Hadley and Grace: A Novel

The author of In an Instant delivers a heart-pounding and emotional roller-coaster ride of self-discovery in the tradition of Thelma and Louise.

Needing to escape her abusive marriage, Hadley flees with her two kids, knowing it might be her only chance. A woman who can't even kill a spider, Hadley soon finds herself pushed to the limits as she fights to protect her family.

Grace, new mother of baby Miles, desperately wants to put her rough past behind her for good, but she finds it impossible when her path crosses with Hadley's, and her quest for a new start quickly spirals out of control and turns into a terrifying flight for survival.

Stronger together than apart, the two find their fates inextricably entwined, and as the danger closes in, each must decide how much she is willing to risk for the other.

A powerful story of self-discovery, Hadley and Grace is the heart-racing tale of two women facing insurmountable odds, racing to stay one step ahead of the trouble that is chasing them, and discovering new kinds of love and family along the way.

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Published Feb 1, 2021

344 pages

Average rating: 7

12 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

abookwanderer
Oct 09, 2025
8/10 stars
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.

Check out my review at A Book Wanderer

#popsugarreadingchallenge2021 (prompt #40d)
Tanja
Jun 25, 2025
8/10 stars
Loved, loved, loved this book.
This was one of my January Prime First Read picks and it was a great one. The author takes us on a thrilling road trip full of twists and turns, dramatic events, and characters that have a lot of depths.
I loved the characters and how they evolved over the short period of time they spent together.
Hadley & Grace is an amazing book of self-discovery, family, survival, and empowerment. I highly recommend it :)

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