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A review by abookwanderer
Hadley & Grace by Suzanne Redfearn
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
4.25 stars What a ride! Hadley & Grace by Suzanne Redfearn had me rooting for these accidental criminals forced into an unforgettable road trip when things go from bad to worse, lives are changed forever, and friendships are born from necessity.
Hadley & Grace is my first novel by Redfearn, although I own her previous novel, In an Instant, which I'm even more exited to read now. Redfearn has created characters in Hadley and Grace that are strong, vibrant, and moldable--growing and learning from their experiences, which is refreshing and exciting.
I was thrilled when the author invited me to read an early copy of this novel on Instagram. (Yay for positive social media experiences!) I have a thing for road trips, so anytime I come across a book that features one, I'm instantly intrigued. Not to mention the idea of a modern-day Thelma & Louis--but with kids in tow! I was hooked by the synopsis. And I'm happy to say, Redfearn delivers! I never found myself doubting the plot--even though some aspects might be considered a stretch. I was so wrapped up in the characters and action, all other logical considerations went out the window. And while this story is mostly about mothers and friendship, it also includes some very well-written romance, which makes this hopeless romantic very happy.
I have to mention the kids. Sometimes in books you feel like kids are only added to round out the main characters, but not here. The kids in this book feel fully-formed and essential to the story. And the relationship between the kids and the women is so real, written with honesty and love. My heart broke and soared for these kids.
I could definitely see this one as a movie. You might think it's already been done, but not like this. I think it's time we had an updated version! The only thing I would change--more diversity. I really wanted some people of color in this great cast of characters. So happy I picked this one up, and I can't wait to read more from the author.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for the advanced reader's copy.
#popsugarreadingchallenge2021 (prompt #40d)
Hadley & Grace is my first novel by Redfearn, although I own her previous novel, In an Instant, which I'm even more exited to read now. Redfearn has created characters in Hadley and Grace that are strong, vibrant, and moldable--growing and learning from their experiences, which is refreshing and exciting.
I was thrilled when the author invited me to read an early copy of this novel on Instagram. (Yay for positive social media experiences!) I have a thing for road trips, so anytime I come across a book that features one, I'm instantly intrigued. Not to mention the idea of a modern-day Thelma & Louis--but with kids in tow! I was hooked by the synopsis. And I'm happy to say, Redfearn delivers! I never found myself doubting the plot--even though some aspects might be considered a stretch. I was so wrapped up in the characters and action, all other logical considerations went out the window. And while this story is mostly about mothers and friendship, it also includes some very well-written romance, which makes this hopeless romantic very happy.
I have to mention the kids. Sometimes in books you feel like kids are only added to round out the main characters, but not here. The kids in this book feel fully-formed and essential to the story. And the relationship between the kids and the women is so real, written with honesty and love. My heart broke and soared for these kids.
I could definitely see this one as a movie. You might think it's already been done, but not like this. I think it's time we had an updated version! The only thing I would change--more diversity. I really wanted some people of color in this great cast of characters. So happy I picked this one up, and I can't wait to read more from the author.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for the advanced reader's copy.
#popsugarreadingchallenge2021 (prompt #40d)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse and Death