Katherine Center has done it again! One of my favorite contemporary romances I have read this year. This had such a unique way of telling a romance story and having a journey of self discovery. Sadie figuring out how to navigate her injury and diagnosis through some self realizations was masterfully done. Cannot wait for the next one from Center!
Thanks to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of Hello Stranger

5 Stars!
I'm not sure how Katherine Center does it. I have a few must-read authors, but I can’t say that I've loved every one of their books. It’s reasonable that a reader won’t resonate with every book by a favorite author. The thing is, I've yet to be disappointed by one of KC's stories. I simply connect with her style of writing with its breathtaking mix of poignancy, wit, and romance.

Hello Stranger has a creative premise and with careful research, the author fashioned another unique heroine with Sadie's altered vision after a traumatic accident. The heroine navigates a painful past, the interest of possibly two different men, and her family's unrealistic expectations.

My attention was snagged from the very beginning and never waned. With Sadie's inability to recognize faces, I got to see what she didn't and enjoy the untangling of her misconceptions. As with every Katherine Center book before this one, I felt joy throughout my reading and it was irrepressible by the end.

Notes on the audiobook:
The audio presentation was excellent. I can usually tell when reading would be a better experience than listening. Aside from simply liking the narrator's voice, I also have to agree with the narrator’s interpretation of the material. I know that I’ve listened to Patti Murin before, but now I’ll be sure to check her library of work for more great listens. Her voice(s) suited the material perfectly with smart cadence, diction, and expression.

Happy Pub Day to Katherine Center and Hello Stranger! Pub Day 7/11

I'm a fan of Katherine Center. She is known for writing solid romances with fun storylines full of comfort and hope. Yet she always introduces the unexpected into what is typically a highly predictable genre. In this case it's a struggling artist with a strange side effect from an injury, a couple (??) of possible love interests, and the cutest sidekick of a dog I've seen in a while.

What I love about this book is the way Center works in an interesting and relatively unknown medical condition that forces our artist to approach work and life in a different way and to learn that it is ok to let others help you. I found the family dynamics to be over the top and the conclusion a bit farfetched, but it was still a fun and fast read. Maybe not my favorite Katherine Center book, but I'll still be first in line when her next book is released.

Note: The author's note starts as a reference to her sources for the research on the medical condition and continues into her love letter to romance books and the romance genre. It is well worth your time.

I both read and listened to this book. I enjoyed Patti Murin's narration of the book.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press, MacMillan Audio, and Net Galley for the Advanced Reader's and Advanced Listener's copies of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review will be posted to Goodreads and Instagram tomorrow!
This was a cute read. Definitely a palette cleanser for me! The characters were fun and it was a great journey to go on with them. I loved Joe! He was my favorite. I wish something happened to the step-sister, but man karma please do your thing.

I enjoyed this one much more than The Bodyguard. This was fun, and engaging. The concept was different. I have never heard of face blindness. I thought the twist was well done. I called it a bit before but wasn’t sure if it was going to be what was going to happen.
I read this one as an audiobook. I enjoyed the narrator. I felt that I was able to enjoy this one more because of that audio connection!

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with a copy of this book.
My opinions are all my own. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was a really quick and cute read! I'd not read anything from this author before and found this to be a really easy, light-hearted romcom. It is close door (which I wasn't aware of), but I enjoy those on occasion and thought the banter between the characters made for some great chemistry!

I had this ARC as both an ebook and audiobook and listened to the first 80% of it before switching to ebook for the end. The narrator had a very appealing voice and I would recommend listening if you're an audio fan!

The characters were really fun in this and I thought the face blindness was fascinating! I found the condition was written well so the reader can really understand what she's going through, and it worked great as a plot devise to force the FMC to grow as an artist. I enjoyed Joe as a MMC and he was a nice cinnamon roll of a character. I do wish the characters had a little more depth as I didn't find myself connecting with them in a deep way and I did find some of the side characters to be a bit one dimensional, especially within her step-mom and sister.

I feel like there could have been a little more development in the relationship, as it felt like there wasn't a ton of interaction before the L word was thrown around, but overall they were really cute together. I just wanted a *little* more from them.

Overall, this was a cute, easy to read romcom. I didn't *love* it, but it was a really quick read and had me smiling and chuckling to myself a bit. I recommend for anyone who wants a nice lighthearted summer read!

Spoiler:

I'm a bit confused about if the twist at the end with the two being the same person was supposed to be a surprise. I was under the impression from the description that we knew they were one in the same (and also the Good Samaritan) and felt the author made it clear in describing how the face blindness could affect her that this was the case, but in thinking back to the “reveal” and in looking at other reviews, it seems like it was not obvious to others? I thought the author set it up to have the readers be “in the know”, but if that's not the case, then I'm slightly disappointed as I think the author could have made it not as obvious (and fixed the description as that's what led me to believe they were the same guy right away). It was still a fun read, but a very obvious plot twist if that's the case.

This book is aggressively adorable. And I mean that in the best possible way. Is it predictable? Of course. It’s a romance (adjacent), so naturally you expect to fall in love, encounter an issue/ fight, then get an HEA. I knew what was happening all the way through (why else would EVERYONE use different nicknames for people), but I still loved it. I thought Sadie was relatable and likable. I nearly cried (a supreme rarity for me) when she described her traditions for her mom’s birthday. A great lighthearted read when you need to feel happy or believe in love.

The plot of this story was so interesting and different, I loved it. I had not read a book about this topic before, it was very enjoyable to learn about it and how Sadie navigated the challenges that came with it.

I loved Sadie’s character, I could relate and empathize with what she went through when losing her mother. I was so invested to learn more about her family life and her friendships.

I could see the plot twist from the very beginning, but it did not deterred me from enjoying it. It was actually really satisfying when everything was revealed.

The love interest was and absolute sweetheart, loved the romance aspects so much. The love triangle was great and well done.

Absolutely recommend for everyone to read this one as soon as it’s released! I was lucky to receive an ebook arc and the audiobook, loved the narration. It was great and enjoyable, reading the digital copy was great as well so I would recommend both.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy of this book before the release date in exchange for my honest review.

Sadie Montgomery is diagnosed with face blindness after an unexpected brain surgery. She can still see, but she’s seeing faces as jumbled puzzle pieces. While she’s been told the condition is probably temporary, Sadie has to figure out her new normal. As a portrait artist, Sadie makes her living from being able to see and paint faces. While she’s learning to cope with this, she meets two men and begins to fall hard for one of them.

Hello Stranger is such a cute romance. Katherine Center can do no wrong in my book. The twist was a little predictable, and I felt like it dragged a little bit getting to the big reveal, but overall I really enjoyed the characters and storyline.

Thank you to #NetGalley for a free copy of the audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.

My Interest

I had a lot of fun listening to her best selling book, The Bodyguard, last year and was so hoping there’d be a new book from her this year. When I saw it on audio I requested it. (I’m no longer requesting “print” books–only audios).
The Story

Houston portrait painter Sadie has just had the big break possibility of her life–a chance to win a juried portrait show with a prize of $10,000. Since Sadie has had to give up her apartment and move herself and her ancient dog, Peanut, into her studio, this would be a huge help. Just when she’s on the brink of making it she is hit by a car and loses the capacity to see faces!!!

Meanwhile, Peanut has been boarded at a new vet clinic while Sadie was hospitalized. The new vet is HOT! And nice and, well, the stuff of Sadie’s dreams. There’s a guy in her building who might just be ok, too. If only the swelling in her brain would go down and the face blindness would go away forever.
My Thoughts

I wasn’t sure she could top The Bodyguard, but darn it all–I loved Sadie and Peanut. And Joe and Oliver, the cool vet with the “Ivy League” hair style, and Sue and and….well, pretty much everyone except Step-Mom Lucinda [cringe–that’s my Mom’s name] aka “Martha Stewart” and her daughter, Parker, who reminded me of the wife of that red headed Royal who is always buying herself humanitarian awards. You know the one that didn’t attend the coronation? And always plays the victim? Yes, Parker was that level of evil. Even though I figured out the book’s great surprise/secret–it didn’t matter. The journey to get to it was just so fun.

Please let this be the second of a long string of wonderful rom-com books from Katherine Center.
My Verdict
4.0

Hello Stranger by Katherine Center publishes July 11, but is available now for pre-order. (Link is the Amazon USA)

The audio performer consistently mispronounced the word “hovel.”

Sadie Mongomery has spent much of her adulthood trying to prove to her father that she has her life on track. When she finds out that she is a finalist in a portrait competition, she feels like she finally has a chance to honor her mother and show the rest of her family that she is proud of her choices. Suddenly, a medical incident leaves Sadie with face blindness and she feels like her chances to succeed have been crushed.

Hello Stranger is a stand-alone contemporary romance. While the book does cover the MCs frenemies to more relationship it also heavily follows Sadie’s health journey.

Trigger/Content Warnings: medical emergency, bullying by family member, parental death

I had previously heard of face blindness but was not familiar with all of the technicalities. The amount of time and research the author put into studying this condition really comes across throughout the storyline. I learned quite a bit and appreciate the sensitive but realistic way in which face blindness is conveyed.

I have read each of this author’s books and she continues to impress me every time. Everytime I think I have found my favorite Katherine Center book, she writes another exceptional work of art. I can’t wait to see what she has for her readers next.

Patti Murin is one of my favorite solo narrators. She does a fabulous job bringing the characters of Hello Stranger to life. Her portrayal of Sandie’s snarky “evil” step-sister is particularly delightful.

I voluntarily read, listened to, and reviewed advanced copies of this book and audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Macmillan Audio!

I received a free Advanced Reading Copy via NetGalley in exchange for a complete and honest review.

One of the best books I've read in a long while!

Katherine Center became a must read author after The Bodyguard so I went into this blind and enjoyed it! It’s a cute, heartwarming story about life’s journey and how things don’t always go as planned. Sadie was a fun MC and I loved her tenacity and grit. She had some great character growth and finally learned how to stand up to others. I am reading Happiness for Beginners now because an adaption is coming out soon and I always try to read before I watch!

Katherine Center is one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. I fell so hard for How to Walk Away and my all time favorite of hers is Things You Save in a Fire! **Sigh**
So of course I’m going to read this! KC always surprises me with her unique story lines and I would have never guessed this one if I tried. It was different and sweet with a lot of non communication. But I did get my HEA! Yay! I read and listened to this and liked both formats. The audiobook was narrated by Patti Mirin. She was awesome if you’re wondering.
Thanks St. Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio via NetGalley.

Hello Stranger was one unique and heartwarming story that I really needed! This is my second time reading a book by this author, and I should really read her more often. I read this at the perfect time because I am also in the middle of reading a dark romance and this was such a great change in pace. I really just needed something warm and fuzzy to sink my teeth into! I could absolutely see this entire book coming from the beginning. But I strapped myself in and enjoyed the ride. It was so sweet and dealt with real life issues, but it wasn’t all in your face about it. Though Sophie and Joe annoyed me at some parts, in the end, I really loved them both.They grew on me and I thought they were such a great fit for one another. This is easily one of those books that you can read in one sitting and is a perfect book for the beach. It’s a fun book that will captivate you from beginning to end.

I will say that I had the pleasure of listening to this on audio as well. It was such a great listen. The narrator, Patti Murin, did a fantastic job. This is the first time I’ve read a book that she narrated and I listen to her again.

The final thing I’d like to say is fuck Parker 🖕🏻😊

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 (5 Stars)

Narration: the narration was great. Did a good job of voices for different characters.

Steam: 0/5 closed door, just kissing

Out: July 11th!

Thanks to Netgalley, Macmillan audio and St. Martin’s Press for the advanced audiobook in exchange for my honest review

No spoiler review 👇🏻

The Bodyguard by this author was one of my favourite books of 2022 so I was so excited for this one!

This book was beautiful and I loved it! Kathrine Centre is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors. I can’t wait to read. Ore from her, and catch up on her backlist.

This book follows Sadie, she’s a portrait artist. One day she suffers an accident and it results in her having facial blindness. She can’t see people’s facial features. Which makes it hard when you are in a portrait competition….

It has its sadder moments but it’s all beautiful, funny, and romantic. I absolutely enjoyed this book. It’s a closed door romance with family drama, and learning how to adjust to a new life. I highly recommend this book!


CW: family drama, medical procedures, medical trauma, death of parent (past), bullying (past)

i LOVED this book. Its sweet and not spicy, which is a bit unusual for me as someone who loves spice. But the anticipation of them falling in love is what had me glued to the pages
I really like when romcoms take on a deeper issue, I feel like it connects us more to the characters, and this one was a really heartwarming story that I highly recommend to anyone who likes their romances to have a bit more depth

4.5 stars.

The thing about a Katherine Center book is that no matter what mood you are in when you pick it up, you will most certainly be smiling after finishing one of her stories. She's truly a comfort writer in every sense of the word! You might think - it's another contemporary romance, how different can it be from other books, but you'd be surprised my friend. Katherine Center has a knack for unique storylines that just feel like a big warm hug.

Hello Stranger was no different, it was sweet, sentimental and uplifting. And I can't stress enough on how utterly perfect that final twist was. I've read quite a few thrillers and yet, I could never have guessed that one, or should I say it was a classic case of "confirmation bias" haha (you'll get it, if you've read the book!) A story full of hope, heart and humor, Hello Stranger is a "love story that created a fantastic feeling of anticipation" (read the author's note to get this reference) and had me completely charmed. A must read for all romance readers.

As always, Patty Murin nailed the audio, perfectly embracing Sadie's vibe! she also did an excellent narration of the evil sister Parker! A delightful audio experience overall.

I don’t think Katherine Center can write a book that is not amazing! I loved this story! The characters (except Parker), the story line, the mishaps…everything. The narrator was fabulous & made the story so much more fun. I was internally shouting (since I was on an airplane) at Sadie when she was confused over Joe ghosting her as I thought I had figured out what was going on. The actual explanation of what really happened was sooo much fun. The ending was perfect! Another fabulous book for me to recommend to friends & family. Thanks for the fun!

Thank you to MacMillan Audio & NetGalley for giving me the chance to listen to this gem.

Katherine Center is absolutely hands down one of my new favorite romance authors. I discovered The Bodyguard because of a bookish friend’s recommendation, and now I’m in the process of binging all of Center’s books. I even bought out all of the titles BOTM currently has in stock (and Hello Stranger is a July 2023 main pick!). This is serious.

Center’s light-hearted, no-spice romances are my new go-to contemporary romance reads. I loved the heartfelt, real world issues juxtaposed with happy romance that, in this book, was such a great story of people falling in love and the best miscommunication trope I’ve seen used ever.

Sadie is such a positive FMC, and her love interest, whom I will only vaguely reference because I shall not spoil plots, were so great together. Oh, I just loved this book. It’s a must read, even if you only get it from the library. If you’re a fan of romance without the graphic sexual content but still like the sensuality of two people’s attraction and falling in love with one another, you’ll love this book.

Once again, Patti Murin does a great job bringing Center's story to life (Murin also narrates The Bodyguard by Katharine Center). I loved the dramatic reading, the great character voices, and the narration overall was completely immersive.

My thanks to NetGalley for the eARC and ALC, for which I willingly give my own, honest opinion.

I have mixed feelings about this book because I enjoyed the book and the writing, as I always do with KC books, but I did not particularly like the plot. I think one challenge that established authors like Katherine Center face is that after publishing so many good books, we begin to start comparing them with one another. I kept trying to not hold this book to any standard but it is hard when KC wrote books like THINGS YOU SAVE IN A FIRE and THE BODYGUARD. I really enjoy Katherine Center's books but this just wasn't my personal favorite. I read via ebook and audio formats and enjoyed both!