📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Thank you @readforeverpub for an early copy of A Thousand Miles to Graceland by Kristen Mei Chase. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

A Thousand Miles to Graceland tells the story of Grace and her mother, Loralynn. The story begins with Grace’s husband, Jeff, breaking off their marriage. And to add to the humiliation, her mother, who she only sees during the holidays and only talks to over the phone once a month, invites her on a road trip to Graceland to celebrate her 70th birthday. With nothing else to do, Grace reluctantly joins her mother serving as her driver on the way to Graceland. From El Paso to Memphis, it’s all Elvis, sequins, fake eyelashes, Elvis, and painful memories. During their trip, Grace has come to understand her Elvis-obsessed mama and how broken their relationship is.

While I’m not a huge fan of Elvis, I found this novel quite the tearjerker. It’s not a secret that no family is perfect, and neither is Grace’s. Growing up with an alcoholic father and a complaisant mother, she’s had enough and moved to Boston the moment she could right after graduation and never looked back, especially right after her father died. She barely talked to her mother and was surprised when Loralynn asked her to come on a road trip with her. Only then did they reconnect, and got to talk about their past, and the struggles they faced while Grace was growing up. Grace hated everything Elvis since her mom was so obsessed with him, and she gave up trying to compete with the King of Rock ‘n Roll for her mom’s heart. Little did Grace know that it was Loralynn’s way of coping so she could be a happy mother to Grace.

Grace and Loralynn had a lot of heart-to-heart moments throughout the book, and I loved that they were able to reconnect especially with the bomb that Loralynn throws in the middle of their road trip (I mean bad news, not a literal bomb). They were able to bond and understand each other again, regardless of how long it has been since they have last spoken to each other.

Despite the heavy topics discussed in this novel (cancer, death, abusive father), this was pretty much an easy read with some tears shed. Rating this novel ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Releases January 24th, 2023!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this eARC.

A Thousand Miles to Graceland follows mid-40s Grace, who has spent most of her life trying to escape her toxic home life, as she reluctantly drives her newly-70 and Huge Elvis Fan mother from Texas to Graceland.

I struggled with what to rate this book because as I was reading it, I never felt like I had truly settled into the book. Something about it felt off, or lacking, but I couldn't put my finger on it. Even so, this was a fun, fast-paced, and heartwarming read. Though there is a little bit of romance on the periphery of the narrative, the main story focuses on a broken relationship between daughter and mother, and the ways in which these two slowly learn to see from each others' perspectives and come to a new mutual understanding, appreciation, and eventually love. I honestly thought this plot was beautifully executed, with neither character being 100% in the right or in the wrong, and with both requiring a lot of growth and change.

Writing this review, I'm still not sure what was making me feel the way I felt during reading -- maybe it was the romance, or perhaps it was simply that Grace was something of an unreliable narrator (she would often tell her side of an experience and believe her side was correct, though while reading it was obvious that she wasn't correct, or she would explain away her negative feelings in a way that occasionally felt a little invalidating) -- but the more I think about it, the more I realize it doesn't really matter. This wasn't a perfect book, but it was a darn good one, and I hope it finds an audience that will love it.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Kristen Mei Chase for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Thousand Miles to Graceland coming out January 24, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Everything seems to be going fine for 40 year old Grace Johnson until her husband Jeff announces he’s done with their marriage. Her fabulous, fashion-forward mother has been trying to get her to go on a road trip to Graceland for her 70th birthday. Grace decides to go with her instead of wallowing in humiliation from a failed marriage. What could be more fun than seeing Elvis Presley’s lavish estate?

Now the two are driving from El Paso to Memphis, leaving a trail of sequins, big wigs and burdensome memories in their dust. Between spur of the moment roadside stops to psychics, mishaps, and familiar passive-aggressive one-liners, Grace is beginning to understand her Elvis-obsessed mama and their own connection. She may even have another shot at love with an old friend. The King really does work in mysterious ways. Can Grace and her mother work together to heal their past before it’s too late?

I really loved this book! It wasn’t as light as I thought it would be. There were some heavy topics from Grace and her mom’s past and present, but I love road trip books. I think trips are definitely a place that people show their true colors and are able to bond. Grace and her mom are Chinese in a primarily white area in their small Texas town. Grace also had a very volatile relationship with her father. Even with the tough subjects, there was also some humor in it. I’m a big fan of Elvis and I’ve been to Graceland. Grace’s mom was so fun with her obsession with Elvis. I loved the ending!

I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys books about road trips and Elvis Presley!

A Thousand Miles to Graceland highlights the importance of family, friendship, and feeling happy in your own skin. Main character Grace is struggling in her daily life, not really happy at her job or in her marriage. She talks to her “mama” once a month, to control the amount of hometown El Paso crazy that she lets impact her day to day life in Boston. But her Elvis-obsessed mama is turning seventy and wants nothing more than to visit Graceland. Her mama plans a two-week road trip, where Grace will do all of the driving, visiting multiple important locations along the way, most inspired by her love of Elvis. Grace sets out on the trip with low expectations, leaving a lot of room for things to go better than expected. Of course no road trip (especially in a women’s fiction read) is smooth sailing, but Grace and her mama are able to discuss some of their issues and come to more of a mutual understanding on their experiences with Grace’s father’s alcohol and anger issues.
Overall, I thought this book took on a lot - past trauma, racial stereotypes, and family drama are all handled in a realistic manner without feeling too heavy. This was an enjoyable read, while my cat cuddled up on my new cozy blanket in my lap over this chilly weekend.
The book will publish Tuesday, 1/24, so keep an eye out for it! Many thanks to Forever Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC - all opinions are my own.

I did something while reading this book that I never do, she’d a few tears.
I jumped at the chance to read it because ever since seeing the Elvis movie last year I did deep reading about Elvis and then the recent passing of LM, I connected with the theme of the book.
I thought Loralynn was a hoot, never imagining the secrets she held. Grace suffers from a gush of guilt for distancing herself from her mom for years, but finally connects with her on so many levels.
I loved the road trip since I have been on many road trips with my mom.
There was nothing I didn’t love about this book and I like the message— just do it!
My own road trip to Graceland is in the works.

This book was so cute. It’s about a girl and her Elvis loving mother taking a road trip from El Paso Texas to Memphis Tennessee to see Graceland. I honestly had to idea Graceland was in Memphis Tennessee. I don’t actually listen to Elvis or followed his career

First of, I am HUGE Elvis and just got back from a Graceland visit!

This mother-daughter road trip finds them in a convertible traveling from Texas to Memphis, with Elvis
stops along the way. It's an emotional journey as truths are shared bridging the gap in their relationship. Their growing bond throughout the story is impassioned, heartwarming and a whole heck of a lot of fun.

Grace's Mom has been obsessed with Elvis since FOREVER. Her Mom has also been an eccentric dresser often embarrassing her during her school days. All Grace ever wanted was her Mom to dress like everyone else's Mom. From Texas to Graceland, they not only visit Elvis landmarks, they tackle their demons from her mother's horrible marriage that has affected Grace's perception of men.

A fun subplot is a light romance between Grace and her former best friend. It's Now or Never with these middle-aged love interests. Can't help falling in love with A Thousand Miles to Graceland.

Thank you, Thank you very much Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the complimentary copy of this novel.

This book really just took me for a ride. I loved the build up, the character development, and the writing. I would definitely read more from this author!

This was an enjoyable book that I couldn't put down. It was both funny and poignant. The dialogue was pitch perfect and i enjoyed reading about places where I've been. It's about memories and coming to terms with what we do and how we act.

I enjoyed this sweet story about a mother and daughter embarking on a roadtrip to visit Elvis Presley's Graceland. The book was really therapeutic, and I enjoyed seeing how Loralynn and Grace (yes, her mother named her after Graceland) were able to reconnect and finally be vulnerable with another. The book did start off a bit slow for me, and there wasn't much build-up or fun Elvis moments before the life-changing news was revealed. However, Loralynn was an absolute hoot, and it did not take long to fall in love with her. This really is a tribute to mother/daughter relationships and how it's not until we get older do we realize the meaning behind the other's actions.

Warm-hearted, feel good read about a 70 year old woman, who is a huge Elvis fan, and her estranged daughter who go on a roadtrip to visit Elvis’s home, Graceland. Both characters were very likeable and the story of their relationship and how it evolves over the course of the trip is very engaging. It was funny, sad, and relatable.

The story is written in a very easy to read style. There are serious topics touched upon but it never feels too heavy as there are also light-hearted moments and funny situations. I loved the author’s message of hope, it’s never too late and don’t wait. A very enjoyable read.

Thanks to Forever Publishing and Netgalley for an advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.

Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
A Thousand Miles to Graceland by Kristen Mei Chase is a delightful road trip story about a woman and her eccentric mother. This mother-daughter bonding trip is heartwarming, emotional, and a lot of fun.

Story Recap:
Grace Johnson’s husband has left her and she’s feeling lost and doesn’t know what to do next, so when her mother suggests they go on a road trip to Graceland in Memphis, she reluctantly decides to go along. Grace’s relationship with her outlandish mother hasn’t always been good, and she’s not looking forward to spending so much time together. But, it’s her mother’s seventieth birthday, and she knows it’s the right thing to do.

So, Grace and her Elvis-obsessed mama hop in a purple Cadillac and drive from El Paso, Texas to Memphis Tennessee to see the iconic Graceland, the previous home of Elvis Presley. Along the way, they have a few adventures and learn a lot about themselves and each other.

My Thoughts:
I love a good road trip book, and A Thousand Miles to Graceland did not disappoint! The story is heartwarming, funny, and emotional at times. Grace and her mother couldn’t be more different on the surface, but as we get to know each of them more, we realize that they are quite similar deep down inside.

I thought the pacing was very well done. There were moments of humor to break up the more emotional parts and that made a nice balance. There is also a bit of light romance, which I also enjoyed.

If you enjoy heartwarming stories about family dynamics, with a bit of humor and romance, this is the book for you.

Recommendation:
I highly recommend A Thousand Miles to Graceland to anyone who enjoys stories about families. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I will not turn down books with mothers and daughters as the selling point (they usually make me cry and I love it) and this one was lovely. Wonderful writing and a compelling story. Would not hesitate to recommend and I will be looking forward to more from this author.

Special thanks to Forever for making a copy of this book available to review in exchange for a review on NetGalley.

Well, that was fun! I'd like to thank Forever via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of the novel. All opinions expressed are my own.

Grace Johnson, who lives in Boston, has just been told by her husband that he's met someone else and wants out of their marriage. It just so happens that Grace's mother Loralynn, who is a big Elvis fan, wants Grace to drive her from El Paso, Texas to Memphis, Tennessee for her 70th birthday. Sorta like Chester Wheeler only with a tiny Asian lady who likes to wear wigs and eye-catching outfits.

Loralynn rents a huge purple convertible for Grace to drive on the trip and their adventure begins. This was such a sweet story with some lovable characters and great descriptions of the places they visit. I'd love to take a road trip like that with my daughter. Grace and Loralynn have never been close but as the trip progresses they're drawn ever closer together. There are moments of sadness but also moments of humour and joy. Highly recommended reading.

When I was about 65% into this book, it was announced that Lisa Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis and Priscilla, had passed away. I wonder if Loralynn would find that news upsetting. She nursed quite a hatred of Priscilla!
Publication Date: January 24, 2023.

A mother and daughter take a road trip to Graceland to fulfill a lifelong dream for the mother. The road trip was filled with fun moments, tough conversations and life changing revelations. This book made me want to keep picking it back up. It had a good mix of funny moments and tough ones as well. You’ll enjoy even more if you are a fan of Elvis. I enjoyed this book overall and will be looking out for more from the author. Thank you Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a sweet read, yet it deals with some heavy subject matter also. I loved the banter between the mother and daughter as they took their road trip to Graceland. This book is an adventure that will make you laugh, cry and feel every emotion in between.
I received a complimentary copy from Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I came to this book with no expectations beyond the blurb. What an enjoyable road trip! Grace Johnson safe world is shaken when her husband announces he has met someone else. She decides to get away (so he can move out) and give in to her mother’s 70th birthday wish. Next thing you know she’s driving a rented purple convertible Cadillac from El Paso, TX to Memphis, TN. Her mother has been obsessed with Elvis Presley and visiting Graceland is her ultimate bucket list desire.

This book is about the journey and not the destination. Mom and daughter need time together to reconnect understand each other. Grace left behind her abusive father and childhood without understanding how her mom didn’t protect her better. They also both have things they haven’t shared with each other. I’m making this sound depressing and it is not. There is humor and lightness even when discussing serious things. And some of the passive aggressive comment made me roll my eyes and chuckle as I could hear my mother saying such things.

This is an easy book to recommend and is appropriately listed as General (Women’s) Fiction and Multicultural Interest (Asian). There is a potential love interest with an old friend but that is limited to a few conversations and ongoing texting. Trigger warnings for domestic abuse, racism, divorce, cheating, anxiety, divorce, cheating and death (off page).

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is labeled on Amazon as a romantic comedy, and it is 100% NOT a romantic comedy. In fact, I would say this isn’t a romance at all. A Thousand Miles to Graceland is mainly a road trip book between a daughter who escaped her chaotic, toxic home after college and her Chinese-American flamboyant, Elvis-loving mother that ends up being a journey of self-discovery and mother/daughter connection. I would firmly plant it in the WF genre.

The first half of this book felt heavy. Grace is an accountant, not because she has a deep passion for numbers or math, but because she felt it would be a good profession once out of college. She’s married to a man with whom she doesn’t feel an emotional connection or any passion. She only goes home to Texas every few years to see her mother, who clearly embarrasses her with her flashy clothes and beehive wigs. The only real connection she has is with her friend Asha, who she regularly checks in with by text throughout her journey. Grace is not confident in her feelings or her life. She’s a little lost and not emotionally available to anyone.

When her mother calls out of the blue to ask her to take her on a seventieth-birthday trip to Graceland, just the two of them, her first inclination is to make excuses and bow out. But when her husband admits to an affair and asks for a divorce, she decides she needs to get out of town and take the trip with her mom.

I will admit to not really liking Grace when first introduced. She isn’t the most charming, charismatic character and every thought in her head is negative, snarky, and full of judgment. Especially when it comes to Loralynn, her mother. But I knew there HAD to be something else going on besides her constant dislike of her mother’s clothing choices and Elvis collection. And I was right. The second half of the book, after Grace and her mom get on the road and start to spend time together, is more uplifting as mother and daughter begin to clear the air about their misunderstandings of each other and the past, and really start to connect.

Grace realizes that she’s living her life kind of on the back burner, not with any hope or excitement, just day-to-day, but all of that is rooted in the trauma she experienced in her childhood. She doesn’t understand certain choices Loralynn made either, and it’s not until they really talk that she begins to understand. There is also the fact that her mother is ill, really ill, and Grace knows she has a limited amount of time to spend with her. The Grace at the end of the book felt freer and more emotionally available as the made peace with her mother and her past.

There ARE lighter moments, this is a road trip to Graceland after all, but I still felt the heaviness of the subject matter overshadowed much of what was supposed to be fun scenes. My subconscious always knew that these two might not make it all the way to their destination. I will say that I enjoyed reading the epilogue and the changes Grace made in her life.

I did enjoy this read, even though the subject matter was somber. I would urge readers to read the content warnings first, as some of the themes may be triggering.

Final grade- B

Content Warnings- Divorce, cheating, panic attacks, anxiety, cancer diagnosis of a family member, domestic abuse, racism, death of a family member off page

Grace's life is falling apart- she is bored with her job and her bland husband has left her. When her mother, who is Elvis obsessed, requests a road trip to Graceland for her seventh birthday, Grace reluctantly agrees. Her mother is not the normal amount of Elvis obsessed- she dresses like a combination of Elvis and Pricilla, wigs and all. Grace and her mother have a fragile relationship after Grace fled her abusive father after high school and has always resented her mother for not sticking up for her and falling into her love of all things Elvis instead. This road trip is a way for them to reconnect. "I went on the trip to escape my life, and in the process, I actually found it."

I really, really liked this book. It's a road trip book and kind of a buddy comedy. I loved all the Elvis tie ins and how Loralynn (the mother) was so uniquely and unapologetically herself. It is lighter in tone but does deal with strained family relationship and abuse in a touching way. I loved all the characters along the way and the voices of the main two characters. I wished that I was on the road trip with these women of substance.

Thank you to Netgalley for advance copy for review.

An enjoyable tale of a mother and daughter that try to mend fences and find common ground when they take a road trip to Graceland