she falls into—love? Lust? A temporary obsession to distract from the real problems in her life?—with not one man but two very different ones. The timing couldn’t be worse.
If only her life were a little more in focus, Sadie might be able to find her way. But perceiving anything clearly right now seems impossible. Even though there are things we can only find when we aren’t looking. And there are people who show up when we least expect them. And there are always, always other ways of seeing.
323 pages, Hardcover
First published July 11, 2023
7012 people are currently reading
185327 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Center
26 books29.3k followershttps://katherinecenter.com/about/
https://www.instagram.com/katherinece...
BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She’s the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, Things You Save in a Fire, and her summer 2024 book, The Rom-Commers. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books: bittersweet romantic comedies about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” The Netflix movie adaptation of her novel Happiness for Beginners—starring Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes—just hit the Global Top Ten in 81 countries, and the movie of her novel The Lost Husband was a surprise Netflix sensation in 2020, hitting number one and landing in their top 25 movies for the year. Her books have made countless Best-Of lists—at Audible, BookBub, and Book of the Month, as well as Goodreads' Best Books of the Year, and Amazon's yearly Top 100 books. Emily Henry calls The Bodyguard “my perfect 10 of a book,” and Jodi Picoult says of Things You Save in a Fire, “Just read it, and thank me later.” Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two almost-grown teenagers, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.
https://www.instagram.com/katherinece...
BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She’s the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, Things You Save in a Fire, and her summer 2024 book, The Rom-Commers. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books: bittersweet romantic comedies about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” The Netflix movie adaptation of her novel Happiness for Beginners—starring Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes—just hit the Global Top Ten in 81 countries, and the movie of her novel The Lost Husband was a surprise Netflix sensation in 2020, hitting number one and landing in their top 25 movies for the year. Her books have made countless Best-Of lists—at Audible, BookBub, and Book of the Month, as well as Goodreads' Best Books of the Year, and Amazon's yearly Top 100 books. Emily Henry calls The Bodyguard “my perfect 10 of a book,” and Jodi Picoult says of Things You Save in a Fire, “Just read it, and thank me later.” Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two almost-grown teenagers, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 26,316 reviews
July 27, 2023
HELLO NEW BOOK I WILL NOT BE SHUTTING UP ABOUT!!!! PLS READ THIS!!!
April 11, 2024
I enjoyed the message of this novel, but getting there was a struggle.
2.5 stars
"We see what we're looking for."
Hello Stranger is a novel about an artist who loses her ability to see faces and the two men she is torn between.
Sadie is a portrait artist who just learned she is a finalist in a prestigious art competition. She is flying high until she experiences a medical issue that requires her to undergo brain surgery. Sadie wakes up from surgery to her worst nightmare--she is face blind. Adding to the drama, she is now torn between two men--neither of whose faces she can see.
Here's the thing: the premise is compelling. The problem is Sadie’s character--I found her bratty, selfish, and whiny. Even before she experiences her crisis, she is self-consumed. I got bored of her feeling sorry for herself--I know she was struggling, and she should have had my sympathy, but her behavior put me off.
The triangle between Joe, Sadie, and Dr. Addison also was a failure. I was cringing almost the whole time while reading this. Sadie experiences crisis after crisis and is constantly helped by Joe, Sue, and other mysterious strangers (even though she prefers to rescue herself). Yet, she never takes the time to return the favor and ask others questions about themselves and what they do for a living. It's all about Sadie all the time. (I know part of this was for plot purposes but really?!)
Usually with Center’s books, I pick them up and struggle to put them down. With this book, I had to coax myself into picking it back up once I put it down. I liked the premise and some of the characters. I loved The Kims and Peanut, and Parker was a great villain. Thankfully, the last 10%, things took a turn for the better.
I am very much an outlier when it comes to this book. Most readers have loved it, so it might just be me. Check it out for yourself!
I receiveed an ARC of this book from St. Martin's Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
"We see what we're looking for."
Hello Stranger is a novel about an artist who loses her ability to see faces and the two men she is torn between.
Sadie is a portrait artist who just learned she is a finalist in a prestigious art competition. She is flying high until she experiences a medical issue that requires her to undergo brain surgery. Sadie wakes up from surgery to her worst nightmare--she is face blind. Adding to the drama, she is now torn between two men--neither of whose faces she can see.
Here's the thing: the premise is compelling. The problem is Sadie’s character--I found her bratty, selfish, and whiny. Even before she experiences her crisis, she is self-consumed. I got bored of her feeling sorry for herself--I know she was struggling, and she should have had my sympathy, but her behavior put me off.
The triangle between Joe, Sadie, and Dr. Addison also was a failure. I was cringing almost the whole time while reading this. Sadie experiences crisis after crisis and is constantly helped by Joe, Sue, and other mysterious strangers (even though she prefers to rescue herself). Yet, she never takes the time to return the favor and ask others questions about themselves and what they do for a living. It's all about Sadie all the time. (I know part of this was for plot purposes but really?!)
Usually with Center’s books, I pick them up and struggle to put them down. With this book, I had to coax myself into picking it back up once I put it down. I liked the premise and some of the characters. I loved The Kims and Peanut, and Parker was a great villain. Thankfully, the last 10%, things took a turn for the better.
I am very much an outlier when it comes to this book. Most readers have loved it, so it might just be me. Check it out for yourself!
I receiveed an ARC of this book from St. Martin's Press and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2025
Another five starred review is coming up for one of my favorite romance authors who knows how to play with the strings of our hearts with her uplifting, feel good, sentimental stories and sweetest characters!
This time Katherine Center approaches neurovascular issues such as cavernoma, prosopagnosia ( face blindness), informing us about how many people suffer from diagnosis, coping strategies, effects of the daily lives of the people!
I haven’t known there was so much people suffer from face blindness and interestingly some of them are living their lives without knowing their condition.
This is absolutely another heart warming story contains a lovely mystery:
This twisty, entertaining, lighthearted romance is centered on Sadie Montgomery who is struggling artist, barely making ends meet, living in her art studio because she’s broke. Her estranged father is successful surgeon who never approves the life choices she’s made. After losing her mother, Sadie’s life completely changes. Her father marries with Lucinda and she gets bullied by her evil incarnation step sister Parker for over and over. ( Parker is worst kind of villanelle who earns ten million slapping points: Because of her Sadie gets kicked out from her school, losing her reputation, her boyfriend. Even her own father picks Parker’s side: she also loses her entire family)
When she has a seizure in the middle of the street, being saved by a Good Samaritan from being hit by a car, she opens her eyes at the hospital, seeing her Martha Stewart’s evil step sister a.k.a. stepmother is giving her worried looks. The doctor’s diagnosis takes her breath away: There’s a malformed blood vessel in the brain: called cavernoma. She might be living with this lesion in her entire life and now she needs to have a surgery. The timing couldn’t be so bad because she becomes finalist at highly prestigious portrait competition and she has not much time to finish her task.
But having a surgery is not the worst thing that will change her future. After the surgery she realizes she cannot see the people’s faces. She cannot differentiate between her best friend Sue and arch nemesis Parker. Everybody looks like stranger to her.
How can she draw a portrait when she can see people’s faces? As she tries so hard to cope with her own situation she finds herself between a love triangle. She falls for two men and she still didn’t know how their faces look like. One of them is womanizer bad boy/ helpful Joe lives in her apartment and the other one is good hearted veterinarian who saved her dog Peanut’s life!
Her doctor tells in a few weeks she may get healed and start seeing the people’s faces but what if her condition is not temporary? She can lose her entire career she’s worked for and she may also lose the chance to look into the eyes of her potential soul mate : helpful neighbor Joe or veterinarian with perfect gait! Eventually she has to make a choice!
I foresaw the big twist but it was still entertaining to read the surprising revelations! This is emotional, inspirational and highly enjoyable, heartwarming reading that highly deserved my shiny five stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this perfect digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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This time Katherine Center approaches neurovascular issues such as cavernoma, prosopagnosia ( face blindness), informing us about how many people suffer from diagnosis, coping strategies, effects of the daily lives of the people!
I haven’t known there was so much people suffer from face blindness and interestingly some of them are living their lives without knowing their condition.
This is absolutely another heart warming story contains a lovely mystery:
This twisty, entertaining, lighthearted romance is centered on Sadie Montgomery who is struggling artist, barely making ends meet, living in her art studio because she’s broke. Her estranged father is successful surgeon who never approves the life choices she’s made. After losing her mother, Sadie’s life completely changes. Her father marries with Lucinda and she gets bullied by her evil incarnation step sister Parker for over and over. ( Parker is worst kind of villanelle who earns ten million slapping points: Because of her Sadie gets kicked out from her school, losing her reputation, her boyfriend. Even her own father picks Parker’s side: she also loses her entire family)
When she has a seizure in the middle of the street, being saved by a Good Samaritan from being hit by a car, she opens her eyes at the hospital, seeing her Martha Stewart’s evil step sister a.k.a. stepmother is giving her worried looks. The doctor’s diagnosis takes her breath away: There’s a malformed blood vessel in the brain: called cavernoma. She might be living with this lesion in her entire life and now she needs to have a surgery. The timing couldn’t be so bad because she becomes finalist at highly prestigious portrait competition and she has not much time to finish her task.
But having a surgery is not the worst thing that will change her future. After the surgery she realizes she cannot see the people’s faces. She cannot differentiate between her best friend Sue and arch nemesis Parker. Everybody looks like stranger to her.
How can she draw a portrait when she can see people’s faces? As she tries so hard to cope with her own situation she finds herself between a love triangle. She falls for two men and she still didn’t know how their faces look like. One of them is womanizer bad boy/ helpful Joe lives in her apartment and the other one is good hearted veterinarian who saved her dog Peanut’s life!
Her doctor tells in a few weeks she may get healed and start seeing the people’s faces but what if her condition is not temporary? She can lose her entire career she’s worked for and she may also lose the chance to look into the eyes of her potential soul mate : helpful neighbor Joe or veterinarian with perfect gait! Eventually she has to make a choice!
I foresaw the big twist but it was still entertaining to read the surprising revelations! This is emotional, inspirational and highly enjoyable, heartwarming reading that highly deserved my shiny five stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this perfect digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
August 10, 2023
I want to be as delulu as this main character is. ( I do not know how I feel about her)
July 11, 2023
My new favorite Katherine Center book! 🥰
I NEEDED a dose of hope and a dollop of happiness, so when an invitation to read an early copy of this book, arrived-I started IMMEDIATELY!
Sadie Montgomery is a struggling artist, following in her mother’s footsteps. She paints portraits-her style being compared to Norman Rockwell-and has just been told that she has earned one of the coveted finalist spots in a competition that could be life changing.
It’s the same competition her Mom placed in, years ago-so it means all that much more to her-since she lost her mom when she was fourteen. So, when she learns that she needs surgery, 6 weeks before the show, she isn’t going to let that stop her from competing. She will just have to work faster, and work harder, when she is released from the hospital!
She NEVER expected to wake up from the surgery with “acquired apperceptive prosopagnosia”-Face Blindness.
How can a Portrait Artist paint-if she can’t see faces?
Sadie may not have the support of her father, step-mother, or evil step-sister-but she does have a best friend, Soo Hyun (Sue) and Sue’s parents-who always offer her unconditional love and encouragement.
And, her elderly dog, Peanut, who just happens to have her FAVORITE face in the World-and one that thankfully, she can still see!
But, when Peanut gets sick-it’s more than she can bear with everything else she is facing.
Until she meets the emergency Veterinarian, Dr. Oliver Addison-who she can tell is good looking, as well as brilliant, even without seeing his face.
After all, he saves Peanut!
It’s Love at First Sight-Sight Unseen!
As Sadie confronts all of her new challenges, she is going to need some help-something she HATES asking for.
Fortunately, her neighbor Joe, is just the kind of person who LOVES to provide it-and doesn’t take “NO” for an answer.
All of a sudden there are two men in her life, each offering something she needs.
Sadie discovers that not being able to “see faces” is making her pay attention to all that she has been missing-and maybe-just maybe-she is seeing things clearly for the first time!
Katherine Center offers us a heart warming, HUG of a story, filled with her trademark humor-and dancing!
And, it was EXACTLY what I needed!
Sweet but not spicy…
The “anticipation” of what would happen, delivered all I wanted and more! (DO READ her acknowledgments at the end of the book).
Isn’t that why we pick up a romance to begin with? ❤️
A buddy read with DeAnn who loved this just as much as I did! Be sure to check out her fabulous review!
NOW AVAILABLE!!
Thank You to Erica at St. Martin’s for the gifted copy that I was obviously thrilled to receive- it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
I NEEDED a dose of hope and a dollop of happiness, so when an invitation to read an early copy of this book, arrived-I started IMMEDIATELY!
Sadie Montgomery is a struggling artist, following in her mother’s footsteps. She paints portraits-her style being compared to Norman Rockwell-and has just been told that she has earned one of the coveted finalist spots in a competition that could be life changing.
It’s the same competition her Mom placed in, years ago-so it means all that much more to her-since she lost her mom when she was fourteen. So, when she learns that she needs surgery, 6 weeks before the show, she isn’t going to let that stop her from competing. She will just have to work faster, and work harder, when she is released from the hospital!
She NEVER expected to wake up from the surgery with “acquired apperceptive prosopagnosia”-Face Blindness.
How can a Portrait Artist paint-if she can’t see faces?
Sadie may not have the support of her father, step-mother, or evil step-sister-but she does have a best friend, Soo Hyun (Sue) and Sue’s parents-who always offer her unconditional love and encouragement.
And, her elderly dog, Peanut, who just happens to have her FAVORITE face in the World-and one that thankfully, she can still see!
But, when Peanut gets sick-it’s more than she can bear with everything else she is facing.
Until she meets the emergency Veterinarian, Dr. Oliver Addison-who she can tell is good looking, as well as brilliant, even without seeing his face.
After all, he saves Peanut!
It’s Love at First Sight-Sight Unseen!
As Sadie confronts all of her new challenges, she is going to need some help-something she HATES asking for.
Fortunately, her neighbor Joe, is just the kind of person who LOVES to provide it-and doesn’t take “NO” for an answer.
All of a sudden there are two men in her life, each offering something she needs.
Sadie discovers that not being able to “see faces” is making her pay attention to all that she has been missing-and maybe-just maybe-she is seeing things clearly for the first time!
Katherine Center offers us a heart warming, HUG of a story, filled with her trademark humor-and dancing!
And, it was EXACTLY what I needed!
Sweet but not spicy…
The “anticipation” of what would happen, delivered all I wanted and more! (DO READ her acknowledgments at the end of the book).
Isn’t that why we pick up a romance to begin with? ❤️
A buddy read with DeAnn who loved this just as much as I did! Be sure to check out her fabulous review!
NOW AVAILABLE!!
Thank You to Erica at St. Martin’s for the gifted copy that I was obviously thrilled to receive- it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Read
September 22, 2023i reaaaaaally did not enjoy this. not sure how it's possible to make a heroine with a TERRIBLE family unsympathetic but it was certainly accomplished here. she feeds her dog anything BUT nutritionally appropriate dog food. she whines a lot. and for someone with a true passion in life, it didn't seem like it mattered much at all. (and the multiple romantic misunderstandings??? no.)
i'll still probably pick up more books by this author in the future since this is the only one of her's so far that i've actively disliked. but dang am i disappointed.
i'll still probably pick up more books by this author in the future since this is the only one of her's so far that i've actively disliked. but dang am i disappointed.
May 27, 2023
Me = disappointed!😫
I’m a huge Katherine Center fan, even proudly displaying several of her works on my favorites’ shelf. So what happened here?🤷♀️
Sadie’s dream is about to come true. She’s a struggling artist who became a finalist in a prestigious portrait competition. But now all that hard work may be for naught as she recovers from a repair of a leaking blood vessel in her brain. That’s right, six weeks before the final competition Sadie had to have brain surgery that left her with the inability to see faces!
And yes, it’s a real thing! Face blindness (Prosopagnosia).
I wish I could say I empathized with Sadie, but just couldn’t. She was such a despicable character even before her surgery. Selfish, whiny and rude.
The storyline itself gave me some difficulties. Inconsistencies regarding whose voice Sadie could recognize and who was a stranger every time they approached her.
Example:
Those are just a few but they just seemed to be endless.
A buddy read with Susanne that we both came away with identical thoughts and feelings. It generated quite the discussion, let me tell ya!!
I see most readers absolutely loved this book and I wish we could have joined them.
We’re very much in the minority here, enjoying cocktails on Outlier island.🍹😎🏝️ .
I had both the digital and audio versions, and on the positive side I did enjoy the narration from Patti Murin.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and Macmillan Audio.
I’m a huge Katherine Center fan, even proudly displaying several of her works on my favorites’ shelf. So what happened here?🤷♀️
Sadie’s dream is about to come true. She’s a struggling artist who became a finalist in a prestigious portrait competition. But now all that hard work may be for naught as she recovers from a repair of a leaking blood vessel in her brain. That’s right, six weeks before the final competition Sadie had to have brain surgery that left her with the inability to see faces!
And yes, it’s a real thing! Face blindness (Prosopagnosia).
I wish I could say I empathized with Sadie, but just couldn’t. She was such a despicable character even before her surgery. Selfish, whiny and rude.
The storyline itself gave me some difficulties. Inconsistencies regarding whose voice Sadie could recognize and who was a stranger every time they approached her.
Example:
Those are just a few but they just seemed to be endless.
A buddy read with Susanne that we both came away with identical thoughts and feelings. It generated quite the discussion, let me tell ya!!
I see most readers absolutely loved this book and I wish we could have joined them.
We’re very much in the minority here, enjoying cocktails on Outlier island.🍹😎🏝️ .
I had both the digital and audio versions, and on the positive side I did enjoy the narration from Patti Murin.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and Macmillan Audio.
June 13, 2023
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Imagine being a portrait artist, finally getting some recognition and ending up with acquired apperceptive prosopagnosia (also known as face blindness or the facepocalypse 😆). Well, that's precisely what happens to Sadie in Hello Stranger. Add to the fact that she falls in like with two different men and you have a pretty decent romantic tale.
This is my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. I love feel good fiction once in a while and this fit the bill, I wanted to hug this book when I had finished it! I am not a huge romance reader but this book was so much more than that. It's about growing up, not letting life's pitfalls stand in your way and learning to let go of weights that hold us back and yes it is about falling in love too. The plot played out as I anticipated it would (I will not say predicted...read the acknowledgements to find out why) but it in no way ruined my enjoyment of the book as the journey to get there was so much fun.
The book is well researched and the author describes Sadie's experiences so well, I could easily imagine them in my mind's eye. Center uses humour to help Sadie get through her ordeal and it was so much fun. Other reviewers have said this is the author's best work yet and I can certainly understand why, I enjoyed this one a lot.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
Imagine being a portrait artist, finally getting some recognition and ending up with acquired apperceptive prosopagnosia (also known as face blindness or the facepocalypse 😆). Well, that's precisely what happens to Sadie in Hello Stranger. Add to the fact that she falls in like with two different men and you have a pretty decent romantic tale.
This is my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. I love feel good fiction once in a while and this fit the bill, I wanted to hug this book when I had finished it! I am not a huge romance reader but this book was so much more than that. It's about growing up, not letting life's pitfalls stand in your way and learning to let go of weights that hold us back and yes it is about falling in love too. The plot played out as I anticipated it would (I will not say predicted...read the acknowledgements to find out why) but it in no way ruined my enjoyment of the book as the journey to get there was so much fun.
The book is well researched and the author describes Sadie's experiences so well, I could easily imagine them in my mind's eye. Center uses humour to help Sadie get through her ordeal and it was so much fun. Other reviewers have said this is the author's best work yet and I can certainly understand why, I enjoyed this one a lot.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
July 10, 2023
We all know that sometimes we just don’t see clearly when it comes to love, but for Sadie Montgomery … she literally can’t see clearly.
In an unexpected chain of events, one week she’s painting photorealistic portraits and qualifying for a prestigious art contest, and the next she finds herself experiencing prosopagnosia, or face-blindness. Talk about bad timing! How is she going to paint a portrait for the contest when everyone’s faces now look like a puzzle?
On the brighter side, despite not being able to distinguish faces, she really likes her dog Peanut’s new vet, Dr. Addison, and there’s also her questionably-behaved neighbor Joe in the picture. Neither of them know that she can’t tell who they are by their faces, though she has definite ideas about which one she wants, until that starts getting fuzzy too!
Katherine Center shows again why she’s a master of her genre. This is funny, charming, and filled with entertaining characters. Sadie can be prickly at times, but I was always rooting for her as she worked through her painful past and present circumstances. Her best friend Sue was hilariously blunt, Joe was fun, and even her cruel stepsister Parker somehow made me laugh.
From the premise to the ending, it’s well written and engaging. The only downsides: I thought there was a little too much explaining at the end and a few story elements that my overthinking brain had to just roll with and not question too much, but as Center so brilliantly explains in her author’s note, it comes with the territory of the genre. Definitely read or listen to her thoughts!
I both read this and listened to the audio narrated by Patti Murin, who I absolutely love! I think it would’ve been harder to find the humor in some characters - especially Parker - if I’d only read it, but Murin’s voicing for her was snarktastic, and she does gender voicing perfectly, which I always appreciate.
It’s a great read, a wonderful listen and a whole lot of fun. I highly recommend it!
★★★★ ½
Thanks to St. Martins Press, NetGalley, and author Katherine Center for the DRC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. This will be out on July 11, 2023.
In an unexpected chain of events, one week she’s painting photorealistic portraits and qualifying for a prestigious art contest, and the next she finds herself experiencing prosopagnosia, or face-blindness. Talk about bad timing! How is she going to paint a portrait for the contest when everyone’s faces now look like a puzzle?
On the brighter side, despite not being able to distinguish faces, she really likes her dog Peanut’s new vet, Dr. Addison, and there’s also her questionably-behaved neighbor Joe in the picture. Neither of them know that she can’t tell who they are by their faces, though she has definite ideas about which one she wants, until that starts getting fuzzy too!
Katherine Center shows again why she’s a master of her genre. This is funny, charming, and filled with entertaining characters. Sadie can be prickly at times, but I was always rooting for her as she worked through her painful past and present circumstances. Her best friend Sue was hilariously blunt, Joe was fun, and even her cruel stepsister Parker somehow made me laugh.
From the premise to the ending, it’s well written and engaging. The only downsides: I thought there was a little too much explaining at the end and a few story elements that my overthinking brain had to just roll with and not question too much, but as Center so brilliantly explains in her author’s note, it comes with the territory of the genre. Definitely read or listen to her thoughts!
I both read this and listened to the audio narrated by Patti Murin, who I absolutely love! I think it would’ve been harder to find the humor in some characters - especially Parker - if I’d only read it, but Murin’s voicing for her was snarktastic, and she does gender voicing perfectly, which I always appreciate.
It’s a great read, a wonderful listen and a whole lot of fun. I highly recommend it!
★★★★ ½
Thanks to St. Martins Press, NetGalley, and author Katherine Center for the DRC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. This will be out on July 11, 2023.
July 21, 2024
best book of the year me thinks
May 30, 2023
3.5 STARS
A little OTT for a romance, but very readable. I had no trouble picking it up and getting lost in Sadie's world (She is dealing with so much)!
She has major family issues, a career crisis, money problems, and has just found out she needs brain surgery! Talk about a pile on, anyone would be overwhelmed with everything she was dealing with. Not to mention what happens next....
I love that this author's books are always easy, light and have funny moments to move the story along.
The little twist surprised me (not really though), but I was still a bit enchanted by it! I'm a happy reader.
This was a Giveaway win for me! Thanks GR! OUT July 11, 2023
A little OTT for a romance, but very readable. I had no trouble picking it up and getting lost in Sadie's world (She is dealing with so much)!
She has major family issues, a career crisis, money problems, and has just found out she needs brain surgery! Talk about a pile on, anyone would be overwhelmed with everything she was dealing with. Not to mention what happens next....
I love that this author's books are always easy, light and have funny moments to move the story along.
The little twist surprised me (not really though), but I was still a bit enchanted by it! I'm a happy reader.
This was a Giveaway win for me! Thanks GR! OUT July 11, 2023
August 13, 2023
Hello Stranger by Katherine Center is Her Best One Yet!
Wow! It's been over two years since I've read a Katherine Center book. Two long years! So, I was worried about starting Hello Stranger and more than a little nervous, as well.
During this two year gap, I read less and less of the Romance genre, especially Rom-Com, as the stories began to sound muddled in my ears, my head, and in my heart. The thought of reading one more with the Insta-Love troupe or another with the bedroom door completely torn down, well let's just say it's not my idea of romance. I'm a little old fashion that way.
When I began reading and listening to Hello Stranger "all the feels" of a Katherine Center story came rushing back to me and all my concerns melted away. It was like visiting an old friend and getting a great big hug.
What I truly love about this author's storytelling is how she picks a topic, wraps it around a female main character who's struggling through it and trying to get to the other side as whole as possible.
Then, love walks in. And why not? Everything's a little better with it than without it, right?
In Hello Stranger our main character is Sadie Montgomery and she walks you through her story in a first person point-of-view that is touching, humorous, and believable. She's a struggling portrait artist who's having trouble seeing a few things clearly right now. That's enough to get you started and like all this author's stories, this one isn't only about romance, it's about life, dealing with challenging situations, memories from the past, and through it all, trying to carve out a future that works.
Hello Stranger was a joy to both read and listen to. My preference, by far, is the audiobook with the excellent narration by the talented Patti Murin. Her voicing is fabulous and worthy of a second listen!
There is one more thing you'll need to know about this author. I ugly cry with every single book I've read from her. Heck, I cried writing this dang review. I suggest you plan on having plenty of tissues to get through Hello Stranger. It's a doozie.
I think I say this about every Katherine Center book after I've read it, this is her best one yet. I mean it this time. Really. I highly recommend Hello Stranger to everyone that reads!
5⭐
Thank you to Katherine Center, St. Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for a DRC and ALC of this book through NetGalley. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
Wow! It's been over two years since I've read a Katherine Center book. Two long years! So, I was worried about starting Hello Stranger and more than a little nervous, as well.
During this two year gap, I read less and less of the Romance genre, especially Rom-Com, as the stories began to sound muddled in my ears, my head, and in my heart. The thought of reading one more with the Insta-Love troupe or another with the bedroom door completely torn down, well let's just say it's not my idea of romance. I'm a little old fashion that way.
When I began reading and listening to Hello Stranger "all the feels" of a Katherine Center story came rushing back to me and all my concerns melted away. It was like visiting an old friend and getting a great big hug.
What I truly love about this author's storytelling is how she picks a topic, wraps it around a female main character who's struggling through it and trying to get to the other side as whole as possible.
Then, love walks in. And why not? Everything's a little better with it than without it, right?
In Hello Stranger our main character is Sadie Montgomery and she walks you through her story in a first person point-of-view that is touching, humorous, and believable. She's a struggling portrait artist who's having trouble seeing a few things clearly right now. That's enough to get you started and like all this author's stories, this one isn't only about romance, it's about life, dealing with challenging situations, memories from the past, and through it all, trying to carve out a future that works.
Hello Stranger was a joy to both read and listen to. My preference, by far, is the audiobook with the excellent narration by the talented Patti Murin. Her voicing is fabulous and worthy of a second listen!
There is one more thing you'll need to know about this author. I ugly cry with every single book I've read from her. Heck, I cried writing this dang review. I suggest you plan on having plenty of tissues to get through Hello Stranger. It's a doozie.
I think I say this about every Katherine Center book after I've read it, this is her best one yet. I mean it this time. Really. I highly recommend Hello Stranger to everyone that reads!
5⭐
Thank you to Katherine Center, St. Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for a DRC and ALC of this book through NetGalley. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
July 17, 2023
4 Stars
I wanted to write a long, fully-fleshed out review for this book; but, alas, I just can't be bothered right now.
Because tired.
Lazy.
Sadly lacking in any motivation for actual effort.
You get the picture.
Instead I just figured I would lay something down here before I completely forget to do so.
So off we go.
After really, really not liking Katherine Center's last book (which I found WAY too cheesy sweet and the review for which you can find HERE), I didn't look toward her next release with all that much excitement; however, after seeing that this book featured a character with Prosopagnosia, I was 100% on board.
You see, a few years ago, I remember reading an article that talked about Brad Pitt having Prosopagnosia, or "face blindness," and he talked about his struggle to recognize people outside of environmental context, etc. As I often do when I find something particularly interesting, I fell down a research rabbit hole and read alllllll up on Prosopagnosia. So I was super intrigued by this book premise.
And overall, I feel like this delivered for me on the intriguing Prosopagnosia front AND the sweet romance-lite (without being TOO sticky sweet) front. Sadie was a nice character and I enjoyed her. Was she borderline Manic Pixie Dream Girl? Yes. But at least she wasn't as obnoxious as What You Wish For's Samantha.
Man, I could not stand those characters. At ALL. So I was a little worried Sadie would head in that direction. Thankfully, she didn't. And add in these quotes:
"'Are you telling me that love isn't real?'
But Dr. Nicole pulled rank on me then. Pausing a good while before saying, 'Is that a question designed to get us closer to the truth or to steer us away from it?'
God, she was good."
Stop it, you magical mage.
Followed up with:
"If there were a dog hall of fame, Peanut would be on all their merchandise. He was cute as hell without being full of himself. He was endlessly cheery. He was a good eater without being a glutton. He was just as happy to go on a walk as he was to spend the entire day napping. He loved a good squeaky toy, but he lost interest at exactly the same rate I did...His self-esteem was solid. His fashion sense was legendary. His sense of humor was totally deadpan. I preferred him to most people even in normal times, is what I'm saying."
SOLD.
Speaking of dogs, the "twist" here was so obvious that any one of my four dogs would have seen it from a mile away if they could actually read. And one of my dogs is arguably and legitimately mentally challenged.
Was the evil Parker stepsister character seemingly right out of Cinderella?
Yes.
Was the ending completely ridiculous and overly convenient?
Yes.
Did I still appreciate the overall optimism and feelings of HOPE Katherine Center always goes for? Yes.
In fact, the author's note in this book was one of my favorite parts of the reading experience and it actually made me enjoy the book that much more. It made me appreciate Katherine Center's brand of storytelling and the hopefulness with which she paints the page. What You Wish For had the same underlying theme, but did not land for me. Well this one did.
Perhaps it all comes down to timing. Who knows. Either way, I really enjoyed this book for what it was: a book about humanity and hope with a sprinkle of romance and an interesting premise.
I wanted to write a long, fully-fleshed out review for this book; but, alas, I just can't be bothered right now.
Because tired.
Lazy.
Sadly lacking in any motivation for actual effort.
You get the picture.
Instead I just figured I would lay something down here before I completely forget to do so.
So off we go.
After really, really not liking Katherine Center's last book (which I found WAY too cheesy sweet and the review for which you can find HERE), I didn't look toward her next release with all that much excitement; however, after seeing that this book featured a character with Prosopagnosia, I was 100% on board.
You see, a few years ago, I remember reading an article that talked about Brad Pitt having Prosopagnosia, or "face blindness," and he talked about his struggle to recognize people outside of environmental context, etc. As I often do when I find something particularly interesting, I fell down a research rabbit hole and read alllllll up on Prosopagnosia. So I was super intrigued by this book premise.
And overall, I feel like this delivered for me on the intriguing Prosopagnosia front AND the sweet romance-lite (without being TOO sticky sweet) front. Sadie was a nice character and I enjoyed her. Was she borderline Manic Pixie Dream Girl? Yes. But at least she wasn't as obnoxious as What You Wish For's Samantha.
Man, I could not stand those characters. At ALL. So I was a little worried Sadie would head in that direction. Thankfully, she didn't. And add in these quotes:
"'Are you telling me that love isn't real?'
But Dr. Nicole pulled rank on me then. Pausing a good while before saying, 'Is that a question designed to get us closer to the truth or to steer us away from it?'
God, she was good."
Stop it, you magical mage.
Followed up with:
"If there were a dog hall of fame, Peanut would be on all their merchandise. He was cute as hell without being full of himself. He was endlessly cheery. He was a good eater without being a glutton. He was just as happy to go on a walk as he was to spend the entire day napping. He loved a good squeaky toy, but he lost interest at exactly the same rate I did...His self-esteem was solid. His fashion sense was legendary. His sense of humor was totally deadpan. I preferred him to most people even in normal times, is what I'm saying."
SOLD.
Speaking of dogs, the "twist" here was so obvious that any one of my four dogs would have seen it from a mile away if they could actually read. And one of my dogs is arguably and legitimately mentally challenged.
Was the evil Parker stepsister character seemingly right out of Cinderella?
Yes.
Was the ending completely ridiculous and overly convenient?
Yes.
Did I still appreciate the overall optimism and feelings of HOPE Katherine Center always goes for? Yes.
In fact, the author's note in this book was one of my favorite parts of the reading experience and it actually made me enjoy the book that much more. It made me appreciate Katherine Center's brand of storytelling and the hopefulness with which she paints the page. What You Wish For had the same underlying theme, but did not land for me. Well this one did.
Perhaps it all comes down to timing. Who knows. Either way, I really enjoyed this book for what it was: a book about humanity and hope with a sprinkle of romance and an interesting premise.
May 2, 2024
❝ Isn’t it lucky when we’re drawn to people who can teach us the things we need to learn? ❞
⤷ jump then fall by taylor swift 💙💐
every time you smile, I’ll smile, and every time you shine, I’ll shine for you
Is it premature to declare undying love for katherine center?
This is only the second book I’ve been blessed enough to read by her but I already have those two books shelved under my favorite-author tag. There’s just something about her books that make me both incandescently happy and bittersweet when I finish them.
I hesitate to call this book simply a romance– because while it is, it’s also so much more than that. It packs a surprisingly emotional punch alongside the fluffy feels. It’s not just a book about finding a significant other, it’s also about finding hope and being able to see the best in people, even if you can’t recognize them or see their faces. I definitely cried at the beautiful ending, and just a teensy bit of my hope for humanity was restored.
⤷ sadie herself was… let’s just say… extremely silly. Don’t get me wrong, I loved her and her quirky teenager persona, but I had a hard time believing she was a twenty-something who was capable of supporting herself. But, being a teenager myself, I could relate to her and overall she was amazing.
⤷ joe is my mansss omg. Not only was he hot (like, extremely hot), but he legitimately was such a sweetheart and had such a kind soul! Sadie was so real for being obsessed with him… I feel you girlie. I loved him <3
The romance was swoony and had absolutely everything you could want. Banter, flirting, lots of adorable moments, and a realistic, sometimes messy, yet beautiful love. Was there miscommunication?? You bet. But it was actually valid tbh… and that’s all I’m going to say. Read the book and find out what I mean for yourself hehe.
⤷ this was adorable, hilarious, and will make you cry and laugh and squeal all at the same time. It definitely touched a very special part of my heart and is a book that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. From the bottom of my heart, I implore you to read this! There’s no possible way you could regret it <3
❝ It takes a certain kind of courage to be brave in love. A courage you can only get better at through practice. ❞
p.s. shoutout to peanut the dog!! I’m definitely not a dog person, but I can make an exception once in a while. He was adorable 🥹
⤷ jump then fall by taylor swift 💙💐
every time you smile, I’ll smile, and every time you shine, I’ll shine for you
Is it premature to declare undying love for katherine center?
This is only the second book I’ve been blessed enough to read by her but I already have those two books shelved under my favorite-author tag. There’s just something about her books that make me both incandescently happy and bittersweet when I finish them.
I hesitate to call this book simply a romance– because while it is, it’s also so much more than that. It packs a surprisingly emotional punch alongside the fluffy feels. It’s not just a book about finding a significant other, it’s also about finding hope and being able to see the best in people, even if you can’t recognize them or see their faces. I definitely cried at the beautiful ending, and just a teensy bit of my hope for humanity was restored.
⤷ sadie herself was… let’s just say… extremely silly. Don’t get me wrong, I loved her and her quirky teenager persona, but I had a hard time believing she was a twenty-something who was capable of supporting herself. But, being a teenager myself, I could relate to her and overall she was amazing.
⤷ joe is my mansss omg. Not only was he hot (like, extremely hot), but he legitimately was such a sweetheart and had such a kind soul! Sadie was so real for being obsessed with him… I feel you girlie. I loved him <3
The romance was swoony and had absolutely everything you could want. Banter, flirting, lots of adorable moments, and a realistic, sometimes messy, yet beautiful love. Was there miscommunication?? You bet. But it was actually valid tbh… and that’s all I’m going to say. Read the book and find out what I mean for yourself hehe.
⤷ this was adorable, hilarious, and will make you cry and laugh and squeal all at the same time. It definitely touched a very special part of my heart and is a book that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. From the bottom of my heart, I implore you to read this! There’s no possible way you could regret it <3
❝ It takes a certain kind of courage to be brave in love. A courage you can only get better at through practice. ❞
p.s. shoutout to peanut the dog!! I’m definitely not a dog person, but I can make an exception once in a while. He was adorable 🥹
July 12, 2023
4.5⭐
Awww, this was such a feel-good and happy read!! When I finished I had this big grin on my face and felt I want to give strangers a hug like a crazy woman that I am, hahaa! 🤗🥰
Kathrine Center has become my top go-to romance author. Hello Stranger is my third novel by the author and I find her greatest strength to be her characters. I fall in love with her characters every single time.
Her characters are likable and quirky. They often have some sort of challenges in their life and are surrounded by characters that are equally memorable.
Sadie Montgomery's a portrait artist down on her luck and kinda broke. A sudden seizure put Sadie in a hospital and surgery resulted in her temporary (?) face blindness. How will she paint? Her beloved fur baby Peanut is sick and needs to see a vet. Her BFF Sue elopes while she's going through all of this. She can't even see the face of her evil stepmother and sister. That weasel neighbor Joe is just too helpful.
Wow, that's a lot for poor Sadie to overcome. I love how the author adds humor to all that life throws at Sadie. The crush on Dr. Addison, Peanuts's vet who she fantasized about marrying (without knowing what he looks like), and her wonderful landlord Mr. Kim who is like family.
I love the message of joy and strength and how one overcomes her challenges. The author gives readers another heartwarming and clean romance. I completely enjoyed this romcom and yes, I did see the reveal coming a mile away but it was still a pretty amazing read. Don't miss the author's note and the audio by Patti Murin is fantastic. Loooved it!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for my advance copy for review.
Published July 11, 2023!
Awww, this was such a feel-good and happy read!! When I finished I had this big grin on my face and felt I want to give strangers a hug like a crazy woman that I am, hahaa! 🤗🥰
Kathrine Center has become my top go-to romance author. Hello Stranger is my third novel by the author and I find her greatest strength to be her characters. I fall in love with her characters every single time.
Her characters are likable and quirky. They often have some sort of challenges in their life and are surrounded by characters that are equally memorable.
Sadie Montgomery's a portrait artist down on her luck and kinda broke. A sudden seizure put Sadie in a hospital and surgery resulted in her temporary (?) face blindness. How will she paint? Her beloved fur baby Peanut is sick and needs to see a vet. Her BFF Sue elopes while she's going through all of this. She can't even see the face of her evil stepmother and sister. That weasel neighbor Joe is just too helpful.
Wow, that's a lot for poor Sadie to overcome. I love how the author adds humor to all that life throws at Sadie. The crush on Dr. Addison, Peanuts's vet who she fantasized about marrying (without knowing what he looks like), and her wonderful landlord Mr. Kim who is like family.
I love the message of joy and strength and how one overcomes her challenges. The author gives readers another heartwarming and clean romance. I completely enjoyed this romcom and yes, I did see the reveal coming a mile away but it was still a pretty amazing read. Don't miss the author's note and the audio by Patti Murin is fantastic. Loooved it!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for my advance copy for review.
Published July 11, 2023!
June 8, 2023
I'm awarding Katherine Center the Nobel Prize for a brand new category: Feel Good Literature!!!
In her Author's Note at the end of this novel, Katherine Center ably defends the love story: it's raison d'etre, its necessary place in a happier, more inclusive and progressive world, and the need for an end to the denigration of a genre labeled "romance" or "women's fiction".
AGREED!!! In fact, we should lobby for a new label: Feel Good Lit sounds perfect to me.
We DO need romance in our lives. These tumultuous love stories, as Katherine Center points out, are purveyors of HOPE - something we humans can't truly live without. I make no apologies for reading them, EVER!
Sadie Montgomery is a firecracker of a character! She refuses to admit that she ever needs help - especially from her distant, heartless father and her horrible stepmother, Lucinda! Parker, Lucinda's evil daughter, made Sadie's teenage years a living hell. Parker was one character you loved to hate!
You'd think a story about a woman needing brain surgery, then developing face blindness as a result, would be one long tear-fest. Well, think again. I laughed so hard and so often as I traveled along with brave, daffy Sadie on her slow road to recovery. I've also highlighted a colossal number of insightful, light bulb moment passages on my Kindle in this beautifully written, heart-stirring novel. Katherine Center has surpassed herself: I was impressed!
The final chapter was a parody of a Whodunnit, with the big reveal elaborately (and hilariously) dissected by Joe, Sadie and Sue. (Reminded me so much of a Three Stooges episode, that scene!)
And what a huge aw-worthy denouement! Just.... filled my heart and curled my toes! Well done!
I'm giving all the stars to this highly entertaining novel that delivered on all levels. (I highly encourage you to read the Author's Note: I cheered and was totally inspired!) My thanks to Katherine Center, MacMillan Publishers, and NetGalley for an ARC of this outstandingly fabulous novel in exchange for an honest review! It was my ABSOLUTE, LAUGH-OUT-LOUD PLEASURE!!!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: (I tried to post this on the AUDIOBOOK VERSION, BUT NO LUCK, SO I ADDED MY AUDIOBOOK REVIEW HERE.) (jUNE 7, 2023)
Another fabulous audiobook experience. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this hilarious, edge of your seat life drama.
Do yourself a favour and listen to this "can't breathe - wet your pants - laughing so hard" audiobook.
Sadie is trying to put a brave face on a terrible diagnosis. Joe doesn't know what to make of Sadie.
It all makes for a sometimes heartbreaking, often times hilarious, whirlwind of a story - don't miss this wild but funny ride!
Do I need to say more?!! Hurry up and go listen to it!
My thanks to the author, narrator, publisher and NetGalley for an ARc of this most excellent audiobook.!
July 12, 2024
HELLO STRANGER is such a perfect "kiss on the forehead" book 🥹🥹🥹🥹
July 12, 2023
Be still my heart! This book is fantastic. Keep them coming Katherine!
July 12, 2023
3.5⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Publication date ~ July 11, 2023
Page Count ~ 336
Audio length ~ 10 hours 39 minutes
Narrator ~ Patti Murin
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ face blindness, slow burn, no steamage
Sadie is excited about some news that could change her life when she has a seizure that does change her life. She has brain surgery that results in face blindness, which doesn't bode well for her career as a portrait artist.
I fount it to be a bit on the slower side as Sadie had to try to figure out who was talking to her based on their voice and what she can recognize of something someone has worn in the past. While I'm sure this is quite disconcerting and something I never want to experience, and I know this is the main plot, but it got to be a little much for me. How many times can one person dupe her ~ and the duper was a doozie.
She has 2 possible love interests:
Joe ~ the helpful neighbor who she mistakes for a sleaze.
Dr. Addison ~ the veterinarian who tends to her beloved, Peanut.
Who will she choose? I must say I am very happy with her choice 😉
Overall, I did not love this one like I did The Bodyguard, but I still liked it well enough. There is so much love for this one from other reviewers, so go see what they have to say.
I was fortune enough to have a kindle copy and an audio copy ~ both ways were fine. The narrator did a fine job. She totally nailed a good voice for the rude bully step sister, Parker.
*Thanks to the author, Macmillan Audio, St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the audio copy and ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Publication date ~ July 11, 2023
Page Count ~ 336
Audio length ~ 10 hours 39 minutes
Narrator ~ Patti Murin
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ face blindness, slow burn, no steamage
Sadie is excited about some news that could change her life when she has a seizure that does change her life. She has brain surgery that results in face blindness, which doesn't bode well for her career as a portrait artist.
I fount it to be a bit on the slower side as Sadie had to try to figure out who was talking to her based on their voice and what she can recognize of something someone has worn in the past. While I'm sure this is quite disconcerting and something I never want to experience, and I know this is the main plot, but it got to be a little much for me. How many times can one person dupe her ~ and the duper was a doozie.
She has 2 possible love interests:
Joe ~ the helpful neighbor who she mistakes for a sleaze.
Dr. Addison ~ the veterinarian who tends to her beloved, Peanut.
Who will she choose? I must say I am very happy with her choice 😉
Overall, I did not love this one like I did The Bodyguard, but I still liked it well enough. There is so much love for this one from other reviewers, so go see what they have to say.
I was fortune enough to have a kindle copy and an audio copy ~ both ways were fine. The narrator did a fine job. She totally nailed a good voice for the rude bully step sister, Parker.
*Thanks to the author, Macmillan Audio, St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the audio copy and ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
April 19, 2023
4.5 stars
Katherine Center does it again! She delivers a warm-hearted lighter read with substance. She doesn’t shy away from dealing with tough issues, but does so with a light hand.
Sadie, a portrait artist, is left with temporary face-blindness (prosopagnosia) after a TBI and brain surgery. She has 6 weeks before a major competition where she is the finalist. She NEEDS to win, not just for the prize money but to validate her career choice to herself and her family. But how can she paint a face when she can’t see faces?
Sadie has some baggage from her past (who doesn’t?), which is challenging enough without her added troubles. I loved how she worked through her issues and showed growth throughout the book.
Meanwhile, 2 men enter her life: her new vet, who helps her dog, Peanut, through a health crisis, and Joe, a neighbor who doesn’t exactly make the best first impression. How this plays out makes for much of the humor in the story.
I love a lighter read with substance, and appreciated the author’s research into the topics she addressed.
Don’t miss the author’s note as it’s a gem! Isn’t one of the reasons we love these types of novels is for the HEA, especially if we enjoy the journey along the way? She suggests we start using the word “anticipate” instead of “predictable”, which has a negative connotation.
So, OK, I anticipated part of the ending. Did I care? Absolutely not. As she says, the clues along the way give the reader something to look forward to. I thoroughly enjoyed how the story played out. And, just to be clear, there were still a few “unpredictable” surprises. Best of all, I closed the book with a warm heart and a smile on my face. A few years ago, someone coined the phrase “Up Lit” and this is a perfect example.
*I received a digital copy for review from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
* This was a buddy read with Marialyce, so don’t miss her review!
Katherine Center does it again! She delivers a warm-hearted lighter read with substance. She doesn’t shy away from dealing with tough issues, but does so with a light hand.
Sadie, a portrait artist, is left with temporary face-blindness (prosopagnosia) after a TBI and brain surgery. She has 6 weeks before a major competition where she is the finalist. She NEEDS to win, not just for the prize money but to validate her career choice to herself and her family. But how can she paint a face when she can’t see faces?
Sadie has some baggage from her past (who doesn’t?), which is challenging enough without her added troubles. I loved how she worked through her issues and showed growth throughout the book.
Meanwhile, 2 men enter her life: her new vet, who helps her dog, Peanut, through a health crisis, and Joe, a neighbor who doesn’t exactly make the best first impression. How this plays out makes for much of the humor in the story.
I love a lighter read with substance, and appreciated the author’s research into the topics she addressed.
Don’t miss the author’s note as it’s a gem! Isn’t one of the reasons we love these types of novels is for the HEA, especially if we enjoy the journey along the way? She suggests we start using the word “anticipate” instead of “predictable”, which has a negative connotation.
So, OK, I anticipated part of the ending. Did I care? Absolutely not. As she says, the clues along the way give the reader something to look forward to. I thoroughly enjoyed how the story played out. And, just to be clear, there were still a few “unpredictable” surprises. Best of all, I closed the book with a warm heart and a smile on my face. A few years ago, someone coined the phrase “Up Lit” and this is a perfect example.
*I received a digital copy for review from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
* This was a buddy read with Marialyce, so don’t miss her review!
Read
August 29, 2023DNF - I really tried and read two more chapters, but the female main character is insufferable. I cant do it!!!!
April 1, 2024
Was it cute? As sweet as candy. 🍭
Did I devour it? Like pizza on a Friday night. 🍕
I get picky with romance, but this is romance done right! ❤️
I adored the main characters and despised the antagonists. Who knew you could like as well as dislike fictional characters so much? 🤷♀️
Peanut reminded me so much of my friend’s dog so of course I had a magnetic pull there for the best for Peanut! 🐶
Sue (the BFF) was my favorite character and I’d love to read a book about her story if the author ever chose to write one!
I will say, you have to suspend a bit of belief during a portion near the end of the book, but A+ for creativity and the boldness to try something new!
A big thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary copy of this book. Hello Stranger will be published July 11th, 2023. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 ⭐️ rounding up.
Did I devour it? Like pizza on a Friday night. 🍕
I get picky with romance, but this is romance done right! ❤️
I adored the main characters and despised the antagonists. Who knew you could like as well as dislike fictional characters so much? 🤷♀️
Peanut reminded me so much of my friend’s dog so of course I had a magnetic pull there for the best for Peanut! 🐶
Sue (the BFF) was my favorite character and I’d love to read a book about her story if the author ever chose to write one!
I will say, you have to suspend a bit of belief during a portion near the end of the book, but A+ for creativity and the boldness to try something new!
A big thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for a complimentary copy of this book. Hello Stranger will be published July 11th, 2023. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 ⭐️ rounding up.
June 28, 2023
Katherine Center never fails to delight me with her books. I love the feel-good romance and the knowledge that the book will leave me with a smile on my face. I adored her author's note at the end where she talks about the joy of reading romance novels and that is the attitude I always have when I start one of her novels.
This one is not perfect, the main character Sadie really annoyed me with her absolute iron clad insistence to not accept help from anyone. I felt like that was very immature and her growth comes pretty late in the story, but props that it does occur. I saw the twist coming from a mile away, but it was still fun and absolutely satisfying when it does.
When I first read that this book dealt with prosopagnosia (face blindness) I rolled my eyes and said "not again" because this seems to be a popular plot point these days. However, the way that Center uses it and describes it in this story made it completely plausible and was a very effective and intriguing premise. I understand it in a way that I didn't before.
Sign me up for the next Katherine Center book because I'm totally here for her thoroughly engaging and delightful stories. I listened to this one partially as an audiobook and Patti Murin's narration was wonderful for Sadie. She gives the story the exact amount of lightness and humor.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
This one is not perfect, the main character Sadie really annoyed me with her absolute iron clad insistence to not accept help from anyone. I felt like that was very immature and her growth comes pretty late in the story, but props that it does occur. I saw the twist coming from a mile away, but it was still fun and absolutely satisfying when it does.
When I first read that this book dealt with prosopagnosia (face blindness) I rolled my eyes and said "not again" because this seems to be a popular plot point these days. However, the way that Center uses it and describes it in this story made it completely plausible and was a very effective and intriguing premise. I understand it in a way that I didn't before.
Sign me up for the next Katherine Center book because I'm totally here for her thoroughly engaging and delightful stories. I listened to this one partially as an audiobook and Patti Murin's narration was wonderful for Sadie. She gives the story the exact amount of lightness and humor.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
April 29, 2023
Update - reread via audio and loved it! This book has such a special place in my heart.
It is no secret that I am a huge Kathrine Center fan. So there was very little doubt this would be any less than a five star read for me. And yet I had no idea I would love it as much as I did. From the wonderful, quirky characters to the very unique plotline, I found myself completely immersed in Sadie’s world and never wanted to leave.
First and foremost, Center creates *the* most relatable characters I have ever read. Whether the MC is a female firefighter struggling to succeed in in a male dominated profession, a thirty-year-old divorcee struggling to find her place in the world, or an executive protection agent assigned to a reclusive moviestar, I always feel as though I know the ins and outs of each of these characters. I knows what makes them tick and what demons lurk in their shadows. By the time I have finished reading, they have become the best literary friends.
Sadie is no different. From the moment she busts out a Smokey Robinson performance in the middle of the corner store, I knew Sadie was my kind of person. At every turn, I felt as I knew her. I laughed at her silly antics, cried at her struggles, and swooned right along with her as the least likely candiate became a potential love. As for Joe, well there are not enough words to express my love for his character. And let’s not forget the loveable Peanut who dare I say, eats better than I do.
Read if you like:
•unique plots
•well done love triangles
•laugh out loud dialgoue
•family drama
•swoony romance
•charming characters
If you are looking for a book that has a whole lot of humor, swoony romantic vibes, fantastic main and supporting characters, and a whole lot of heart, this is the book for you. I would give it 10 stars if I could. Somehow Center always manages to speak to my soul.
Thank you to SMP Romance and Edelweiss for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
It is no secret that I am a huge Kathrine Center fan. So there was very little doubt this would be any less than a five star read for me. And yet I had no idea I would love it as much as I did. From the wonderful, quirky characters to the very unique plotline, I found myself completely immersed in Sadie’s world and never wanted to leave.
First and foremost, Center creates *the* most relatable characters I have ever read. Whether the MC is a female firefighter struggling to succeed in in a male dominated profession, a thirty-year-old divorcee struggling to find her place in the world, or an executive protection agent assigned to a reclusive moviestar, I always feel as though I know the ins and outs of each of these characters. I knows what makes them tick and what demons lurk in their shadows. By the time I have finished reading, they have become the best literary friends.
Sadie is no different. From the moment she busts out a Smokey Robinson performance in the middle of the corner store, I knew Sadie was my kind of person. At every turn, I felt as I knew her. I laughed at her silly antics, cried at her struggles, and swooned right along with her as the least likely candiate became a potential love. As for Joe, well there are not enough words to express my love for his character. And let’s not forget the loveable Peanut who dare I say, eats better than I do.
Read if you like:
•unique plots
•well done love triangles
•laugh out loud dialgoue
•family drama
•swoony romance
•charming characters
If you are looking for a book that has a whole lot of humor, swoony romantic vibes, fantastic main and supporting characters, and a whole lot of heart, this is the book for you. I would give it 10 stars if I could. Somehow Center always manages to speak to my soul.
Thank you to SMP Romance and Edelweiss for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 2, 2023
Finally. My first Katherine Center novel.
I picked a good one, too. At least it seems I did because most readers are loving Hello Stranger right along with me.
It’s a super cute, clean romance about a young artist named Sadie who suddenly finds herself suffering from face blindness while falling in love with two different men. Poor Sadie – love is confusing enough on its own, but it’s emotional chaos when you can’t see the faces of the people you’re falling for.
It seems like I’ve been reading a lot of books lately with prosopagnosia as a literary device. And I won’t lie – when I read the synopsis for Center’s latest I thought, Again? But in this instance, it really does work. The face blindness adds weight to the storyline while also providing stumbling blocks for Sadie as she makes her way towards love.
And what I couldn't get over is the vibrancy of Center's writing. The characters, the inner feelings and musings of the protagonist … it’s all drawn so well. I felt as if I was standing right beside Sadie, munching my popcorn, an eyewitness to the action. (Side note: Center may have drawn Parker a bit too well. She’s so hateful that she's almost a caricature.)
Will someone please give me a high five for my first Katherine Center read? I feel like I need it, I’m so gosh darn happy. Hello Stranger charmed me to no end.
My sincerest appreciation to Katherine Center, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
I picked a good one, too. At least it seems I did because most readers are loving Hello Stranger right along with me.
It’s a super cute, clean romance about a young artist named Sadie who suddenly finds herself suffering from face blindness while falling in love with two different men. Poor Sadie – love is confusing enough on its own, but it’s emotional chaos when you can’t see the faces of the people you’re falling for.
It seems like I’ve been reading a lot of books lately with prosopagnosia as a literary device. And I won’t lie – when I read the synopsis for Center’s latest I thought, Again? But in this instance, it really does work. The face blindness adds weight to the storyline while also providing stumbling blocks for Sadie as she makes her way towards love.
And what I couldn't get over is the vibrancy of Center's writing. The characters, the inner feelings and musings of the protagonist … it’s all drawn so well. I felt as if I was standing right beside Sadie, munching my popcorn, an eyewitness to the action. (Side note: Center may have drawn Parker a bit too well. She’s so hateful that she's almost a caricature.)
Will someone please give me a high five for my first Katherine Center read? I feel like I need it, I’m so gosh darn happy. Hello Stranger charmed me to no end.
My sincerest appreciation to Katherine Center, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
March 4, 2023
5 amazing stars!
I have loved all of Katherine Center's books and this one is not the exception.
Our heroine is Sadie Montgomery. She is a struggling artist who paints portraits. She has recently entered a competition and she might have the chance to win 10000 dollars. This is the same competition her mother, who passed away, entered too. Sadie wants to demonstrate to her father that she can be successful in doing what she loves.
However, six weeks before the competition, she learns that she needs to have brain surgery. The surgery has minimal risk and after it, she could begin painting her portrait. What Sadie was not expecting is to stop being able to see faces. After her surgery, she develops acquire apperceptive prosopagnosia. When she realizes this, she freaks out. To make matters worse, her dog, Peanut gets sick. She takes him to the emergency vet. Dr. Addison is able to save Peanut and even without seeing his face, she falls for him. She's thrilled when he asks her out. But things can't be easy, she also meets Joe. He lives in the same building as she does. At first, she dislikes him but the more she gets to know him, the more she starts falling for him too.
What is Sadie going to do? And how is she going to win the competition without being able to see faces?
Loved it. Love Sadie and Joe. So cute together. I also loved Peanut and thankfully no John Wick harm comes to pass.
Now that Happiness for Beginners it's coming to the screen, Hello Stranger can come out as a movie too.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
I have loved all of Katherine Center's books and this one is not the exception.
Our heroine is Sadie Montgomery. She is a struggling artist who paints portraits. She has recently entered a competition and she might have the chance to win 10000 dollars. This is the same competition her mother, who passed away, entered too. Sadie wants to demonstrate to her father that she can be successful in doing what she loves.
However, six weeks before the competition, she learns that she needs to have brain surgery. The surgery has minimal risk and after it, she could begin painting her portrait. What Sadie was not expecting is to stop being able to see faces. After her surgery, she develops acquire apperceptive prosopagnosia. When she realizes this, she freaks out. To make matters worse, her dog, Peanut gets sick. She takes him to the emergency vet. Dr. Addison is able to save Peanut and even without seeing his face, she falls for him. She's thrilled when he asks her out. But things can't be easy, she also meets Joe. He lives in the same building as she does. At first, she dislikes him but the more she gets to know him, the more she starts falling for him too.
What is Sadie going to do? And how is she going to win the competition without being able to see faces?
Loved it. Love Sadie and Joe. So cute together. I also loved Peanut and thankfully no John Wick harm comes to pass.
Now that Happiness for Beginners it's coming to the screen, Hello Stranger can come out as a movie too.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
June 15, 2024
katherine center ily but what was this
November 14, 2024
I have always looked forward to Katherine Center’s books, and was anxiously awaiting this one to read, as well. I have read a few mixed reviews, but this wasn’t going to stop me from being open with my own mind and heart to it.
So here I go.
Premise: Sadie Montgomery is an artist looking for her break. Things seem to be going her way when she finally gets one as a finalist in a portrait competition. It coincides with a surgery she needs. They say minor surgery. Less than a week stay in the hospital, they tell her. Nothing will change, for her they convince her.
But…That is not what Sadie wakes up to because what really happens is that she can no longer see faces.
They tell her it will be temporary. Lots of people deal with this, they say to her.
They sure do to tell her a lot of things, don’t they?
As Sadie attempts to cope and hang on to her artistic dreams – she finds solace in her 14-year-old dog, Peanut. Thank goodness for dogs! At least she can see animal faces!
When Peanut gets ill, she rushes him to the vet where she meets Dr. Oliver Addison. And well, what should occur but…
Romance perhaps?
But then there is her obnoxious neighbor Joe, who might become her friend.
Or…Could there be something more here?
Swoon-worthy?
Come on, aren’t we in the mood for this after a few psychological thrillers?
Yes! We are!
Sassy and uplifting, too.
This is a heart-tugging tale that takes readers into the life of a struggling artist, trying to juggle life after a life-changing complication after surgery. Who with her loyal companion, who needs some emergency care, as well, gets some attention, too.
The writing is engaging.
The characters are layered, supportive and patient.
The plot centers on family, friendship, self-discovery, healing, taking chances, growth, revelations, romance, new beginnings, and living with prosopagnosia (face blindness).
It wasn’t perfect… but, I enjoyed being carried away. I think you will, too.
So here I go.
Premise: Sadie Montgomery is an artist looking for her break. Things seem to be going her way when she finally gets one as a finalist in a portrait competition. It coincides with a surgery she needs. They say minor surgery. Less than a week stay in the hospital, they tell her. Nothing will change, for her they convince her.
But…That is not what Sadie wakes up to because what really happens is that she can no longer see faces.
They tell her it will be temporary. Lots of people deal with this, they say to her.
They sure do to tell her a lot of things, don’t they?
As Sadie attempts to cope and hang on to her artistic dreams – she finds solace in her 14-year-old dog, Peanut. Thank goodness for dogs! At least she can see animal faces!
When Peanut gets ill, she rushes him to the vet where she meets Dr. Oliver Addison. And well, what should occur but…
Romance perhaps?
But then there is her obnoxious neighbor Joe, who might become her friend.
Or…Could there be something more here?
Swoon-worthy?
Come on, aren’t we in the mood for this after a few psychological thrillers?
Yes! We are!
Sassy and uplifting, too.
This is a heart-tugging tale that takes readers into the life of a struggling artist, trying to juggle life after a life-changing complication after surgery. Who with her loyal companion, who needs some emergency care, as well, gets some attention, too.
The writing is engaging.
The characters are layered, supportive and patient.
The plot centers on family, friendship, self-discovery, healing, taking chances, growth, revelations, romance, new beginnings, and living with prosopagnosia (face blindness).
It wasn’t perfect… but, I enjoyed being carried away. I think you will, too.
January 25, 2023
I'm so bummed to be writing a negative review of a book that I was thrilled to receive an ARC of (I even gasped when I saw it was available). After loving Center's The Bodyguard last year, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Hello Stranger, but it left me frustrated and rolling my eyes by the end rather than wanting more.
Center is great at writing unexpected romance stories. In Hello Stranger, Sadie has necessary brain surgery that leaves her with temporary (hopefully) face blindness while her brain heals. The problem is that she's also a portrait artist about to participate in an important competition, made nearly impossible by her inability to process faces.
This was all interesting to me, though I had a personal struggle with the face blindness because I realized it made me feel like everything was fuzzy all the time as I was sort of imagining this story playing out in my head. That felt more like a me problem than the book's problem, though, so I didn't mind it much.
Quickly, though, I found a lot of this story very grating. Sadie has this capital-T Terrible family that I found pretty ridiculous. Her best friend is also a little obnoxious in that she keeps doing things Sadie doesn't like but it's written off. Then Sadie has these competing love interests: a vet who she acts like she has a deep, emotional connection with even though they've only met a couple times while he was treating her dog and then a guy named Joe who lives in her building and is apparently perfect except she heard him being a major jerk on the phone one time in the elevator.
The dueling romances felt pretty ridiculous and over-the-top to me—Sadie truly spends no time with the vet, so why should we care about him, and why would it be such a big deal when she finds herself more attracted to Joe? It was also pretty obvious to me from the beginning that the two men were in fact one and the same, which all made it more annoying to have to continue plodding along until these dummies figured it out. This only became further annoying when they did figure it out and there was all this explanation of how that seems unbelievable but actually, it totally makes sense! It felt like Center was already defending herself from criticism by saying, "See? Even these characters know this is dumb, but it happened anyway!"
I also found Sadie to be frustrating on her own. She has this family she hates, but when her Evil Stepsister tells her she loves to play the victim, I kind of agreed. Sure, the stepsister was unnecessarily terrible (she bullied another girl so much the girl attempted suicide and then blamed it all on Sadie), but luckily the bullied girl appears OUT OF NOWHERE to be like, "Nope, it was actually Parker (Evil Stepsister), Sadie is perfect." !!!! Full nonsense by the end of this book.
All right, writing this is now making me angry. Suffice it to say that I found this book pretty obnoxious by the end, which mostly just really bummed me out.
Center is great at writing unexpected romance stories. In Hello Stranger, Sadie has necessary brain surgery that leaves her with temporary (hopefully) face blindness while her brain heals. The problem is that she's also a portrait artist about to participate in an important competition, made nearly impossible by her inability to process faces.
This was all interesting to me, though I had a personal struggle with the face blindness because I realized it made me feel like everything was fuzzy all the time as I was sort of imagining this story playing out in my head. That felt more like a me problem than the book's problem, though, so I didn't mind it much.
Quickly, though, I found a lot of this story very grating. Sadie has this capital-T Terrible family that I found pretty ridiculous. Her best friend is also a little obnoxious in that she keeps doing things Sadie doesn't like but it's written off. Then Sadie has these competing love interests: a vet who she acts like she has a deep, emotional connection with even though they've only met a couple times while he was treating her dog and then a guy named Joe who lives in her building and is apparently perfect except she heard him being a major jerk on the phone one time in the elevator.
The dueling romances felt pretty ridiculous and over-the-top to me—Sadie truly spends no time with the vet, so why should we care about him, and why would it be such a big deal when she finds herself more attracted to Joe? It was also pretty obvious to me from the beginning that the two men were in fact one and the same, which all made it more annoying to have to continue plodding along until these dummies figured it out. This only became further annoying when they did figure it out and there was all this explanation of how that seems unbelievable but actually, it totally makes sense! It felt like Center was already defending herself from criticism by saying, "See? Even these characters know this is dumb, but it happened anyway!"
I also found Sadie to be frustrating on her own. She has this family she hates, but when her Evil Stepsister tells her she loves to play the victim, I kind of agreed. Sure, the stepsister was unnecessarily terrible (she bullied another girl so much the girl attempted suicide and then blamed it all on Sadie), but luckily the bullied girl appears OUT OF NOWHERE to be like, "Nope, it was actually Parker (Evil Stepsister), Sadie is perfect." !!!! Full nonsense by the end of this book.
All right, writing this is now making me angry. Suffice it to say that I found this book pretty obnoxious by the end, which mostly just really bummed me out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
In a Nutshell: A contemporary romance-drama featuring a FMC with an unusual medical issue. Good characters though a tad too peppy and/or self-centred at times. Interesting use of the medical diagnosis. Most of the book was great as per the genre, with a good balance of rom and com. But the final quarter had too farfetched a situation. Still, not a bad option, especially considering the kind of plots we usually get in this genre.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
I am no longer an enthusiastic romance reader, but some books just appeal to my heart by having something different in their blurb. In this case, it was the diagnosis of face blindness that caught my eye. For the most part, the book went fairly well. But there’s a slight twist towards the end, which wasn’t convincing to me.
Bookish Yays:
😶 The use of prosopagnosia aka face blindness in the plot. Quite a novelty (at least for me; I’ve never read it in a book before.)
😶 A balanced plot, where rom and com share space with personal drama and humour. Even with the flaws, the book offers light entertainment.
😶 Funny interactions and many banter-style conversations.
😶 Spice-free romance. Nothing more than kisses; all further scenes are closed-door. Of the two potential love interests, there’s insta love/lust in one case, but it can be medically excused, I guess.
😶 The author’s note, talking not just about face blindness and a list of resources where we can learn more, but also about why romance and romcom as a genre are as important as other genres. A bit aggressive in tone, but probably for the right reasons. Even though I am not a prolific romance reader anymore, I do agree with her, especially when she complains about reviewers dismissing romances by calling them “predictable.” (Funnily, the only other book I have read by this author also has a vehement parting note justifying the value of romcoms. I’m curious to see if every book of hers contains this.)
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🎭 Some of the secondary characters such as the Kims and the delectable Dr. Nicole are amazing. Can’t forget Peanut the dog! Sadie’s family makes up the negative character list. I love that there was no redemption arc for one negative character – they are bad, and that’s that. However, there are no layers to the characters. Most of them, whether likeable or not, sound monotonous throughout.
Bookish Nays:
😷 Sadie has limited positive attributes, one of which is her love for her pet dog Peanut. She is whiny and judgemental and constantly feels sorry for herself, never looking at anything that is going well. Even before the accident, she doesn’t recognise most of her neighbours and even forgets who helped her on two occasions. Post the diagnosis, it gets even worse as she refuses to accept assistance or to tell anyone about her condition, that too for all the wrong reasons. She also insists on calling a person by an incorrect name because “it suits them better”. I did feel a little sorry for her, but not as much as I should have. She made for an annoying FMC, especially in a romcom.
😷 The MMCs are allotted enough book-boyfriend attributes, but they still feel a bit flat. I don’t know if this is partly because Sadie rambles so much that we don’t see many key details about the two men beyond their attractiveness. (Yup, even with the face blindness, Sadie finds enough body parts and character traits to gush about! 🤦🏻♀️)
😷 Too many inner monologues, often sounding defensive and/or belligerent.
😷 Too much miscommunication, thanks to Sadie’s adamancy about keeping her face blindness a secret.
😷 Overly convenient. All characters are connected to each other in some way or the other, either through a common location or through their past. Such a small world?
😷 The big reveal at the end, which, I think, will be the deciding factor in your enjoyment of this novel. You will either love it or you won't. I admit, it did catch me by surprise, but despite the lengthy explanation in the final chapter trying to convince us of the whats and hows and whys, the reveal leaves certain plot gaps and inconsistencies.
😷 On that note, the lengthy explanation in the final chapter trying to convince us of the whats and hows and whys. I can’t stand infodumps even in genres such as mysteries where they are ubiquitous. No way will I enjoy an infodump in a romcom! Infodumps are lazy and boring – period. A clever book doesn’t need an infodump to make readers understand what happened.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hours 39 mins, is narrated by Patti Murin. She truly rocks the performance! Even with so many characters and conversations, Murin ensures that each character’s individuality is maintained. The best was the snarky voice she used for Parker. You could actually feel the menace in her tone. If you want to try this book, I’d definitely recommend the audio version. The author’s note is narrated by the author herself.
Overall, this is a pretty good book, with many of the shortcomings being standard features of the genre than a problem of the book itself. However, the problematic lead character, that final reveal and the extended infodump dampened my overall enjoyment level. I would have expected some plot points to be medically implausible, but the flaws are more behavioural than medical.
This is only my second book by this acclaimed romance writer. The first book I read, ‘The Rom-Commers’ had also offered a similar experience, with an outstanding first half and a slightly disappointing second half. That said, I wouldn’t mind reading more of her works because even when she gets me to roll my eyes, she makes sure that I am invested in the plot while doing so.
Recommended to fans of the genre and the author. To be read with all disbelief suspended and all logic kept aside, which I struggle to do.
2.75 stars. (If the end were stronger, this would have earned at least 3.75 stars.)
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing the DRC of “Hello Stranger” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Twenty-year-old Sadie is poised for the big change in her lacklustre career as a portrait artist: she has placed in the top ten finalists in one of the biggest portrait competitions. Unfortunately, life brings to her another big change, a catastrophic one. Just a few weeks before the finals, she has to undergo an emergency medical procedure and subsequently, gets diagnosed with a “possibly-temporary-but-we-can’t-say-for-sure” condition commonly known as face blindness. The rest of her eyesight is fine, but every face she sees is a jumbled mess of features. Now Sadie has to cope with this devastating change in her facial-recognition abilities, thereby jeopardising her career as a portrait artist. After the lack of support from her family and some other personal issues, Sadie ends up feeling attracted to two men. Imagine falling in love at first sight when you literally have impaired sight! Is she really in love (lust?) with two guys, or is her post-surgery brain playing further tricks of perception on her, or is her mind just reacting to all the stress?
The story comes to us in Sadie’s first-person perspective.
I am no longer an enthusiastic romance reader, but some books just appeal to my heart by having something different in their blurb. In this case, it was the diagnosis of face blindness that caught my eye. For the most part, the book went fairly well. But there’s a slight twist towards the end, which wasn’t convincing to me.
Bookish Yays:
😶 The use of prosopagnosia aka face blindness in the plot. Quite a novelty (at least for me; I’ve never read it in a book before.)
😶 A balanced plot, where rom and com share space with personal drama and humour. Even with the flaws, the book offers light entertainment.
😶 Funny interactions and many banter-style conversations.
😶 Spice-free romance. Nothing more than kisses; all further scenes are closed-door. Of the two potential love interests, there’s insta love/lust in one case, but it can be medically excused, I guess.
😶 The author’s note, talking not just about face blindness and a list of resources where we can learn more, but also about why romance and romcom as a genre are as important as other genres. A bit aggressive in tone, but probably for the right reasons. Even though I am not a prolific romance reader anymore, I do agree with her, especially when she complains about reviewers dismissing romances by calling them “predictable.” (Funnily, the only other book I have read by this author also has a vehement parting note justifying the value of romcoms. I’m curious to see if every book of hers contains this.)
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🎭 Some of the secondary characters such as the Kims and the delectable Dr. Nicole are amazing. Can’t forget Peanut the dog! Sadie’s family makes up the negative character list. I love that there was no redemption arc for one negative character – they are bad, and that’s that. However, there are no layers to the characters. Most of them, whether likeable or not, sound monotonous throughout.
Bookish Nays:
😷 Sadie has limited positive attributes, one of which is her love for her pet dog Peanut. She is whiny and judgemental and constantly feels sorry for herself, never looking at anything that is going well. Even before the accident, she doesn’t recognise most of her neighbours and even forgets who helped her on two occasions. Post the diagnosis, it gets even worse as she refuses to accept assistance or to tell anyone about her condition, that too for all the wrong reasons. She also insists on calling a person by an incorrect name because “it suits them better”. I did feel a little sorry for her, but not as much as I should have. She made for an annoying FMC, especially in a romcom.
😷 The MMCs are allotted enough book-boyfriend attributes, but they still feel a bit flat. I don’t know if this is partly because Sadie rambles so much that we don’t see many key details about the two men beyond their attractiveness. (Yup, even with the face blindness, Sadie finds enough body parts and character traits to gush about! 🤦🏻♀️)
😷 Too many inner monologues, often sounding defensive and/or belligerent.
😷 Too much miscommunication, thanks to Sadie’s adamancy about keeping her face blindness a secret.
😷 Overly convenient. All characters are connected to each other in some way or the other, either through a common location or through their past. Such a small world?
😷 The big reveal at the end, which, I think, will be the deciding factor in your enjoyment of this novel. You will either love it or you won't. I admit, it did catch me by surprise, but despite the lengthy explanation in the final chapter trying to convince us of the whats and hows and whys, the reveal leaves certain plot gaps and inconsistencies.
😷 On that note, the lengthy explanation in the final chapter trying to convince us of the whats and hows and whys. I can’t stand infodumps even in genres such as mysteries where they are ubiquitous. No way will I enjoy an infodump in a romcom! Infodumps are lazy and boring – period. A clever book doesn’t need an infodump to make readers understand what happened.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hours 39 mins, is narrated by Patti Murin. She truly rocks the performance! Even with so many characters and conversations, Murin ensures that each character’s individuality is maintained. The best was the snarky voice she used for Parker. You could actually feel the menace in her tone. If you want to try this book, I’d definitely recommend the audio version. The author’s note is narrated by the author herself.
Overall, this is a pretty good book, with many of the shortcomings being standard features of the genre than a problem of the book itself. However, the problematic lead character, that final reveal and the extended infodump dampened my overall enjoyment level. I would have expected some plot points to be medically implausible, but the flaws are more behavioural than medical.
This is only my second book by this acclaimed romance writer. The first book I read, ‘The Rom-Commers’ had also offered a similar experience, with an outstanding first half and a slightly disappointing second half. That said, I wouldn’t mind reading more of her works because even when she gets me to roll my eyes, she makes sure that I am invested in the plot while doing so.
Recommended to fans of the genre and the author. To be read with all disbelief suspended and all logic kept aside, which I struggle to do.
2.75 stars. (If the end were stronger, this would have earned at least 3.75 stars.)
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing the DRC of “Hello Stranger” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
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