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In the Hello and in the Goodbye
Through distance and pixelated screens, a struggling couple fights to give their relationship a second chance with a series of virtual dates.
Colm and Evie never made sense on paper. She’s like a comforting pumpkin spice latte. He’s a straightforward large black coffee. Despite their differences, their love was like a fairy tale. Until a tragic accident drives an emotional wedge between them. Now, Evie’s smile no longer reaches her eyes and Colm’s seat beside her often sits empty.
When Colm accepts the opportunity to teach in Costa Rica for sixty days, their relationship seems doomed. Unwilling to say goodbye for good, Colm proposes an experiment to Evie. They agree to plan a series of elaborate virtual dates to bridge the chasm of distance between them. Will their experiment be enough to find their way back to each other again, or do second chances only exist in romance novels…and not in real life?
Colm and Evie never made sense on paper. She’s like a comforting pumpkin spice latte. He’s a straightforward large black coffee. Despite their differences, their love was like a fairy tale. Until a tragic accident drives an emotional wedge between them. Now, Evie’s smile no longer reaches her eyes and Colm’s seat beside her often sits empty.
When Colm accepts the opportunity to teach in Costa Rica for sixty days, their relationship seems doomed. Unwilling to say goodbye for good, Colm proposes an experiment to Evie. They agree to plan a series of elaborate virtual dates to bridge the chasm of distance between them. Will their experiment be enough to find their way back to each other again, or do second chances only exist in romance novels…and not in real life?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2024
8 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Whitney
10 books89 followersWith a name like Melissa Whitney she had two choices become a Real Housewife or a romance author. Sorry Andy Cohen, she's chose romance!
A Jane Austen fangirl, Melissa hails from Western New York, but currently lives in Southern California with her husband and rescue pugs. When she's not brewing the perfect cup of tea, hunting for a delicious pastry, or traveling with her husband, she's writing swoony and steamy romance novels.
Melissa explores themes of disability, mental health, trauma, grief/loss, and family in her emotionally heartfelt and comedic stories. She often says, "Life isn't a romcom nor a high drama. It's somewhere in-between and so are my stories." As a legally blind woman and trauma survivor, Melissa taps into her own lived experience and her masters in social work to craft thoughtful/sensitive stories that delve into deeper themes, while still offering the swoon, steam, and humor that make us fall in love with a good romance.
A Jane Austen fangirl, Melissa hails from Western New York, but currently lives in Southern California with her husband and rescue pugs. When she's not brewing the perfect cup of tea, hunting for a delicious pastry, or traveling with her husband, she's writing swoony and steamy romance novels.
Melissa explores themes of disability, mental health, trauma, grief/loss, and family in her emotionally heartfelt and comedic stories. She often says, "Life isn't a romcom nor a high drama. It's somewhere in-between and so are my stories." As a legally blind woman and trauma survivor, Melissa taps into her own lived experience and her masters in social work to craft thoughtful/sensitive stories that delve into deeper themes, while still offering the swoon, steam, and humor that make us fall in love with a good romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
April 28, 2024
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Second Chance Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Relationship in Peril
- Long Distance Relationship
- Grief, Loss & Healing
- Found Family
- Autism Representation
- Virtual Dates
In the Hello and in the Goodbye is a wonderful, emotional read. It is one of the most beautifully written stories I've read this year. This story is told in dual timelines -- In the Hello [past] and In the Goodby [present]. In the Hello, Colm and Evie meet in a coffee shop. They are complete opposites who are not expected to work as a couple—Colm is a little grumpy and doesn't speak much, while Evie is a talkative ray of sunshine. They have a wonderful romance and have so much love for each other. In the Goodbye, they find themselves growing apart, and the future of their relationship is unclear. Colm and Evie are forced to deal with what happens when trying to maintain a relationship during life's unexpected challenges. This story follows them as they navigate love, loss, grief, heartbreak, distance, growth, and healing.
I adored this story. The characters are well-developed, mostly likable, and relatable. This story has so much depth and elicits so many emotions. I was rooting for Colm and Evie and was invested in their relationship. I appreciate the character diversity and representation of autism. Overall, this is a raw and heartfelt story that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Melissa Whitney and Happily Booked PR for an eARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Second Chance Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Relationship in Peril
- Long Distance Relationship
- Grief, Loss & Healing
- Found Family
- Autism Representation
- Virtual Dates
In the Hello and in the Goodbye is a wonderful, emotional read. It is one of the most beautifully written stories I've read this year. This story is told in dual timelines -- In the Hello [past] and In the Goodby [present]. In the Hello, Colm and Evie meet in a coffee shop. They are complete opposites who are not expected to work as a couple—Colm is a little grumpy and doesn't speak much, while Evie is a talkative ray of sunshine. They have a wonderful romance and have so much love for each other. In the Goodbye, they find themselves growing apart, and the future of their relationship is unclear. Colm and Evie are forced to deal with what happens when trying to maintain a relationship during life's unexpected challenges. This story follows them as they navigate love, loss, grief, heartbreak, distance, growth, and healing.
I adored this story. The characters are well-developed, mostly likable, and relatable. This story has so much depth and elicits so many emotions. I was rooting for Colm and Evie and was invested in their relationship. I appreciate the character diversity and representation of autism. Overall, this is a raw and heartfelt story that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Melissa Whitney and Happily Booked PR for an eARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
June 16, 2024
This book had NO BUSINESS being this good!!
This was such a beautiful story showing a couple falling in love, and rediscovering how to fall in love again!
I don’t know if I’ve ever really read a book that was so realistic in a couple actually talking through and working through their problems!
Also I just loved the characters! I loved the both dual timeframe and dual POV aspects.
The representation of neurodivergent behaviors as well as being on the spectrum was so well done and represented and so refreshing to find in a book
I honestly couldn’t say enough good things! This was another book that gave you those fluffy romantic feelings while also tackling real issues and watching the couple grow!
I just loved everything about this and I ate it up!! The audiobook was FANTASTIC! Harlow Wilde slayed that audio!
This was such a beautiful story showing a couple falling in love, and rediscovering how to fall in love again!
I don’t know if I’ve ever really read a book that was so realistic in a couple actually talking through and working through their problems!
Also I just loved the characters! I loved the both dual timeframe and dual POV aspects.
The representation of neurodivergent behaviors as well as being on the spectrum was so well done and represented and so refreshing to find in a book
I honestly couldn’t say enough good things! This was another book that gave you those fluffy romantic feelings while also tackling real issues and watching the couple grow!
I just loved everything about this and I ate it up!! The audiobook was FANTASTIC! Harlow Wilde slayed that audio!
April 7, 2024
I'm sorry... debut novel?! One would never know. This story has so much love in it you just want to soak it all up in its entirety.
It's written beautifully, with such grace and care. I just.. frankly am I awe and can't put my feelings into words.
This book reads like a ballad, sentimental, romantic and emotionally evocative. It brought feelings out of me I didn't know existed. Melissa didn't just put words to paper, she created a beautifully intricate love story and painted it full of bright colors and emotion.
Harlow Wilde, what a voice! While Melissa was the composer of this, your performance truly helped it come to life. As an avid audiobook reader I hope to listen to many more books with you as the narrator.
Lastly, as a Mom of a neurodivergent daughter, I truly value the representation of it in this book. When my daughter gets older, I hope she has many book options when it comes to reading about people like her.
It's written beautifully, with such grace and care. I just.. frankly am I awe and can't put my feelings into words.
This book reads like a ballad, sentimental, romantic and emotionally evocative. It brought feelings out of me I didn't know existed. Melissa didn't just put words to paper, she created a beautifully intricate love story and painted it full of bright colors and emotion.
Harlow Wilde, what a voice! While Melissa was the composer of this, your performance truly helped it come to life. As an avid audiobook reader I hope to listen to many more books with you as the narrator.
Lastly, as a Mom of a neurodivergent daughter, I truly value the representation of it in this book. When my daughter gets older, I hope she has many book options when it comes to reading about people like her.
July 16, 2024
This was a beautiful story for a debut novel. It pulled on your heartstrings and emotional feelings and made you smile and feel for these characters. I love Evie and Colm together, both opposite but work well together. I will mention there is an element of lack of communication in this that I enjoyed. Due to hardships and grief, both characters lose their way of speaking to each other and started shutting the issues out. But I loved the resolution. I loved
we got to see them lost in the present and work together to resolve it, which made my heart melt. How they met and tried online dating to the intimate, vulnerable moments was brilliant. Enjoyed the audiobook narration by Harlow Wilde.
If you love:
🔹Opposites Attract
🔹Second Chance
🔹Long Distance
🔹Past and Present
🔹Lack Of Communication
🔹Intimate Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Contemporary Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 4mins
Narrators: Harlow Wilde - Solo
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Meet Cute, Opposites Attract, Second Chance, Long Distance, Lack Of Communication, Asperges Rep, Jealousy, Past and Present, FMC Social Worker, MMC Teacher, MMC Vegetarian, Vomiting, Miscarriage, Car Accident, Cursing, Third Person, Debut Novel, Sexual Content and Aftercare.
Mentions: Death Of Parent
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
we got to see them lost in the present and work together to resolve it, which made my heart melt. How they met and tried online dating to the intimate, vulnerable moments was brilliant. Enjoyed the audiobook narration by Harlow Wilde.
If you love:
🔹Opposites Attract
🔹Second Chance
🔹Long Distance
🔹Past and Present
🔹Lack Of Communication
🔹Intimate Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Contemporary Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 4mins
Narrators: Harlow Wilde - Solo
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Meet Cute, Opposites Attract, Second Chance, Long Distance, Lack Of Communication, Asperges Rep, Jealousy, Past and Present, FMC Social Worker, MMC Teacher, MMC Vegetarian, Vomiting, Miscarriage, Car Accident, Cursing, Third Person, Debut Novel, Sexual Content and Aftercare.
Mentions: Death Of Parent
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
April 9, 2024
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for the arc!
4.25 stars
This was really good! I enjoyed the friend group in the story the most, though the romance between Colm and Evie was done well as well. I liked the concept of a long-distance relationship fix, and watching Evie and Colm find each other again through that medium; it's not something I've read before! I liked the dual timeline, and it was very necessary to the telling of the story, as much of what is going on in the present in the story is based on what happened in the past. I didn't love a lot of the further past scenes (the 4 - 3 years) as I thought the chemistry seemed kind of forced and odd, but the present scenes and 1 year past scenes completely made up for them. Overall, I would recommend this book, but definitely check trigger warnings before reading (miscarriage, death of a parent, depression, and more).
4.25 stars
This was really good! I enjoyed the friend group in the story the most, though the romance between Colm and Evie was done well as well. I liked the concept of a long-distance relationship fix, and watching Evie and Colm find each other again through that medium; it's not something I've read before! I liked the dual timeline, and it was very necessary to the telling of the story, as much of what is going on in the present in the story is based on what happened in the past. I didn't love a lot of the further past scenes (the 4 - 3 years) as I thought the chemistry seemed kind of forced and odd, but the present scenes and 1 year past scenes completely made up for them. Overall, I would recommend this book, but definitely check trigger warnings before reading (miscarriage, death of a parent, depression, and more).
January 19, 2024
I received this book as an Alpha reader, and loved it! The book has a lot of heart as well as a lot of angst. I love that it has dual timelines, and it’s clear which timeline we are in for each chapter. I love the autism representation and I think the author did a fantastic job of writing a person with autism without being condescending or patronizing. This book is funny but also has a lot of pain, so it made me laugh and feel all the things from page to page. Melissa Whitney has a lifetime reader in me!
April 2, 2024
A heart-warming second-chance love story with passion, grief, and the struggles of reality meeting expectations.
Tropes:
🩵Long-Distance
🩵Second-Chance
🩵Grief & Loss
🩵Extrovert meets Introvert
Overall Thoughts:
4/5 stars- This book explores the different stages of a relationship from different time stamps an the book goes on. Past meets present to display the challenges, excitements, and tribulations of a relationship. Our main characters, Evie and Colm, meet in a small cafe where Evie works. We learn that something over time has caused them to drift, but it’s not revealed until later what this may be. When Colm is offered the chance to teach for the Summer in Costa Rica, he takes the opportunity to get away, abandoning his relationship struggles on the homefront. Though the two months he is away, the couple searches to find if they still have the emotions that connected them in the start of their relationship.
This book took me through many emotions, and I found myself captivated throughout the entire read. I would recommend this as a read to a friend who wanted a book to stir up some emotions!
Main Review Points:
The characters. I found that it was easy to relate to Evie and her insecurities of loss. Throughout the book, Evie struggles with feeling like her partner is pulling away from her until he is no longer present in the relationship. This is a majorly relatable insecurity for myself, so it was thought-provoking to see a main character go through this same dilemma. While I felt myself empathizing for Evie, I found that it was hard to understand the basis of their relationship which seemed a little unrealistic as the novel went on. Though the two had faced some monumental challenges surrounding grief, loss, and misunderstanding, I found that I was disappointed with the “happy-ending” this book provided as I was frustrated with the characters for not truly working through their issues. It seemed as if Colm and Evie rushed through their “make up” because they both so desperately wanted to be in a relationship together that worked, but it seems unrealistic to me that they got through these issues in 5 or 6 “date Facetime calls.”
The style of writing. Oftentimes when books are written in third person, it is hard for me to connect to the main characters as I’m not inside their head. However, @melissawhitney has a writing style throughout this novel that allowed me to see inside each character even though they were not “narrating.” With thoughts italicized, it was easy to understand the voices of each character which created, although sometimes infuriating, a strong emotional connection to Colm and Evie.
Representation. The representation of Colm being on the spectrum was thoughtful, caring, accurate to one’s experienced, and well-researched. It’s not often that there are novels in which representation of special abilities is brought up, and this book did such a beautiful job of integrating the representation in a natural and respectful way.
Overall Summary:
Thank you @happilybookedpr and @melissawhitney for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I am honored to have been provided the opportunity to review this book.
Challenges in a relationship hit a make or break point, and we must decide how we are going to face them. This review is coming at you fresh after my read, and boy was I left with lots of thoughts! While relatable and lovely, this book challenged a lot of ideas and values I hold in relationships. As we witness the characters develop over a span of 5 years, we see how a beautiful, honey-moon period, developing relationship can be met with unexpected challenges which can shift the trajectory of a relationship if one allows it to. With influences such as friends, work, and family all around the couple, this book immaculately displays the development of two people over time as individuals, and as a pair.
Tropes:
🩵Long-Distance
🩵Second-Chance
🩵Grief & Loss
🩵Extrovert meets Introvert
Overall Thoughts:
4/5 stars- This book explores the different stages of a relationship from different time stamps an the book goes on. Past meets present to display the challenges, excitements, and tribulations of a relationship. Our main characters, Evie and Colm, meet in a small cafe where Evie works. We learn that something over time has caused them to drift, but it’s not revealed until later what this may be. When Colm is offered the chance to teach for the Summer in Costa Rica, he takes the opportunity to get away, abandoning his relationship struggles on the homefront. Though the two months he is away, the couple searches to find if they still have the emotions that connected them in the start of their relationship.
This book took me through many emotions, and I found myself captivated throughout the entire read. I would recommend this as a read to a friend who wanted a book to stir up some emotions!
Main Review Points:
The characters. I found that it was easy to relate to Evie and her insecurities of loss. Throughout the book, Evie struggles with feeling like her partner is pulling away from her until he is no longer present in the relationship. This is a majorly relatable insecurity for myself, so it was thought-provoking to see a main character go through this same dilemma. While I felt myself empathizing for Evie, I found that it was hard to understand the basis of their relationship which seemed a little unrealistic as the novel went on. Though the two had faced some monumental challenges surrounding grief, loss, and misunderstanding, I found that I was disappointed with the “happy-ending” this book provided as I was frustrated with the characters for not truly working through their issues. It seemed as if Colm and Evie rushed through their “make up” because they both so desperately wanted to be in a relationship together that worked, but it seems unrealistic to me that they got through these issues in 5 or 6 “date Facetime calls.”
The style of writing. Oftentimes when books are written in third person, it is hard for me to connect to the main characters as I’m not inside their head. However, @melissawhitney has a writing style throughout this novel that allowed me to see inside each character even though they were not “narrating.” With thoughts italicized, it was easy to understand the voices of each character which created, although sometimes infuriating, a strong emotional connection to Colm and Evie.
Representation. The representation of Colm being on the spectrum was thoughtful, caring, accurate to one’s experienced, and well-researched. It’s not often that there are novels in which representation of special abilities is brought up, and this book did such a beautiful job of integrating the representation in a natural and respectful way.
Overall Summary:
Thank you @happilybookedpr and @melissawhitney for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I am honored to have been provided the opportunity to review this book.
Challenges in a relationship hit a make or break point, and we must decide how we are going to face them. This review is coming at you fresh after my read, and boy was I left with lots of thoughts! While relatable and lovely, this book challenged a lot of ideas and values I hold in relationships. As we witness the characters develop over a span of 5 years, we see how a beautiful, honey-moon period, developing relationship can be met with unexpected challenges which can shift the trajectory of a relationship if one allows it to. With influences such as friends, work, and family all around the couple, this book immaculately displays the development of two people over time as individuals, and as a pair.
March 29, 2024
Oh my goodness....this book was such an emotional ride. The angst, the feels - it's sooooo good.
Colm & Evie don't make sense on paper - but oh man they work. Until they don't, and this is the story of their fight to make it right.
The POV changes between Colm & Evie and it also changes between the "beginning" and the "now". But it's done in such a way that you aren't left confused or frustrated....the author does such a great job of hooking you in. The closer you get to the "moment" - you can feel the tension and the angst just build up.
I can honestly say....I've never rooted for 2 characters more than I have for Colm & Evie. Absolutely loved the connection the author had to the autism rep in the story and I loved how she drew from her own experiences.
Amazing read!
Colm & Evie don't make sense on paper - but oh man they work. Until they don't, and this is the story of their fight to make it right.
The POV changes between Colm & Evie and it also changes between the "beginning" and the "now". But it's done in such a way that you aren't left confused or frustrated....the author does such a great job of hooking you in. The closer you get to the "moment" - you can feel the tension and the angst just build up.
I can honestly say....I've never rooted for 2 characters more than I have for Colm & Evie. Absolutely loved the connection the author had to the autism rep in the story and I loved how she drew from her own experiences.
Amazing read!
April 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Watching the characters and their dynamic change back and forth between the hello and goodbye of their relationship is such a unique, fun and captivating way to watch a relationship unfold but also be built. I really enjoyed this book and feel like I read it every free moment I had because I just needed to see what happened next. Highly recommend this book!
April 3, 2024
I found this to be a really unique read for me. I haven't really read anything like this! You have dual pov's and times which I loved. A relationship in peril and hoping the long distance can help.
I really felt for these characters. I thought Whitney did a great job with representing neurodivergence and autism. I thought the banter between the two characters was nice and there's some light spice
Would recommend!
I really felt for these characters. I thought Whitney did a great job with representing neurodivergence and autism. I thought the banter between the two characters was nice and there's some light spice
Would recommend!
April 3, 2024
ARC Review
5⭐️ 2🌶️
Thank you so much to Melissa Whitney on sending me this amazing ARC!
Colm & Evie’s love story was beautiful to behold, and definitely kept me on the edge of my seat at times. I fell in love with their interactions, and how hard they worked to make it back to each other.
As a mother of a boy on the autism spectrum, worrying about his future is something I do a lot. Will he make friends? Will he find someone to build a life with who loves him as much as I do? It’s a big game of “what if?” that flows through my mind constantly. After reading this story, I am more hopeful than ever that my son’s future is bright, that he will find his Jonathan in a best friend, and also find his Evie in who he chooses to love🫶🏼
If you love love stories, this book is for you🤍
5⭐️ 2🌶️
Thank you so much to Melissa Whitney on sending me this amazing ARC!
Colm & Evie’s love story was beautiful to behold, and definitely kept me on the edge of my seat at times. I fell in love with their interactions, and how hard they worked to make it back to each other.
As a mother of a boy on the autism spectrum, worrying about his future is something I do a lot. Will he make friends? Will he find someone to build a life with who loves him as much as I do? It’s a big game of “what if?” that flows through my mind constantly. After reading this story, I am more hopeful than ever that my son’s future is bright, that he will find his Jonathan in a best friend, and also find his Evie in who he chooses to love🫶🏼
If you love love stories, this book is for you🤍
May 14, 2024
I cried, I cried so hard! It had been a while that a book had made me cry but this one delivered. I could NOT put it down I had to see Evie's & Colm's HEA. I might've even have cheated halfway through to confirm whether or not it was a HEA ending, the not knowing was a torture. This was such a beautiful written love story of a second chance romance with great character growth.
I loved everything about it (sometimes hate/love) ; the falling in love, the heartbreak, the second-chance, the loss and navigating together through that loss. This book has a(multiple) beautiful message we can definitely all gain from,I definitely recommend this read, add it to your TBR now!
Second-chance romance
Long distance relationship/dating
Themes of grief/loss
You will shed tears or you have no soul (JOKING)
Autism rep
Multiple POV
Multiple timelines
HEA
I loved everything about it (sometimes hate/love) ; the falling in love, the heartbreak, the second-chance, the loss and navigating together through that loss. This book has a(multiple) beautiful message we can definitely all gain from,I definitely recommend this read, add it to your TBR now!
Second-chance romance
Long distance relationship/dating
Themes of grief/loss
You will shed tears or you have no soul (JOKING)
Autism rep
Multiple POV
Multiple timelines
HEA
July 8, 2024
This book is the definition of "lovely"! Not in a superficial way, but really deep down. I fell in love with the MCs, Colm and Evie, from the very first scene in the coffee shop and it only deepened. The supportive cast is wonderful, each person has a distinct individuality and there are so many layers to each relationship between all the characters that it never gets boring to explore their inner worlds.
The author manages to make the characters leap off the page, the worldbuilding has small details strewn in at just the right places to place the reader right in the middle of it without ever running the risk of "environmental overload" and the storyline, alternating between the past and present, is never confusing and links perfectly with each other.
Evie and Colm couldn't be more different in their personalities - and yet, they fit so perfectly, you'd think they're yin and yang personified. And where I usually have only exasperated eyerolls for mature characters miscommunicating because very often it feels way too juvenile for their age, Whitney pulls it off on a level that is both age-appropriate and so relatable that all it does is to pull at your heartstrings and root for the couple even more fiercely than you already have. Both Colm and Evie have rich inner worlds, memories, feelings and their own subjective interpretation of events and each other flow in naturally with external events, adding a rich deep layer to the narrative that only enhances the enjoyment of the book.
I will say one thing and this is that I knew, going in, that this was the author's debut novel and I absolutely did not expect such a book. It went above and beyond all my expectations by several miles and all I could think of throughout is how much I loved it. Story, characters and the positive and sensitive way in which the author portrays Colm, a person with ASD, really touched me so deeply. It is really well-researched and written with such deep empathy and understanding. And then there is Colm's beloved Evie, who is as much of a chatterbox as he is a mono-syllabic communicator. But they both adore and love each other deeply for the exact traits that make them different to each other. This appreciation is deep and genuine and carries them through all the difficulties to a happily ever after.
I cannot praise this book enough and am so excited to listen to the second book by the author. If you love to read books by and support authors with disabilities and love to read books with disability representation, then this should absolutely go on the very top of your TBR!
And if you listen to the audio version like I did, I am sure you'll enjoy the narrator's performance just as much.
The author manages to make the characters leap off the page, the worldbuilding has small details strewn in at just the right places to place the reader right in the middle of it without ever running the risk of "environmental overload" and the storyline, alternating between the past and present, is never confusing and links perfectly with each other.
Evie and Colm couldn't be more different in their personalities - and yet, they fit so perfectly, you'd think they're yin and yang personified. And where I usually have only exasperated eyerolls for mature characters miscommunicating because very often it feels way too juvenile for their age, Whitney pulls it off on a level that is both age-appropriate and so relatable that all it does is to pull at your heartstrings and root for the couple even more fiercely than you already have. Both Colm and Evie have rich inner worlds, memories, feelings and their own subjective interpretation of events and each other flow in naturally with external events, adding a rich deep layer to the narrative that only enhances the enjoyment of the book.
I will say one thing and this is that I knew, going in, that this was the author's debut novel and I absolutely did not expect such a book. It went above and beyond all my expectations by several miles and all I could think of throughout is how much I loved it. Story, characters and the positive and sensitive way in which the author portrays Colm, a person with ASD, really touched me so deeply. It is really well-researched and written with such deep empathy and understanding. And then there is Colm's beloved Evie, who is as much of a chatterbox as he is a mono-syllabic communicator. But they both adore and love each other deeply for the exact traits that make them different to each other. This appreciation is deep and genuine and carries them through all the difficulties to a happily ever after.
I cannot praise this book enough and am so excited to listen to the second book by the author. If you love to read books by and support authors with disabilities and love to read books with disability representation, then this should absolutely go on the very top of your TBR!
And if you listen to the audio version like I did, I am sure you'll enjoy the narrator's performance just as much.
April 17, 2024
PERFECT. LOVED IT.
(I’m so painfully lonely)
Ngl I always have issues with the past and present cuz I think I’m just stupid but I didn’t struggle with this book and I’m absolutely love it! Definitely going down as one of my favorite reads this year 🫶
The found family IS PERFECT I loved it so much 🥹 also loved the epilogue TBH I LOVED THE WHOLE BOOK 🥰
Favorite Quotes: “We’re a team.”
~ Tropes and Triggers Warnings Below ~
Recommend if you like..
~ Contemporary romance
~ Second chance
~ Relationship in peril
~ Autism rep
~ Themes of grief/loss and healing
~ Found family
~ Opposites attract
~ Long distance dating
~ Elaborate virtual dates
Off the top of my head TWs:
- Parental divorce
- Pregnancy complications
‼️ SPOILERS BELOW ‼️
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~
I had so many favorites omfg please stop scrolling if you don’t want spoilers ⁉️
~
~
~
No cuz I’m serious major spoilers 🧍♀️⁉️
~
~
~
“Your fucking father for making you think this. For planting these seeds that if you’re not perfectly content and happy people won’t want you. I love you, Evie Johnson. I want you. Not because you’re perfect. You hog the covers. You leave pots and pans soak in the sink too long. You talk through movies. You get every barista’s life story before ordering, no matter how long the line behind you is. You watch those trashy reality shows. You don’t see how fucking amazing you are. Nor how strong you are. You’re not perfect, but your perfect for me.”
TO BE LOVEDDDD IS TO BE SEEN OMFG ‼️ shit had me tearing up WHILE EATING CEREAL 😖
“Colm, I think we both have daddy issues.”
I laughed so fucking hard 🤣
“Colm wanted to be a good man but feared that he wasn’t. That he was like his father.”
No cuz every time he feared of being his father HURT SO BAD 😖 shit got me fucked up cuz like who wants to be like their dead beat parent man😖😖
(I have mommy issues)
(And a bit of daddy issues but that’s beside the point)
ALSO THE “Ok.”
Made me wanna die. I never hated OK SO MUCH???
(I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review)
(I’m so painfully lonely)
Ngl I always have issues with the past and present cuz I think I’m just stupid but I didn’t struggle with this book and I’m absolutely love it! Definitely going down as one of my favorite reads this year 🫶
The found family IS PERFECT I loved it so much 🥹 also loved the epilogue TBH I LOVED THE WHOLE BOOK 🥰
Favorite Quotes: “We’re a team.”
~ Tropes and Triggers Warnings Below ~
Recommend if you like..
~ Contemporary romance
~ Second chance
~ Relationship in peril
~ Autism rep
~ Themes of grief/loss and healing
~ Found family
~ Opposites attract
~ Long distance dating
~ Elaborate virtual dates
Off the top of my head TWs:
- Parental divorce
- Pregnancy complications
‼️ SPOILERS BELOW ‼️
~
~
I had so many favorites omfg please stop scrolling if you don’t want spoilers ⁉️
~
~
~
No cuz I’m serious major spoilers 🧍♀️⁉️
~
~
~
“Your fucking father for making you think this. For planting these seeds that if you’re not perfectly content and happy people won’t want you. I love you, Evie Johnson. I want you. Not because you’re perfect. You hog the covers. You leave pots and pans soak in the sink too long. You talk through movies. You get every barista’s life story before ordering, no matter how long the line behind you is. You watch those trashy reality shows. You don’t see how fucking amazing you are. Nor how strong you are. You’re not perfect, but your perfect for me.”
TO BE LOVEDDDD IS TO BE SEEN OMFG ‼️ shit had me tearing up WHILE EATING CEREAL 😖
“Colm, I think we both have daddy issues.”
I laughed so fucking hard 🤣
“Colm wanted to be a good man but feared that he wasn’t. That he was like his father.”
No cuz every time he feared of being his father HURT SO BAD 😖 shit got me fucked up cuz like who wants to be like their dead beat parent man😖😖
(I have mommy issues)
(And a bit of daddy issues but that’s beside the point)
ALSO THE “Ok.”
Made me wanna die. I never hated OK SO MUCH???
(I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review)
March 31, 2024
I had the pleasure of ARC reading this book. This story is a contemporary romance about Evie and Colm, a couple who are on the verge of falling apart just a Colm leaves for Costa Rica for two months to teach special ed. The timeline of the book bounces between past and present, with the past chapters called "In the hello" and the present chapters called "In the goodbye", hence the cute title.
Evie and Colm were perfect for each other. Colm has autism and doesn't talk very much, but Evie is his "little chatterbox" and he loves that about her. The past chapters are sweet, spicy, and heart warming, and they make the present chapters all the more heart breaking as they grow more distant from each other.
During the Costa Rica trip, they reach a breaking point and both agree they cannot go on living like this anymore. After a terrible twenty-four hours, Colm comes up with a plan to win Evie back, and they begin a series of virtual dates along with daily text messages of favorite memories in order to fight to get back what they lost.
During this fight to save their relationship, we learn about a tragic day they experienced the year prior, and how their lack of communication about their guilt and grief contributed to the breaking of their bond. This section of the book is really emotional and heavy, and the author did such a great job putting the reader into their perspectives and giving us a one-two gut punch.
Towards the end of the book, there was a *gasp* moment where I went from laying down comfortably to sitting straight up and stiff as I raced through the pages.
This author did a fantastic job of making me feel all the feelings. This book has humor, open-door spice, passionate romance, emotional heartbreaking loss, desperate longing, it make me feel happy and sad, anxious and elated. This book is really good and I highly recommend it to fans of happily ever after contemporary romance.
Evie and Colm were perfect for each other. Colm has autism and doesn't talk very much, but Evie is his "little chatterbox" and he loves that about her. The past chapters are sweet, spicy, and heart warming, and they make the present chapters all the more heart breaking as they grow more distant from each other.
During the Costa Rica trip, they reach a breaking point and both agree they cannot go on living like this anymore. After a terrible twenty-four hours, Colm comes up with a plan to win Evie back, and they begin a series of virtual dates along with daily text messages of favorite memories in order to fight to get back what they lost.
During this fight to save their relationship, we learn about a tragic day they experienced the year prior, and how their lack of communication about their guilt and grief contributed to the breaking of their bond. This section of the book is really emotional and heavy, and the author did such a great job putting the reader into their perspectives and giving us a one-two gut punch.
Towards the end of the book, there was a *gasp* moment where I went from laying down comfortably to sitting straight up and stiff as I raced through the pages.
This author did a fantastic job of making me feel all the feelings. This book has humor, open-door spice, passionate romance, emotional heartbreaking loss, desperate longing, it make me feel happy and sad, anxious and elated. This book is really good and I highly recommend it to fans of happily ever after contemporary romance.
May 23, 2024
In the Hello and the Goodbye by @melissa_whitneyauthor is definitely my new favorite and the book that describes me🤗
The book has a lot of heart as well as a lot of angst. I love that it has dual timelines, and it’s clear which timeline we are in for each chapter. I had fun following Colm and Evie's story - how they fell in love, everything that lead to the "break up" and then starting to date again. Communication really is THE key to everything. And there were some surprises I did not expect.
Lots of sensitive issues were handled well in this debut book with humor and grace.
Each character faces their own realistic obstacles and resolves them thoughtfully.
I enjoyed this story filled with complex people who both challenge and support each other.
As a person on the spectrum I have to say that i love the autism representation and I think she did a fantastic job of writing a person with autism without being condescending or patronizing. Many people can't write a good representation, but she did a great job doing it ♡.
This book is funny but also has a lot of pain, so it made me laugh and feel all the things from page to page! Can't wait to read more form @melissa_whitneyauthor
📚Blurb:
Through distance and pixelated screens, a struggling couple fights to give their relationship a second chance with a series of virtual dates.
Colm and Evie never made sense on paper. She’s like a comforting pumpkin spice latte. He’s a straightforward large black coffee. Despite their differences, their love was like a fairy tale. Until a tragic accident drives an emotional wedge between them. Now, Evie’s smile no longer reaches her eyes and Colm’s seat beside her often sits empty.
When Colm accepts the opportunity to teach in Costa Rica for sixty days, their relationship seems doomed. Unwilling to say goodbye for good, Colm proposes an experiment to Evie. They agree to plan a series of elaborate virtual dates to bridge the chasm of distance between them. Will their experiment be enough to find their way back to each other again, or do second chances only exist in romance novels…and not in real life?
The book has a lot of heart as well as a lot of angst. I love that it has dual timelines, and it’s clear which timeline we are in for each chapter. I had fun following Colm and Evie's story - how they fell in love, everything that lead to the "break up" and then starting to date again. Communication really is THE key to everything. And there were some surprises I did not expect.
Lots of sensitive issues were handled well in this debut book with humor and grace.
Each character faces their own realistic obstacles and resolves them thoughtfully.
I enjoyed this story filled with complex people who both challenge and support each other.
As a person on the spectrum I have to say that i love the autism representation and I think she did a fantastic job of writing a person with autism without being condescending or patronizing. Many people can't write a good representation, but she did a great job doing it ♡.
This book is funny but also has a lot of pain, so it made me laugh and feel all the things from page to page! Can't wait to read more form @melissa_whitneyauthor
📚Blurb:
Through distance and pixelated screens, a struggling couple fights to give their relationship a second chance with a series of virtual dates.
Colm and Evie never made sense on paper. She’s like a comforting pumpkin spice latte. He’s a straightforward large black coffee. Despite their differences, their love was like a fairy tale. Until a tragic accident drives an emotional wedge between them. Now, Evie’s smile no longer reaches her eyes and Colm’s seat beside her often sits empty.
When Colm accepts the opportunity to teach in Costa Rica for sixty days, their relationship seems doomed. Unwilling to say goodbye for good, Colm proposes an experiment to Evie. They agree to plan a series of elaborate virtual dates to bridge the chasm of distance between them. Will their experiment be enough to find their way back to each other again, or do second chances only exist in romance novels…and not in real life?
April 8, 2024
LOVED the MMC, didn't connect with FMC, overall amazing!
Overall: 4.5⭐
Plot: 4.5 📍
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
I DON'T THINK THERE'S SPOILERS! But just in case...
..
..
..
..
..
Truthfully, I started out really liking this story and had high hopes.
But shortly into the book, I had a really hard time connecting with Evie, our FMC. Through her challenging life experiences however, I felt she handled them, IMHO, extremely childishly for a woman in her late 20s/early 30s, especially as she and the MMC, Colm, have been in a multi-year relationship. Purposefully, shutting off communication, shutting down conversations, not addressing issues, jumping to conclusions that didn't make sense. During a major piece of the book, she never once says "I'm sorry" for her part (yes, it was two sided, but both sides should acknowledge their misdoings, intended or not). In fact, it takes her weeks to do so. She comes across more often than not as a defeatist, selfish, self-centered, despite the author's insistence that she's the opposite. I mentally nicknamed her "Little Miss Oblivious" - just in her own space and doesn't actually pay attention to what people are telling her.
Colm on the other hand, as our MMC on the spectrum, I connected very stronly with and is exactly as you expect and therefore can easy to love. If you know someone on the spectrum, high-functioning while neurodivergent, and they explain something to you - you need to take that to explicitly to heart. Literal. Exact. Nuance often isn't in their make up. So if someone says "I don't like peanut butter" they most likely only mean the stuff in the jar, but not necessarily the flavor in a pretzel bite or ice cream, or mixed with something else. You have to be aware and understand that. This is where I had such a disconnect with Evie - she just doesn't 'get it' and overlays her assumptions over his exact and literals after YEARS of being in a relationship.
One part discussing military career paths is just highly, highly inaccurate. And while only taking up a page or two of the whole story, is supposed to explain a secondary character's entire personality and trauma. The only part that was correct in that section, was how the SUCCESSFUL military marriages (the ones that don't contribute to the stratospheric-high divorce rate) make sure to always stay in contact and absolutely savor time spent together.
I did love the ending, how the reconciliation happens, when everyone finally gets their head above the clouds and starts moving forward (ie, the last 15% of the book) but I struggled to get to that point. The handful of open-door spicy scenes were very loving, sweet, mostly vanilla, and warmly passionate (vs. having any sort of k!nk).
And don't get my wrong, overall I really enjoyed the general premise, Colm's massive attempts to overcome his neruodivergency, many of the side characters were absolutely brilliant, and Ms. Whitney's writing style is absolutely superb! The plot line was very very well done and I greatly apprecaited the back and forth along the timeline of the relationship - a style similar to the Notebook. I just really struggled with the FMC's attitude and reactions to Colm, but I highly enjoyed the flow of the words, balance of dialogue vs descriptive paragraphs, plot design, etc.
While this particular FMC wasn't to my taste, I would be extremely willing to read another book by this author.
Overall, I give it a solid 3.5 Stars, easily rounding up to 4 stars because of Ms.Whitney's wonderful writing. And just because I didn't connect with Evie, doesn't mean other people will fall in love with her and see her reactions differently than mine. I'd still highly recommend this book to everyone!
I received this early copy with no compensation other than getting to discover a wonderful new author, despite not entirely loving the FMC and strongly recommend it, in return for my honest review.
Overall: 4.5⭐
Plot: 4.5 📍
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
I DON'T THINK THERE'S SPOILERS! But just in case...
..
..
..
..
..
Truthfully, I started out really liking this story and had high hopes.
But shortly into the book, I had a really hard time connecting with Evie, our FMC. Through her challenging life experiences however, I felt she handled them, IMHO, extremely childishly for a woman in her late 20s/early 30s, especially as she and the MMC, Colm, have been in a multi-year relationship. Purposefully, shutting off communication, shutting down conversations, not addressing issues, jumping to conclusions that didn't make sense. During a major piece of the book, she never once says "I'm sorry" for her part (yes, it was two sided, but both sides should acknowledge their misdoings, intended or not). In fact, it takes her weeks to do so. She comes across more often than not as a defeatist, selfish, self-centered, despite the author's insistence that she's the opposite. I mentally nicknamed her "Little Miss Oblivious" - just in her own space and doesn't actually pay attention to what people are telling her.
Colm on the other hand, as our MMC on the spectrum, I connected very stronly with and is exactly as you expect and therefore can easy to love. If you know someone on the spectrum, high-functioning while neurodivergent, and they explain something to you - you need to take that to explicitly to heart. Literal. Exact. Nuance often isn't in their make up. So if someone says "I don't like peanut butter" they most likely only mean the stuff in the jar, but not necessarily the flavor in a pretzel bite or ice cream, or mixed with something else. You have to be aware and understand that. This is where I had such a disconnect with Evie - she just doesn't 'get it' and overlays her assumptions over his exact and literals after YEARS of being in a relationship.
One part discussing military career paths is just highly, highly inaccurate. And while only taking up a page or two of the whole story, is supposed to explain a secondary character's entire personality and trauma. The only part that was correct in that section, was how the SUCCESSFUL military marriages (the ones that don't contribute to the stratospheric-high divorce rate) make sure to always stay in contact and absolutely savor time spent together.
I did love the ending, how the reconciliation happens, when everyone finally gets their head above the clouds and starts moving forward (ie, the last 15% of the book) but I struggled to get to that point. The handful of open-door spicy scenes were very loving, sweet, mostly vanilla, and warmly passionate (vs. having any sort of k!nk).
And don't get my wrong, overall I really enjoyed the general premise, Colm's massive attempts to overcome his neruodivergency, many of the side characters were absolutely brilliant, and Ms. Whitney's writing style is absolutely superb! The plot line was very very well done and I greatly apprecaited the back and forth along the timeline of the relationship - a style similar to the Notebook. I just really struggled with the FMC's attitude and reactions to Colm, but I highly enjoyed the flow of the words, balance of dialogue vs descriptive paragraphs, plot design, etc.
While this particular FMC wasn't to my taste, I would be extremely willing to read another book by this author.
Overall, I give it a solid 3.5 Stars, easily rounding up to 4 stars because of Ms.Whitney's wonderful writing. And just because I didn't connect with Evie, doesn't mean other people will fall in love with her and see her reactions differently than mine. I'd still highly recommend this book to everyone!
I received this early copy with no compensation other than getting to discover a wonderful new author, despite not entirely loving the FMC and strongly recommend it, in return for my honest review.
April 4, 2024
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! I am not a cryer but I was crying my eyes out, I felt so much! Melissa Whitney what did you do to me!!
This is the sweetest second chance romance! The takeaway for me was that communication is so important; you have to learn how your partner communicates but all those things left unsaid will fester so just let ‘em out!
Colm is a tall Thor-lookalike teacher. He’s on the spectrum, loves to plans, very literal, but most of all he loves Evie
Evie is a corgi-obsessed chatterbox and a complete ball of sunshine. She’s colourful, she’s encouraging, she loves a flavoured lattee and anything pumpkin (my girl🎃)
She kind of reminds me of like a Charlotte York/ Zooey Deschanel
Their meet cute is adorable and they are so sweet together it gives their friends diabetes (joke)
But after some devastating events, they start to drift apart and everything left unsaid creates a huge hole! It isn’t a miscommunication trope per say, it’s more like they hold guilt and fear and it just leads to giving each other space. The fear of losing each other causes them to lose each other
With good friends and a good plan, they can get back on track!
I relate to Colm so much! I have bad social anxiety too and no matter how hard I try, I often feel like I don’t fit in and it’s a lot of work! I also like my plans to go exactly how I want, I try to adapt but it feels like something is tugging my brain that this is wrong. He tries so hard and I see him being judged and overlooked. I get it! Thank you for this representation
I also feel this way for Evie; she’s silly and sweet, a child at heart, so people don’t always take her seriously.
5⭐️
1🌶️
not much spice, just sweet as pumpkin cheesecake (IYKYK)
This is the sweetest second chance romance! The takeaway for me was that communication is so important; you have to learn how your partner communicates but all those things left unsaid will fester so just let ‘em out!
Colm is a tall Thor-lookalike teacher. He’s on the spectrum, loves to plans, very literal, but most of all he loves Evie
Evie is a corgi-obsessed chatterbox and a complete ball of sunshine. She’s colourful, she’s encouraging, she loves a flavoured lattee and anything pumpkin (my girl🎃)
She kind of reminds me of like a Charlotte York/ Zooey Deschanel
Their meet cute is adorable and they are so sweet together it gives their friends diabetes (joke)
But after some devastating events, they start to drift apart and everything left unsaid creates a huge hole! It isn’t a miscommunication trope per say, it’s more like they hold guilt and fear and it just leads to giving each other space. The fear of losing each other causes them to lose each other
With good friends and a good plan, they can get back on track!
I relate to Colm so much! I have bad social anxiety too and no matter how hard I try, I often feel like I don’t fit in and it’s a lot of work! I also like my plans to go exactly how I want, I try to adapt but it feels like something is tugging my brain that this is wrong. He tries so hard and I see him being judged and overlooked. I get it! Thank you for this representation
I also feel this way for Evie; she’s silly and sweet, a child at heart, so people don’t always take her seriously.
5⭐️
1🌶️
not much spice, just sweet as pumpkin cheesecake (IYKYK)
April 19, 2024
"In The Hello and in the Goodbye" by Melissa Whitney is a heartwarming tale of love, loss, and the power of second chances. Colm and Evie are a couple who, despite their differences, share a deep and enduring love. However, when tragedy strikes, their relationship is put to the test, and they find themselves struggling to reconnect.
The novel explores the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship in the digital age, where virtual connections often replace face-to-face interactions. Colm and Evie, separated by miles and pixelated screens, embark on a journey to salvage their relationship through a series of virtual dates. As they navigate the ups and downs of their experiment, they confront their fears, insecurities, and unresolved issues, ultimately discovering that love knows no bounds.
Whitney's writing is poignant and evocative, capturing the raw emotions of her characters with honesty and depth. The reader is drawn into Colm and Evie's world, rooting for their happiness and invested in their journey towards reconciliation.
What sets "In The Hello and in the Goodbye" apart is its exploration of the complexities of modern relationships and the ways in which technology both connects and separates us. Through Colm and Evie's experiences, Whitney delves into themes of communication, forgiveness, and the importance of making time for love in a busy world.
Overall, "In The Hello and in the Goodbye" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will tug at the heartstrings of readers. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt message, this book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the enduring power of love and the possibility of finding redemption in the face of adversity.
The novel explores the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship in the digital age, where virtual connections often replace face-to-face interactions. Colm and Evie, separated by miles and pixelated screens, embark on a journey to salvage their relationship through a series of virtual dates. As they navigate the ups and downs of their experiment, they confront their fears, insecurities, and unresolved issues, ultimately discovering that love knows no bounds.
Whitney's writing is poignant and evocative, capturing the raw emotions of her characters with honesty and depth. The reader is drawn into Colm and Evie's world, rooting for their happiness and invested in their journey towards reconciliation.
What sets "In The Hello and in the Goodbye" apart is its exploration of the complexities of modern relationships and the ways in which technology both connects and separates us. Through Colm and Evie's experiences, Whitney delves into themes of communication, forgiveness, and the importance of making time for love in a busy world.
Overall, "In The Hello and in the Goodbye" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will tug at the heartstrings of readers. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt message, this book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the enduring power of love and the possibility of finding redemption in the face of adversity.
February 12, 2024
Now I have a special history with this book. I was honoured to be a BETA-Reader before this beautiful completed version of "In the Hello and in the Goodbye". Written in Dual POV this story will take you on a journey of re-finding love. The Characters are very well developed and the nice thing about it is that you can see and understand both sides. Not only can you relate to the main characters, but the cast of characters are nice as well. Mel did an excellent job in having a diverse cast and I liked how the 'disability' (I really don't like that word, but who am I) community was represented in this book as well as the LGBTQIA+ community. We have loveable characters, funny characters, a bit more dislikable characters and a lovely furry character. I enjoyed exploring the story in the past and present, without it being confusing.
There are lots of funny moments in the book that make you giggle, but there is the seriousness and looking deeper into grief and trauma as well. How do we cope with what effect certain events have on us as a person and if a traumatic event happens within a relationship, how do we find a way to grieve without misunderstanding the other or shut the other one out? A romantic story with banter and emotion in the right places. I definitely recommend this book to readers who are hopeless romantics, who enjoy a diverse cast of well-developed characters and who love a story that gives you laughter and joy as well as discussing the more painful and difficult parts of life and relationships. I loved it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you Mel for this beautiful ARC.
There are lots of funny moments in the book that make you giggle, but there is the seriousness and looking deeper into grief and trauma as well. How do we cope with what effect certain events have on us as a person and if a traumatic event happens within a relationship, how do we find a way to grieve without misunderstanding the other or shut the other one out? A romantic story with banter and emotion in the right places. I definitely recommend this book to readers who are hopeless romantics, who enjoy a diverse cast of well-developed characters and who love a story that gives you laughter and joy as well as discussing the more painful and difficult parts of life and relationships. I loved it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you Mel for this beautiful ARC.
April 5, 2024
Evie and Colm are exact opposites, yet together, they work perfectly. Evie is a happy, bubbly, chatterbox and Colm is a quiet, shy, one word answer type of guy. Despite this, they've spent four years happily together. When the unthinkable happens one night, it drives an invisible wedge between Evie and Colm, and their relationship just isn't the same anymore. When Colm leaves to spend two months in Costa Rica teaching, he suggests they use that time to help strengthen their relationship through virtual dates. Will they be able to get their second chance at love, or will this be their goodbye?
Oh my heart! What an absolutely incredible book this was. This book follows Evie and Colm, who have been in a relationship for five years, but for the last year, their relationship has been just a shell of what it used to be. They both still love each other but find it hard to communicate and show each other how much they mean to one another. It's not until they are on the verge of losing what they have forever that they begin to fight for their love again. And fight they do. I love the neurodivergent character representation with Colm and how much Evie accepts, cares, and adapts to help make sure he is comfortable in social situations. Colm also pushes himself to do things that make Evie happy even if it means stepping out of his comfort zone a bit. I absolutely love this couple. This book is what pure, unconditional love is all about. This book pulls at your heartstrings and makes you want nothing but a HEA for Evie and Colm.
Oh my heart! What an absolutely incredible book this was. This book follows Evie and Colm, who have been in a relationship for five years, but for the last year, their relationship has been just a shell of what it used to be. They both still love each other but find it hard to communicate and show each other how much they mean to one another. It's not until they are on the verge of losing what they have forever that they begin to fight for their love again. And fight they do. I love the neurodivergent character representation with Colm and how much Evie accepts, cares, and adapts to help make sure he is comfortable in social situations. Colm also pushes himself to do things that make Evie happy even if it means stepping out of his comfort zone a bit. I absolutely love this couple. This book is what pure, unconditional love is all about. This book pulls at your heartstrings and makes you want nothing but a HEA for Evie and Colm.
March 12, 2024
💕 In the Hello and the Goodbye by Melissa Whitney 💕
✨ Dual Timelines
💕 Dual POV
✨ Relationship in crises
💕 Autism rep & mental health rep
✨ Teacher rep!!
Oh gosh. I finished this book so quickly — it was a read that was easy because it was compelling, but hard because of the reality and truths portrayed.
Colm and Evie have such a rich relationship history that is slowly unwoven throughout the novel, told in alternating timelines from alternating perspectives. There were a few moments when I shell shocked and couldn’t turn the digital page fast enough to keep reading. There is trauma, loss, healing, love, and great profound friendship moments captured in these pages.
While I cannot fully identify with any character in full, there’s little bits and pieces in all of them that I felt drawn to: Evie’s chatterbox ways, Colm’s renewed passion for teaching, Josephine’s protective nature, and Jonathon’s drop-everything-to-help-a-friend. The characters — main and side — are well developed and every character feels real.
There are some gut punch moments, and I think they were well done in the storyline: there is a raw, real tenderness with which Melissa writes, and I can tell this story is a work of heart and care for her.
Need an emotional book that feels like it could destroy you at various points? This one. Absolutely this one.
Spice: 🌶️.5
Recommend. 😭😭 Yes.
Pairs well with a pumpkin spiced latte OR large black coffee, with a deliciously made pastry (bonus points if in the shape of a Corgi!) on the side.
✨ Dual Timelines
💕 Dual POV
✨ Relationship in crises
💕 Autism rep & mental health rep
✨ Teacher rep!!
Oh gosh. I finished this book so quickly — it was a read that was easy because it was compelling, but hard because of the reality and truths portrayed.
Colm and Evie have such a rich relationship history that is slowly unwoven throughout the novel, told in alternating timelines from alternating perspectives. There were a few moments when I shell shocked and couldn’t turn the digital page fast enough to keep reading. There is trauma, loss, healing, love, and great profound friendship moments captured in these pages.
While I cannot fully identify with any character in full, there’s little bits and pieces in all of them that I felt drawn to: Evie’s chatterbox ways, Colm’s renewed passion for teaching, Josephine’s protective nature, and Jonathon’s drop-everything-to-help-a-friend. The characters — main and side — are well developed and every character feels real.
There are some gut punch moments, and I think they were well done in the storyline: there is a raw, real tenderness with which Melissa writes, and I can tell this story is a work of heart and care for her.
Need an emotional book that feels like it could destroy you at various points? This one. Absolutely this one.
Spice: 🌶️.5
Recommend. 😭😭 Yes.
Pairs well with a pumpkin spiced latte OR large black coffee, with a deliciously made pastry (bonus points if in the shape of a Corgi!) on the side.
April 7, 2024
I am at a loss for words right now. I don't think I've ever read a book quite like this own. Where I experienced both extreme happiness and giddiness as well as heartache and grief. Melissa Whitney did a wonderful job at interweaving the past and present of Evie and Colm's story. It did take me one hell of a rollercoaster ride though. The amount of tears I shed reading this book were infinite. The ping pong effect of laughing while reading their falling in love one chapter and the next crying while discovering the reason behind their challenges was something alright.
Colm and Evie's story was one that needed to be told and I'm so happy that Whitney took the time to do so. It tackled aspects that not many romance books lack not to mention that it has such unique, relatable, and rich characters. The more I learned about these characters the more I felt connected to them and invested I became in their story. They each have such amazing and special qualities and stories that are worth getting to learn about.
Some of the topics the book discussed hit very close to home for me, but I must say that I was very impressed with the way Whitney went about them as well as the healing process the characters took. She did a great job at showing that not everyone reacts or needs the same things. All in all, I was very impressed and amazed with Whitney's work in this book and will definitely be recommending it anytime I get a chance.
Colm and Evie's story was one that needed to be told and I'm so happy that Whitney took the time to do so. It tackled aspects that not many romance books lack not to mention that it has such unique, relatable, and rich characters. The more I learned about these characters the more I felt connected to them and invested I became in their story. They each have such amazing and special qualities and stories that are worth getting to learn about.
Some of the topics the book discussed hit very close to home for me, but I must say that I was very impressed with the way Whitney went about them as well as the healing process the characters took. She did a great job at showing that not everyone reacts or needs the same things. All in all, I was very impressed and amazed with Whitney's work in this book and will definitely be recommending it anytime I get a chance.
March 15, 2024
Book Review
I have never read a romance story that was focused on a character with an autism representation, so, I am going to say, Melissa Whitney wrote the character of Colm Gallagher beautifully.
At the start of the book, I wasn’t quite sure if it was Evie Johnson, the female main character that had autism or if it was Colm, primarily because both characters had unique quirks to them. However, throughout their interactions together l picked up on his mannerisms.
I found the supporting characters of In the Hello and In The Goodbye each to be enjoyable or looked at with a suspicious eye. Leo and Martin, along with Jonathan stole my heart. They were such a great support system to both Evie and Colm. Josephine, Evie’s close friend and coworker, provided the antagonist of sorts when it came to her relationship with Colm.
Evie is a ray of sunshine and sees the good in all things, but it was nice to see Melissa slowly pull Evie out of the everything’s coming up roses attitude, and make her be seen as a woman who has feelings and who slowly sees how others view her.
Colm may be quiet and reserved, and although he doesn’t always finds the words, his actions speaks volumes; especially when it comes to his job as a teacher and when it comes to Evie.
Readers will find so much to relate to when reading this. Should you put it on your TBR? Absolutely.
I have never read a romance story that was focused on a character with an autism representation, so, I am going to say, Melissa Whitney wrote the character of Colm Gallagher beautifully.
At the start of the book, I wasn’t quite sure if it was Evie Johnson, the female main character that had autism or if it was Colm, primarily because both characters had unique quirks to them. However, throughout their interactions together l picked up on his mannerisms.
I found the supporting characters of In the Hello and In The Goodbye each to be enjoyable or looked at with a suspicious eye. Leo and Martin, along with Jonathan stole my heart. They were such a great support system to both Evie and Colm. Josephine, Evie’s close friend and coworker, provided the antagonist of sorts when it came to her relationship with Colm.
Evie is a ray of sunshine and sees the good in all things, but it was nice to see Melissa slowly pull Evie out of the everything’s coming up roses attitude, and make her be seen as a woman who has feelings and who slowly sees how others view her.
Colm may be quiet and reserved, and although he doesn’t always finds the words, his actions speaks volumes; especially when it comes to his job as a teacher and when it comes to Evie.
Readers will find so much to relate to when reading this. Should you put it on your TBR? Absolutely.
March 26, 2024
First of all thank you to Melissa & HappilyBookedPR for allowing me to read this ARC for review.
This book touches on some sensitive topics of loss/grief, miscarriage and the journey of both losing a relationship and finding it once more.
Our main FMC & MMC are the perfect mushy hallmark style couple for the first four years of their relationship and then multiple awful events happens which then continue to effect them going forward. Both characters do not express their true emotions and instead put on a fake happiness because they both believe the other person deserves more than their grief. Eventually this gets to them and they go on a near 24 hour break-up, Unwilling to lose Evie and understanding how that they must fight so save their love Colm has the great plan of working on their relationship with the best elaborate dates of pretty much starting from the beginning again.
This story has representation of an Autistic male MMC at first he keeps this hidden but eventually opens up and we see the adaptations that are made for both parties. Throughout the story we have dual timelines running from before the awful events to after it and then a group of timeline’s showing the fight for the relationship.
I am so happy that books are showing more than just the standard neurotypical lifestyle.
This book touches on some sensitive topics of loss/grief, miscarriage and the journey of both losing a relationship and finding it once more.
Our main FMC & MMC are the perfect mushy hallmark style couple for the first four years of their relationship and then multiple awful events happens which then continue to effect them going forward. Both characters do not express their true emotions and instead put on a fake happiness because they both believe the other person deserves more than their grief. Eventually this gets to them and they go on a near 24 hour break-up, Unwilling to lose Evie and understanding how that they must fight so save their love Colm has the great plan of working on their relationship with the best elaborate dates of pretty much starting from the beginning again.
This story has representation of an Autistic male MMC at first he keeps this hidden but eventually opens up and we see the adaptations that are made for both parties. Throughout the story we have dual timelines running from before the awful events to after it and then a group of timeline’s showing the fight for the relationship.
I am so happy that books are showing more than just the standard neurotypical lifestyle.
April 26, 2024
Colm and Evie have a fairytale love story or at least they did before they both experienced not one, but two very tragic events hours apart. It destroyed them both emotionally and not wanting to be a burden on the other they held everything in from that day forward. Now a year later, Colm has to spend two months in Costa Rica for work. Their relationship is barely holding on as it is, but will two months away from each be the deciding factor to tear them apart forever?
In The Hello, we are reliving the magic that brought Colm and Evie together. The pull of two opposites being attracted to each other and being the ultimate pair. In the Goodbye, we experience Colm and Evie figuring out where things went wrong and when they ended up pushing each other away unknowingly. They both work through their regrets of that night almost a year ago.
Colm and Evie agree to start dating again to decide if this is what they want or if their forever has ended. This story has a lot of heartbreak of death and parent abandonment. I would highly recommend reading the triggers before reading, but this is ultimately a beautiful story about second chances and even realizing that love doesn't happen and it stays forever. It's something that will always need to keep the fire going. If you don't tend to it, eventually it goes out.
In The Hello, we are reliving the magic that brought Colm and Evie together. The pull of two opposites being attracted to each other and being the ultimate pair. In the Goodbye, we experience Colm and Evie figuring out where things went wrong and when they ended up pushing each other away unknowingly. They both work through their regrets of that night almost a year ago.
Colm and Evie agree to start dating again to decide if this is what they want or if their forever has ended. This story has a lot of heartbreak of death and parent abandonment. I would highly recommend reading the triggers before reading, but this is ultimately a beautiful story about second chances and even realizing that love doesn't happen and it stays forever. It's something that will always need to keep the fire going. If you don't tend to it, eventually it goes out.
April 1, 2024
📚📚 REVIEW 📚📚
Book : In the Hello and in the Goodbye
Author : Melissa Whitney
Format: Kindle Edition
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The love story of Evie Johnson and Colm Gallagher unfolded with a diverse set of characters. At first, Colm and Evie had an adorable first meeting in a coffee shop: Colm's shy demeanor contrasted with Evie's chatty and positive outlook on life. As the story progressed, it delved into themes of love, heartbreak, and second chances. Their romance was depicted as a sweet and turbulent journey, filled with moments of joy and sorrow that kept one engaged. Despite facing numerous challenges, Colm and Evie's relationship blossomed, showcasing the resilience of love amidst adversity.
The characters, particularly Colm and Evie, were portrayed as relatable and likable individuals, each with their own strengths and flaws. Their contrasting personalities highlighted the age-old adage that opposites attract, adding depth and complexity to their dynamic.
Overall, "Evie Johnson and Colm Gallagher's Love Story" was a touching and heartwarming tale that explored the intricacies of romance in the modern world. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt moments, this narrative captured the essence of human emotions and the enduring power of love.
Book : In the Hello and in the Goodbye
Author : Melissa Whitney
Format: Kindle Edition
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The love story of Evie Johnson and Colm Gallagher unfolded with a diverse set of characters. At first, Colm and Evie had an adorable first meeting in a coffee shop: Colm's shy demeanor contrasted with Evie's chatty and positive outlook on life. As the story progressed, it delved into themes of love, heartbreak, and second chances. Their romance was depicted as a sweet and turbulent journey, filled with moments of joy and sorrow that kept one engaged. Despite facing numerous challenges, Colm and Evie's relationship blossomed, showcasing the resilience of love amidst adversity.
The characters, particularly Colm and Evie, were portrayed as relatable and likable individuals, each with their own strengths and flaws. Their contrasting personalities highlighted the age-old adage that opposites attract, adding depth and complexity to their dynamic.
Overall, "Evie Johnson and Colm Gallagher's Love Story" was a touching and heartwarming tale that explored the intricacies of romance in the modern world. With its relatable characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt moments, this narrative captured the essence of human emotions and the enduring power of love.
April 6, 2024
Thank you for allowing me access your this book before it was released.
Josephine was a horrible friend and I sent that from the beginning of the book. I automatically knew she had something against Evie‘s boyfriend on the negative way she spoke about him and at some point lighting up when she saw Wyatt talking to Evie.
However I am impressed on how she badly wanted forgiveness and worked on herself in process . I was also happy they got to keep friendship .
Jonathan and Ian are amazing friends. I think everybody in the world deserves a friend like those two they literally went above and beyond to ensure all of the iPad dates went perfectly as planned and stuck to character until the end.
It’s very sad how much loss Eve endured all in one night and that’s definitely such a heartbreaking journey for both her and colm.
The accident at the airport to Me was not a necessary scene after all that already happened in the book but I’m just glad there was no loss.
Fav Quote in book “Like a plant, love is something that must be watered so it lives. It keeps growing.”
Overall I rate this book 4/5
Josephine was a horrible friend and I sent that from the beginning of the book. I automatically knew she had something against Evie‘s boyfriend on the negative way she spoke about him and at some point lighting up when she saw Wyatt talking to Evie.
However I am impressed on how she badly wanted forgiveness and worked on herself in process . I was also happy they got to keep friendship .
Jonathan and Ian are amazing friends. I think everybody in the world deserves a friend like those two they literally went above and beyond to ensure all of the iPad dates went perfectly as planned and stuck to character until the end.
It’s very sad how much loss Eve endured all in one night and that’s definitely such a heartbreaking journey for both her and colm.
The accident at the airport to Me was not a necessary scene after all that already happened in the book but I’m just glad there was no loss.
Fav Quote in book “Like a plant, love is something that must be watered so it lives. It keeps growing.”
Overall I rate this book 4/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
In the hello, Colm and Evie had a sweet love story. They met in a coffee shop- Colm quiet and awkward and Evie a chatterbox who is full of positivity. In the goodbye, after 5 years together in a storybook romance they find themself getting further away from each other literally and figuratively. Neither of them feels like they are the same people they were when they first met. Colm leaves for the summer and it seems like they will reach their breaking point. Can they use the distance to grow closer, or will the distance in their relationship be the end of them?
This book was sweet, romantic, and sad. I don’t normally love the duel timeline but Melissa did a great job with this. You always could tell who’s POV it was and when. You could really get a sense of both characters personalities from their POV. I love that it was split in the hello and in the goodbye, that was really clever. I really enjoyed the diversity of the characters and love seeing that represented in this book. Overall it was sweet romance with a hint of spice, that I definitely recommend. Thank you Melissa for sharing this ARC with me!
This book was sweet, romantic, and sad. I don’t normally love the duel timeline but Melissa did a great job with this. You always could tell who’s POV it was and when. You could really get a sense of both characters personalities from their POV. I love that it was split in the hello and in the goodbye, that was really clever. I really enjoyed the diversity of the characters and love seeing that represented in this book. Overall it was sweet romance with a hint of spice, that I definitely recommend. Thank you Melissa for sharing this ARC with me!
April 19, 2024
𝙄𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙗𝙮𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙈𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙖 𝙒𝙝𝙞𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙮
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
This was such a sweet book! I loved the timeline and how the story was broken up with jumping back and forth between when the characters first met and were getting to know each other then to the present when their relationship was in a rocky place. I loved getting to know the characters and learning all about what made them who they were.
The main characters Evie and Colm were a great couple together and I loved that they were complete opposites but together they made so much sense. It broke my heart the loss they suffered and the struggles they battled during that time and over the year after.
I appreciated the support that both Evie and Colm had on their sides when Colm was away and they were working on their relationship. It was rocky at first but in the end It was beautiful how they came back together and how everyone rallied for them. This was such a fun, feel good story!
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗜𝗞𝗘
Second Chance Romance
Opposites Attract
Relationship in Peril
Autism Rep
Grief and Loss
A Sweet Corgi
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
This was such a sweet book! I loved the timeline and how the story was broken up with jumping back and forth between when the characters first met and were getting to know each other then to the present when their relationship was in a rocky place. I loved getting to know the characters and learning all about what made them who they were.
The main characters Evie and Colm were a great couple together and I loved that they were complete opposites but together they made so much sense. It broke my heart the loss they suffered and the struggles they battled during that time and over the year after.
I appreciated the support that both Evie and Colm had on their sides when Colm was away and they were working on their relationship. It was rocky at first but in the end It was beautiful how they came back together and how everyone rallied for them. This was such a fun, feel good story!
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗 𝗜𝗙 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗟𝗜𝗞𝗘
Second Chance Romance
Opposites Attract
Relationship in Peril
Autism Rep
Grief and Loss
A Sweet Corgi
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