Tell Me I’m Safe

“Astonishing debut! There can’t be enough said about this novel. What begins as a story of George Hartmann relocating his family to Ithaca, New York for his new job becomes a journey of self-discovery that eventually brings more questions than answers. It’s an engrossing story of family, life, death, reflection, and anticipation. Ms. Utt-Grubb’s flowing style will have you laughing, crying, gasping for breath, and contemplating issues about ourselves and our place in the world while appreciating those closest to us and the roles we play in each other’s lives. We even understand that we may have been playing those roles longer than we think. This engaging tale, reminiscent of Pat Conroy’s work which also focuses on struggles and hope within families, stays with you long after the final line is read and leaves you eager to continue the story with the Hartmann family, which we will hopefully do in the next novel in the series. Definitely a worthwhile addition to your library.”

“I couldn’t put it down! Honestly! At one point I was standing in the dining room, knew I should go to bed, but stood there reading just one more chapter ... standing up.

Fascinating book, engaging characters, realistic dialogue, true suspense. I’m so glad this is the first in a series, because I want there to be more.

Those who enjoy Alex Cross’s wonderful family and close friends in James Patterson’s series will recognize similar dynamics here. The family and friends portrayed in Tell Me I’m Safe are the best. Their emotions are genuine, their affection and loyalty absolute. Already I care about them, admire the trust they have for one another, and can’t wait to see how they support each other in the books to follow.”

“Very engaging. Worth the emotional energy to read it through to the end and beginning.”

“This is one deep, emotional book! I would like to say I couldn’t put it down until it ended, but life got in the way. And after reading this book, I look at life a little more closely and with more love. Now I am eager to read the next book in the series. Thank you, Kelly Utt! ”

“If I could add more stars for this book, I would!! This novel was an awesome read! I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it.

The love this family shares with and for each other is what everyone dreams of. The background information never leaves you wondering about the past so you can go forward. A lot of events happen within a very short time. Moving, family time, a break in, a death, emotional roller coasters, lots of love, an ending and a new beginning. It’s amazing how this author makes it all flow so well together. I can’t wait to read the next in the series.”

“I wanted my plane to be late so I could keep reading! This is the kind of novel you want to read in big gulps or all at once. I found myself interested in the characters — they’re people I want to believe in. People I want to see respond to situations. And this book puts them in plenty of them. Some involve family. Others involve more crucible do-or-die moments. And others, well, all I’ll say is they transcend the obvious and the ordinary. The best part is that the cover says BOOK ONE, so there’s MORE! I will be happy to spend more time with these characters.”

“Life and death. This is a very well written book with an uncommon level of detail in the story telling. The story is slow moving but details the events of a family through career changes, trauma and joy. Past events play havoc on current situations and new events bring on new life. A good story for readers who enjoy detailed writing styles and emotive characterisation of events and life.”

“What’s coming next? A one night read for me. Started the book early and finished as the sun was coming up, so one might say, my attention was captured quickly and I couldn’t put it down. Highly relatable to my life where the grandpa and close knit family was concerned. Thought provoking even after I finished the book. Not your standard romance or mystery. Surprises emerge!”

“From the first page I was totally drawn in to this powerful story of family love and adoration of 4 generations. Then the incident of sheer terror scared me to death! By the end, I was streaming tears! So many emotions in a realistic setting. Kelly, you wove a beautiful story and I look forward to the next ones!!!!”

“Amazing storytelling. Tell Me I’m Safe is an amazing book by first time author Kelly Utt. I truly enjoyed the rich details, the engaging storytelling and the diversity of each character. The characters feel like people you know. What really brings this book to life is the way Utt seamlessly weaves the past, present and hints of the future into one book. She does it effortlessly and flawlessly without confusion. If you love a good fiction book that feels like you’re reading nonfiction, get this book! You won’t be disappointed!”

“George and Ali relocate to Ithaca Falls, NY from Washington DC. Relocating to a small town compared to DC. They are a close knit family. Shortly after moving in, they have a break in and the perpetrator tries to take one of their sons. A number of events set George in an emotional path where he seeks the help of a psychologist. A very enjoyable novel and well written. ”

“Great study in beliefs, morals and ideas. Having no preconceptions, I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed the book. It is a thoughtful study of the connection we all have, past and present, whether we are aware of it or not. The characters were well defined and interesting. Kelly does a wonderful job describing situations and environment. I would highly recommend picking up a copy. I look forward to future books and stories. ”

“Wonderful read. I loved it. It is different from anything else I’ve read. So many twists and turns, it keeps your interest. I highly recommend you read Tell Me I’m Safe. You will not be disappointed.”

“I enjoyed reading about the characters and found the story fascinating. Well done! I hope to see a sequel.”

“Beautifully written with fascinating plot twists! This is a beautifully written tribute to the power of love, loyalty, and family — across millennia! It includes a fascinating element of what some might call fantasy. But then, who are we to say? If you enjoy stories with unique twists, you will love this one!”

“Loved the story line of this book. The closeness of the family and the events going through a move to a new town. Also the husbands closeness to his dad who he lost at a early age is very touching. And their dog... a hero. Anxious to read the next chapter in this story. Great job, Kelly.”

“You’ll love it! Tell Me I’m Safe is a gripping psychological drama that vaults you from page to page. The main character wrestles with his family’s well being, his own desires, and maybe, his own demons. This is a great read and a compelling introduction to the main character, George Hartmann and his family. It is both suspenseful and dynamic while sharing with the reader the promise of both George’s future and his past. Can’t wait for the saga to continue!”

“Great characters, people I would like to be friends with or be a part of their family. An engrossing story that will capture you and keep you turning pages - cannot put this down.”

“Fast and easy read. It was romantic, at times edge of your seat, and at times very emotional. It has a twist that I have not read in other books of its genre. You won’t be disappointed!”

“A loving family story. Good read about a family and their new life and the love they have for each other and get through some troubles... They really care about their feelings and help each other so much... Even the love for their pet.... Enjoyable book.”

“Fresh and entertaining. This book sets the stage for a thrilling and intriguing series to come. Before you begin reading, you’ll want to plan to set aside enough time to finish this in a couple days because you won’t put it down.”

“I want to spend time with this family. I like how the character’s past was carefully revealed. This story captivated my interest. It was a quick read that left me intrigued about this family’s history.”

“Tell Me I’m Safe has it all and whets interest. I found this story to be intriguing, especially the turn in plot that is unique. I can foresee the continuation of this plot for many books to come. I enjoyed this book and will await the next one patiently.”

“Great New Series. Fantastic book! I fell in love with the characters! Ready for the next book in the series.”

“A very intriguing and engaging read with a profound story line, intricate challenges and characters kept me captivated and flows off the pages. Makes a great read.”

“Really enjoyed this book. This isn’t my normal go to for a book to read, but I could not put it down. Beautiful and moving, I can’t wait to read what is in store for the characters.”

“I read the first few pages and was hooked. Well written and unique storyline keep the book fast paced. The characters are likable but at times overly sentimental.

George and Ali move their family back to George’s hometown of Ithaca, NY When George retires from the service. Surrounded by family and friends the family survives a crisis when one of the children is almost abducted leading to the knowledge of past lives lived together. ”

“When I began this book I quickly realized it wasn’t my normal type of book to pick up and read. I tend to gravitate to action or apocalypse types of books. As I started to get deeper I realized it was a well written book and an interesting switch from normal. I enjoyed the read and would recommend the book to everyone. ”

“This is one of the best books I’ve ever read. At first it was complicated trying to figure out what was going on. I love how you worked to the last chapter. Thank you so much.”