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Bailey Flanigan #3
Longing
Longing, book three in the Bailey Flanigan Series, picks up where Learning ended. After a long and lonely silence from Cody Coleman, Bailey Flanigan becomes closer to her one-time Hollywood co-star, Brandon Paul. Nights on the town in New York City and long talks on the balcony of Brandon's Malibu Beach home make Bailey dizzy with new feelings and cause her to wonder if her days with Cody are over forever. Meanwhile, Cody's work coaching a small-town football team has brought him and his players national attention. In the midst of the celebration and success, Cody finds himself much closer to a woman who seems to better understand him and his new life. Even so, never does much time go by without Bailey and Cody experiencing deep feelings of longing for each other, longing both for the past and for answers before they can move forward. Will an unexpected loss be the turning point for Cody? Will Cody and Bailey find a way back together again for the first time in more than a year? And if they do, will their brief time together be enough to help them remember all they've been longing for?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
464 people are currently reading
3714 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kingsbury
210 books12.1k followersKaren Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. Her Baxter Family books are being developed into a TV series slated for major network viewing sometime in the next year. Karen is also an adjunct professor of writing at Liberty University. In 2001 she and her husband, Don, adopted three boys from Haiti, doubling their family in a matter of months. Today the couple has joined the ranks of empty nesters, living in Tennessee near five of their adult children.
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
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November 19, 2018
Brandon and Bailey. Brandon and Bailey. Brandon and Bailey. Brandon and Bailey.
I loved this one.
I loved this one.
Want to read
July 22, 2011Is it just me or does this wimp bear a striking resemblance to Justin Bieber? ;-)
August 12, 2016
Longing is the third book in the Bailey Flanigan series (following Leaving and Learning, with the final book, Loving, due to be published in March 2012). I haven’t read the first two (although I have read all the previous books right back from the beginning of the Baxter Family books), and I found it easy to pick up any details I may have missed in those two books. However, aspects of the novel would probably be quite confusing for someone who has not read the any of the previous novels, as the whole series (21 books and counting, over more than ten years) feels like a long-running soap opera. For example, one chapter of Longing was pure Baxter catch-up, with little relevance to the rest of the story, and another scene at the Flanigan house felt like a public service announcement drug warning, as it bore little relation to the rest of the plot.
Bailey is now 22, and is working in Broadway, going out with movie star Brandon while still having some feelings for Cody because the relationship never had closure. Longing is a fun young adult novel, full of contemporary pop culture references to things like Twitter, Owl City and Adele, things I know because I have kids, and which reinforce the youth focus.
I think my problem with this series is that somewhere along the way, it has moved from being a true-to-life problems of normal (albeit fictional) characters to being some kind of fantasy more suited to the teen and young adult audience. The original Redemption and Firstborn novels appealed to a much wider age group, and dealt with issues many of us face, whereas Bailey has led what seems to be a totally charmed life in which her biggest decisions have been to act on Broadway or Hollywood, to date the heartthrob movie superstar or the disabled war hero who just coached a high school football team to the state final. Yeah, right. It’s like a Christian version of having to chose between a vampire and a werewolf (I chose the wrong side there, and may have done it again with Team Cody).
It’s not that the books are not good – they are, in a long-running family saga kind of way. It is that I think they have moved away from their original audience. I commend Karen Kingsbury for the way her novels have spoken to people, young and old, and for wanting her newer books to touch young people in the same way as her previous books have spoken to women of all ages all over the world. People have read my Kingsbury books and returned them, saying “that’s me!” because they related so well to what she is saying. But those same people stopped borrowing them during the Sunrise series. I suspect Kingsbury would have been better off creating a new set of unrelated characters for the more youth-oriented Above the Line and Bailey Flanigan novels. And, on a lighter note, I wish that Jenny Flanigan wasn’t quite so perfect. It’s a tough act for us real-life mothers to have to live up to!
If you have read and enjoyed the Above the Line series or the first two Bailey Flanigan stories, then you will probably enjoy Longing. If you haven’t, then this is probably not the best book to start with. I would suggest young adults start with Take One, and older adults start with Redemption.
Thanks to Zondervan and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This review also appears on my blog, www.christianreads.blogspot.com.
Bailey is now 22, and is working in Broadway, going out with movie star Brandon while still having some feelings for Cody because the relationship never had closure. Longing is a fun young adult novel, full of contemporary pop culture references to things like Twitter, Owl City and Adele, things I know because I have kids, and which reinforce the youth focus.
I think my problem with this series is that somewhere along the way, it has moved from being a true-to-life problems of normal (albeit fictional) characters to being some kind of fantasy more suited to the teen and young adult audience. The original Redemption and Firstborn novels appealed to a much wider age group, and dealt with issues many of us face, whereas Bailey has led what seems to be a totally charmed life in which her biggest decisions have been to act on Broadway or Hollywood, to date the heartthrob movie superstar or the disabled war hero who just coached a high school football team to the state final. Yeah, right. It’s like a Christian version of having to chose between a vampire and a werewolf (I chose the wrong side there, and may have done it again with Team Cody).
It’s not that the books are not good – they are, in a long-running family saga kind of way. It is that I think they have moved away from their original audience. I commend Karen Kingsbury for the way her novels have spoken to people, young and old, and for wanting her newer books to touch young people in the same way as her previous books have spoken to women of all ages all over the world. People have read my Kingsbury books and returned them, saying “that’s me!” because they related so well to what she is saying. But those same people stopped borrowing them during the Sunrise series. I suspect Kingsbury would have been better off creating a new set of unrelated characters for the more youth-oriented Above the Line and Bailey Flanigan novels. And, on a lighter note, I wish that Jenny Flanigan wasn’t quite so perfect. It’s a tough act for us real-life mothers to have to live up to!
If you have read and enjoyed the Above the Line series or the first two Bailey Flanigan stories, then you will probably enjoy Longing. If you haven’t, then this is probably not the best book to start with. I would suggest young adults start with Take One, and older adults start with Redemption.
Thanks to Zondervan and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This review also appears on my blog, www.christianreads.blogspot.com.
June 12, 2017
I AM SO MAD
September 9, 2012
I have been a Kingsbury fan for a while now. I began reading the Baxter series almost 4 years ago. The Baxter series is actually made up of several series including the Redemption series (5 books), the Firstborn series (5 books), and the Sunrise series (4 books) and then moves into the Above the Line series (4 books) and the Bailey Flanigan series (4 books). Longing is the 3rd book in the Bailey Flanigan series. I have also read many of her books that are not a part of this series.
The reason that I fell in love with the books that center around the Baxter family is because I related to them. They are most definitely fiction books; however, they dealt with true-to-life issues. And in the midst of these difficult issues, Kingbury always found a way to make God real to her characters in one way or another. These books have encouraged me in my faith on countless occasions.
I wish I could say that Longing made an impact on my life the way that her other books have. However, this book fell short. I have loved reading about Bailey Flanigan and her family and friends through the years, and as silly as this is, I even remember when Taelyn was young praying that she and I would have a relationship like the mother-daughter relationship that Jenny and Bailey Flanigan share. However, in the past few books, especially this one, Bailey Flanigan and the entire Flanigan family have been portrayed as too perfect. While they have minor issues that they have to deal with on occasion, it is never anything that actually touches their family. Sure their friends deal with some tough issues: drugs, illness, etc, but the Flanigan family seems outside the reach of major problems. Daddy Flanigan was a NFL star, turned super-star high school football coach, turned super-star NFL coach. Jenny Flanigan has a house full of perfect kids who are heavily involved in their youth group, never get in trouble in school, never deal with bad grades, never talk back to their parents or make poor decisions, and she always knows exactly what to say in every situation. Bailey Flanigan gets everything she ever wanted, including a major role in a movie and a job dancing on Broadway. And when that position fails, a chance to audition for the next Blockbuster movie is waiting for her. She never struggles with sin or even the desire to sin and has 2 incredible guys competing for her attention. And a NFL quarterback interested in her if either of those 2 don't pan out. The perfect family was waiting to take her in when she moved to New York City. Sure, Cody has always made it difficult for the two to be in a happy, committed relationship. I think that is why readers stayed interested in this story-line. He was the only one that made it real. He was the one with a past. He was the one that the rest of us could actually relate to.
However, now Kingsbury has ditched Cody and Bailey is with ultra-successful, Hollywood heartthrob, Brandon Paul. Now, Brandon used to be in the midst of the Hollywood party scene, so he knows what it is like to be promiscuous, to drink, to do drugs. However, Bailey led Brandon to Jesus and now he doesn't struggle with any of those old desires at all. They just vanished. Poof. He keeps his distance from Bailey when they are alone and knows just when to leave. He has no problem wanting to be more intimate with Bailey, even though he is no stranger to that lifestyle. He no longer has any desire to drink or party or be anywhere in the vicinity of those things. He doesn't get mad or jealous when Bailey has run-ins with her first love. He reacts perfectly to every situation. How in the world are readers supposed to relate to that? It is like Kingsbury was trying to make the human form of Edward Cullen.
I understand that this is fiction, but in the past Kingsbury's characters have all been "real-life" fiction. They deal with prescription drug addiction, and affairs, and infertility. Even the matriarch of the entire Baxter family made a few major mistakes in her life and covered them up for years. That was what I loved about these books. They were real. They made you feel that even though you were a real person with real struggles that it was okay. Trust God and He will be sufficient to get you through whatever you face. Now that Kingsbury has moved from the lives of the real Baxters to the lives of the "postively perfect in every way" Flanigans (whom she has admitted is modeled after her own family) you no longer feel good about yourself when reading these books. They have lost the realism. They no longer feel like they pertain to your life at all. We don't learn anything from them. Now it just feels like you are reading a fiction novel. And that leaves me, personally, feeling disappointed.
I'm sure I'll read the last book in this series because I have read all of the others and I feel like I need to know how this saga ends. However, my expectations are low. I feel fairly certain that in the last book Bailey will struggle with how to deal with the paparazzi as she determines if this is the life she wants to lead. I believe we have read that before in the Firstborn series. I'm sure Bailey will get a great movie role, or maybe she will win another role on Broadway. Brandon will be pictured on the front of a tabloid in a questionable way. They will decide they don't want the Hollywood lifestyle and move to Bloomington, Indiana and live happily ever after. And they won't make an impression in my life whatsoever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2011
I was so excited to get this book in my hands! And NOW I can't wait for Loving in March! I love the characters in this book. I have "watched" as Bailey has grown up and become a wonderful young woman. She shows us that even when things are difficult that God can get us through it. We may not know WHY things are the way they are at the time but if we trust that God works all things for good then at some point we will be able to look back and see how God worked through that situation.
I have been Team Cody forever. BUT in Learning I began to shift to Team Brandon. Not because I don't love Cody but because of how Brandon is growing in the Lord. In Longing he grows even more. And how can I not love someone who loves Bailey so much?
Cody is an amazing example of how you can "pay it forward". He had Coach Flanigan who came along side him when he was in high school and mentored him into the Godly man he became. Cody turns around and does the same for the kids at the high school he coaches at.
The title Longing represents how we should LONG for the Lord. And the more we do the more He shows us. When we have Christ at the center of our lives we should LONG to be with Him and be in His Word more and more.
This book is one of many that I recommend to teens and adults alike. It is especially good for those who are graduating high school and seeking what the Lord would have them do in life. This series would be an awesome gift.
I have been Team Cody forever. BUT in Learning I began to shift to Team Brandon. Not because I don't love Cody but because of how Brandon is growing in the Lord. In Longing he grows even more. And how can I not love someone who loves Bailey so much?
Cody is an amazing example of how you can "pay it forward". He had Coach Flanigan who came along side him when he was in high school and mentored him into the Godly man he became. Cody turns around and does the same for the kids at the high school he coaches at.
The title Longing represents how we should LONG for the Lord. And the more we do the more He shows us. When we have Christ at the center of our lives we should LONG to be with Him and be in His Word more and more.
This book is one of many that I recommend to teens and adults alike. It is especially good for those who are graduating high school and seeking what the Lord would have them do in life. This series would be an awesome gift.
December 7, 2011
The trouble I have with these books is that they drag on forever. I skipped the book before this and felt like I really hadn't missed much at all. This is Christian fiction and it is heavy on the Christian. I knew that going into it though so I can't really complain. I'm just ready to see this Bailey/Cody/Brandon saga reach a conclusion.
I listened to this on a long car drive. I'll pick up the last book in this series to have some closure, but I don't think I'll be reading any more of Karen Kingsbury. I really enjoyed some of her earlier books but these books feel more like a lengthy sermon than a fiction book sometimes. If you like that, then you will enjoy these books a lot.
What I can say is that I know I can open any book written by Karen Kingsbury and find good morals and values. That is praise worthy all by itself.
I listened to this on a long car drive. I'll pick up the last book in this series to have some closure, but I don't think I'll be reading any more of Karen Kingsbury. I really enjoyed some of her earlier books but these books feel more like a lengthy sermon than a fiction book sometimes. If you like that, then you will enjoy these books a lot.
What I can say is that I know I can open any book written by Karen Kingsbury and find good morals and values. That is praise worthy all by itself.
January 5, 2018
Probably a little less than a 3. This is my least favorite series of the Baxter series. It’s been a struggle to get through them.
October 20, 2024
The 3rd book in the Bailey Flanagan series. It was a 4 star series for me.
March 11, 2017
Great continuation to the story. I love that Karen Kingsbury is not afraid to discuss serious topics. Looking forward to finishing the series.
March 26, 2012
This book is definitely the best of series so far. The writing is not spectacular, but this one doesn't have the "triteness" of the other two, which I personally appreciate. I will say, however, that I'm still not a huge fan of Brandon. I want to like him, but he's just a little too perfect. Having Jesus in your life doesn't mean you change overnight, but that's what seemed to happen to him. I'd like to see him make a few mistakes - make a movie he regrets, be portrayed incorrectly by the media, mess up with Bailey - something.
Even though these books aren't spectacular, I'll probably read the final book when it comes out. Despite everything and everyone being just a little too easy and perfect, I do genuinely want to know what happens.
Even though these books aren't spectacular, I'll probably read the final book when it comes out. Despite everything and everyone being just a little too easy and perfect, I do genuinely want to know what happens.
January 12, 2018
RIVETING. Again. Desperate to read book 4, coming this year! I love Bailey, she's such a wonderful heroine! I'm mostly loving Brandon, and have always loved Cody. This was/is a riveting series.
September 17, 2015
I have mixed feelings about how things are turning out! I loved the book though! Brandon is growing on me & I'm not as mad at Cody anymore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2024
Really, 1.5. I didn't hate it enough to rate it 1 star. But depending on how the next book in the series goes, that may change.
**SPOILERS
I don't really see any point to this book, other than telling us that Bailey's Broadway show ended and now she's going to LA to audition. Other than that, it was her and Cody having the same conversations they've been having for the past several books and acting like they've never had them before and spontaneous dates with Brandon and Bailey that never happen in real life.
I am tired, so tired, of Cody Coleman being worshiped throughout this entire series. Yes, worshiped because his name comes up in nearly every chapter. Ashley and Landon? Somehow find a way to talk about Cody, even though he was a minuscule part of their lives. Baxter family Christmas gathering? Let's find a way to talk about how great Cody is. Bailey talking with her mom about Brandon? Let's not forget to remind her how awesome Cody is.
Just as a reminder of how "awesome" Cody Coleman is? Here's what he said to Bailey:
"Losing you...I wasn't sure I could survive it...So...I told myself it could never work. I walked away instead of believing in us."
Because that's the grown up, manly thing to do.Because that's SOOO mature. How can people stand this guy? "I got scared of losing you, so I ran away before I could." Because that's healthy. Grow up, dude.
And then after ghosting her and treating her like trash and confusing her, she tells him, "I was angry." GASP! Dramatic hand to chest! "You were angry???" Shocker.
I was so mad when Jenny told Bailey to hold off on going to LA because Cody's girlfriend died and "he might need you." For the same thing she could do from home that she could from LA: a phone call??? And then when he shows up,"Hey, why don't you two ex-lovers go out all alone to Lake Monroe even though Bailey's got a boyfriend she's in love with? That sounds like a great idea." I'm glad Jenny admitted she was wrong in the end. If she hadn't, then, yes, this book would have gotten a one-star rating. I'm tired of Cody being worshiped and I'm tired of reading about his and Bailey's relationship. I feel like I'm reading about two high school teens who are exploring the dating world and have no clue what love and romance are.
Again, sorry, sorry for ranting. I hate giving bad reviews to other authors, being one myself, but I just got done reading this book and...ugh. I'm just really frustrated with this series and this cheesy, cringe love story and honestly am looking forward to being done with it. This is basically a retelling of the Firstborn series with nothing new or exciting to add. Male hero is skilled at hiding from the paparazzi, female heroine is wondering if she can handle the life and the paparazzi. I was hoping for so much more out of the Bailey Flanigan series. I hope she ends up with Brandon, I do...anyways, go back to your day, now. :)
**SPOILERS
I don't really see any point to this book, other than telling us that Bailey's Broadway show ended and now she's going to LA to audition. Other than that, it was her and Cody having the same conversations they've been having for the past several books and acting like they've never had them before and spontaneous dates with Brandon and Bailey that never happen in real life.
I am tired, so tired, of Cody Coleman being worshiped throughout this entire series. Yes, worshiped because his name comes up in nearly every chapter. Ashley and Landon? Somehow find a way to talk about Cody, even though he was a minuscule part of their lives. Baxter family Christmas gathering? Let's find a way to talk about how great Cody is. Bailey talking with her mom about Brandon? Let's not forget to remind her how awesome Cody is.
Just as a reminder of how "awesome" Cody Coleman is? Here's what he said to Bailey:
"Losing you...I wasn't sure I could survive it...So...I told myself it could never work. I walked away instead of believing in us."
Because that's the grown up, manly thing to do.Because that's SOOO mature. How can people stand this guy? "I got scared of losing you, so I ran away before I could." Because that's healthy. Grow up, dude.
And then after ghosting her and treating her like trash and confusing her, she tells him, "I was angry." GASP! Dramatic hand to chest! "You were angry???" Shocker.
I was so mad when Jenny told Bailey to hold off on going to LA because Cody's girlfriend died and "he might need you." For the same thing she could do from home that she could from LA: a phone call??? And then when he shows up,"Hey, why don't you two ex-lovers go out all alone to Lake Monroe even though Bailey's got a boyfriend she's in love with? That sounds like a great idea." I'm glad Jenny admitted she was wrong in the end. If she hadn't, then, yes, this book would have gotten a one-star rating. I'm tired of Cody being worshiped and I'm tired of reading about his and Bailey's relationship. I feel like I'm reading about two high school teens who are exploring the dating world and have no clue what love and romance are.
Again, sorry, sorry for ranting. I hate giving bad reviews to other authors, being one myself, but I just got done reading this book and...ugh. I'm just really frustrated with this series and this cheesy, cringe love story and honestly am looking forward to being done with it. This is basically a retelling of the Firstborn series with nothing new or exciting to add. Male hero is skilled at hiding from the paparazzi, female heroine is wondering if she can handle the life and the paparazzi. I was hoping for so much more out of the Bailey Flanigan series. I hope she ends up with Brandon, I do...anyways, go back to your day, now. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2020
Rating: 5 Stars!! (Wish i could rate it 10 Stars!!)
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i wasnt sure if i'd like it or not but OMG i LOVE LOVE LOVE this book and story so much!!
The beginning i was iffy about since Bailey goes between Cody and Brandon even tho she's dating Brandon so that bothered me abit and than i started balling toward the end when Cody's girlfriend got sick but overall i loved this storyline, characters and plot so much!!
I love how Karen covers tough topics that some people are afraid to talk about!! Can't wait to read more in this series in the coming months!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i wasnt sure if i'd like it or not but OMG i LOVE LOVE LOVE this book and story so much!!
The beginning i was iffy about since Bailey goes between Cody and Brandon even tho she's dating Brandon so that bothered me abit and than i started balling toward the end when Cody's girlfriend got sick but overall i loved this storyline, characters and plot so much!!
I love how Karen covers tough topics that some people are afraid to talk about!! Can't wait to read more in this series in the coming months!!
February 16, 2018
3.5 Better than the last one.
January 28, 2012
I was so sure I knew exactly how this series was going to end when I read the 1st book and I was wrong! And normally I like surprises, but just didn't like how this book ended. I read these books when I need something quick, easy...and a little cheesy. Didn't really get that with this one.
This series has tracked the stories of Bailey and Cody, who fell in love and then mysteriously break up for no particular reason. Bailey graduates from college and moves to N.Y. to pursue her Broadway career. Cody also finishes school and becomes a very successful high school football coach. That's what was going on in Books 1 and 2...and I really thought in this 3rd book, they'd end up back together. But that was not the case!
I think the reason I wasn't too happy is because Bailey kind of bothers me because she's too perfect (talented, beautiful...and some big Hollywood actor is now in love with her. Really???). But I like Cody and felt really bad for him. His life's not as perfect and he still clearly has feelings for Bailey. In particular, I felt awful about the life of poor Cheyenne! Cheyenne was the fiance of one of Cody's army buddies from Iraq who ended up being killed in action. Cheyenne had already lost her family & then her fiance dies! However, Cody and her actually kind of start a relationship, but Cody's never completely in-to-her, as he still likes Bailey. And then she gets in a car accident and almost dies! But she survives, and goes through ~6-9 months of painful rehabilitation...to then be diagnosed with brain cancer in the same spot where she had her head injury from the car accident. And then 2 months later, she's dead! It's supposed to be a happy ending for her because she gets to be with her fiance now in heaven...but really? A bit too over-the-top.
So now Bailey's moved to Hollywood to live the dream with her big star boyfriend. (Still don't really like Brandon; their relationship doesn't seem real). And Cody's sitting in Indiana mourning for Cheyenne, realizing he was an idiot for breaking up with Bailey. In the end, he kind of comes to terms with it and realizes they just weren't really meant to be, but I just didn't like it!
Very disappointed my cheesy love story, didn't end up being a love story after all :(
This series has tracked the stories of Bailey and Cody, who fell in love and then mysteriously break up for no particular reason. Bailey graduates from college and moves to N.Y. to pursue her Broadway career. Cody also finishes school and becomes a very successful high school football coach. That's what was going on in Books 1 and 2...and I really thought in this 3rd book, they'd end up back together. But that was not the case!
I think the reason I wasn't too happy is because Bailey kind of bothers me because she's too perfect (talented, beautiful...and some big Hollywood actor is now in love with her. Really???). But I like Cody and felt really bad for him. His life's not as perfect and he still clearly has feelings for Bailey. In particular, I felt awful about the life of poor Cheyenne! Cheyenne was the fiance of one of Cody's army buddies from Iraq who ended up being killed in action. Cheyenne had already lost her family & then her fiance dies! However, Cody and her actually kind of start a relationship, but Cody's never completely in-to-her, as he still likes Bailey. And then she gets in a car accident and almost dies! But she survives, and goes through ~6-9 months of painful rehabilitation...to then be diagnosed with brain cancer in the same spot where she had her head injury from the car accident. And then 2 months later, she's dead! It's supposed to be a happy ending for her because she gets to be with her fiance now in heaven...but really? A bit too over-the-top.
So now Bailey's moved to Hollywood to live the dream with her big star boyfriend. (Still don't really like Brandon; their relationship doesn't seem real). And Cody's sitting in Indiana mourning for Cheyenne, realizing he was an idiot for breaking up with Bailey. In the end, he kind of comes to terms with it and realizes they just weren't really meant to be, but I just didn't like it!
Very disappointed my cheesy love story, didn't end up being a love story after all :(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2011
Even though Cody and Bailey are dating other people, their story is not yet finished. When life events cause their paths to cross, the two must figure out their lingering feelings for each other. Will they return to their first love or discover that your first love isn't always your forever love?
After being disappointed with the first two books in the Bailey Flanigan series, I enjoyed Longing. Bailey finally makes a decision about which man is the one for her. (I won't spoil it for you, but I will say that although I love both Cody and Brandon, the decision is logically and satisfying.) I became frustrated with the first two books because I felt characters I had loved for so long were being destroyed to fill a four-book series. However, this book brought the journey to a close in many ways. Both Bailey and Cody are now completely developed as characters, and as a faithful Karen Kingsbury reader, that was wonderful to read. Although some of the subplots were far-fetched (Cody's football story), the story of Cheyenne was delicately written and touching to read since I have walked that road with someone I love. Now that Bailey has made her choice, I look forward to the fourth book to see her final growth as an adult woman.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
After being disappointed with the first two books in the Bailey Flanigan series, I enjoyed Longing. Bailey finally makes a decision about which man is the one for her. (I won't spoil it for you, but I will say that although I love both Cody and Brandon, the decision is logically and satisfying.) I became frustrated with the first two books because I felt characters I had loved for so long were being destroyed to fill a four-book series. However, this book brought the journey to a close in many ways. Both Bailey and Cody are now completely developed as characters, and as a faithful Karen Kingsbury reader, that was wonderful to read. Although some of the subplots were far-fetched (Cody's football story), the story of Cheyenne was delicately written and touching to read since I have walked that road with someone I love. Now that Bailey has made her choice, I look forward to the fourth book to see her final growth as an adult woman.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
November 3, 2011
I've been waiting (with MUCH anticipation) for 'Longing' and finally I was able to read it! As with the rest of the Bailey Flanigan Series, I was captivated and completely drawn into the story! I read the entire book in one night - it was that good!
I've been rooting for Cody, and even though I find myself liking Brandon's character more and more, I'm still hoping that Bailey ends up marrying Cody.
'Longing' has many happy, wonderful moments; however, there are also some really sad scenes - so have tissues nearby...
'Longing' ended up leaving me with a lot of questions still unanswered, but to me it was a great book that I loved reading and definitely recommend if you enjoy a really good romance that keeps you guessing. I suggest you read the first two books in the series ('Leaving' and 'Learning') before 'Longing'.
I don't know what lies ahead for Bailey, Cody, and Brandon, but I do know that I can hardly wait to read 'Loving' next year and finally know for sure!
*I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done.*
I've been rooting for Cody, and even though I find myself liking Brandon's character more and more, I'm still hoping that Bailey ends up marrying Cody.
'Longing' has many happy, wonderful moments; however, there are also some really sad scenes - so have tissues nearby...
'Longing' ended up leaving me with a lot of questions still unanswered, but to me it was a great book that I loved reading and definitely recommend if you enjoy a really good romance that keeps you guessing. I suggest you read the first two books in the series ('Leaving' and 'Learning') before 'Longing'.
I don't know what lies ahead for Bailey, Cody, and Brandon, but I do know that I can hardly wait to read 'Loving' next year and finally know for sure!
*I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done.*
November 26, 2011
I read through a couple of other reviews to see if someone would say what it is about this book that I didn't like. The closest I could come to, was someone said there was nothing special in it - it was just a Christian romance. That's kind of how I felt - nothing happens in this book. Yes, Bailey seems to reach a decision on which boy she likes, but even that feels tenuous. And yes, things happen with Cheyenne, but I couldn't help feeling that KK was just doing what she should have done in the first book.
The story line with Ashley and Landon, developed as a minor story line in the first two books, comes to an abrupt end in this one. Seems like that story line should never have been developed. I wanted more of Ashley and Landon.
The fourth book does look promising, however. Certainly there are things coming down the road for Brandon that sound interesting. We'll see what KK can do with it.
I think overall, I am disappointed because I didn't feel the same heart wrenching emotion that I have felt in the other books. Not one of KK's best.
The story line with Ashley and Landon, developed as a minor story line in the first two books, comes to an abrupt end in this one. Seems like that story line should never have been developed. I wanted more of Ashley and Landon.
The fourth book does look promising, however. Certainly there are things coming down the road for Brandon that sound interesting. We'll see what KK can do with it.
I think overall, I am disappointed because I didn't feel the same heart wrenching emotion that I have felt in the other books. Not one of KK's best.
August 17, 2013
Great, can't wait for the next book in the series.
January 25, 2025
This is one of my favorites in the series! Lots of emotional moments in this one! God has influenced me greatly through these books!
*Even better with the second reading!
*Even better with the second reading!
August 12, 2013
Overall good, but a lot of back and forth. I just wanted the end to come.
November 17, 2024
Love reading about Bailey, Brandon and Cody.
September 18, 2022
Bailey and Brandon's relationship gets more serious, Cody deals with a tragic loss, and more of the Baxters continue where "Learning" previously left off. This book has more action than "Learning" and the storyline is more enjoyable.
If you are a fan of Bailey and Brandon there is more romance between the characters. Brandon supports Bailey on Broadway, surprises her with romantic gestures, and even wants to propose to her in this book. His character has completely changed from the party and cocky guy that was shown in Take Three and Four. I think it shows how people can change when they accept God in their life because Brandon wants to live his life for God. Bailey also is starting to fall in love with him and is slowly forgetting about her feelings for Cody. She also is starting to consider marrying Brandon and is wondering how to deal with the camera coverage.
Cody's storyline is really tragic in this book because he realizes he loves Bailey more than Cheyenne. He decides to support her once he finds out that she is diagnosed with an incurable brain tumor. Cody also has a chance to talk to Bailey and explain to her why he left. As a fan of Cody, I really wanted him to wind up with Bailey at first but he left her without an explanation. He also didn't tell his army friend's Mom that he had a girlfriend when she was trying to set him up with Cheyenne. It is understandable why Bailey decided to date Brandon because he was actually pursuing her. I don't know if it would have been better for Bailey and Cody to date each other then realize later that their lives are going in two different directions. Brandon could have been a friend to her at first and then they could have eventually started dating. I'm not sure why Karen decided to write their story in that direction. I actually like Brandon and Bailey together although I like Cody with her also.
Cheyenne's storyline is really sad because she realizes that Cody doesn't love her like he does Bailey. The look Cody gives Bailey at the game proves that he truly loves Bailey. She does try to help him realize his feelings for Bailey and Cody does stick with her through her illness. I wonder what would have happened between them if she had gotten better.
The only positive thing in Cody's life is his position as a coach and how he is transforming his players lives. One of the playes decides to become a pastor, and the team has a winning season against some tough teams. Cody is also offered a job at the high school where Bailey Flagnian's Dad works.
Bailey's parents have more of a role in the book. Bailey's Mom is praying for her daughter and Cody to find their way back to each other. She does notice how Brandon treats Bailey and his kindness.
If you are a fan of Bailey and Brandon there is more romance between the characters. Brandon supports Bailey on Broadway, surprises her with romantic gestures, and even wants to propose to her in this book. His character has completely changed from the party and cocky guy that was shown in Take Three and Four. I think it shows how people can change when they accept God in their life because Brandon wants to live his life for God. Bailey also is starting to fall in love with him and is slowly forgetting about her feelings for Cody. She also is starting to consider marrying Brandon and is wondering how to deal with the camera coverage.
Cody's storyline is really tragic in this book because he realizes he loves Bailey more than Cheyenne. He decides to support her once he finds out that she is diagnosed with an incurable brain tumor. Cody also has a chance to talk to Bailey and explain to her why he left. As a fan of Cody, I really wanted him to wind up with Bailey at first but he left her without an explanation. He also didn't tell his army friend's Mom that he had a girlfriend when she was trying to set him up with Cheyenne. It is understandable why Bailey decided to date Brandon because he was actually pursuing her. I don't know if it would have been better for Bailey and Cody to date each other then realize later that their lives are going in two different directions. Brandon could have been a friend to her at first and then they could have eventually started dating. I'm not sure why Karen decided to write their story in that direction. I actually like Brandon and Bailey together although I like Cody with her also.
Cheyenne's storyline is really sad because she realizes that Cody doesn't love her like he does Bailey. The look Cody gives Bailey at the game proves that he truly loves Bailey. She does try to help him realize his feelings for Bailey and Cody does stick with her through her illness. I wonder what would have happened between them if she had gotten better.
The only positive thing in Cody's life is his position as a coach and how he is transforming his players lives. One of the playes decides to become a pastor, and the team has a winning season against some tough teams. Cody is also offered a job at the high school where Bailey Flagnian's Dad works.
Bailey's parents have more of a role in the book. Bailey's Mom is praying for her daughter and Cody to find their way back to each other. She does notice how Brandon treats Bailey and his kindness.
February 28, 2017
This book picks up where Learning ends. Bailey is continuing to work on Broadway and to develop her relationship with Brandon. They have the incredible opportunity of being in New York together for several weeks as his work brings him to New York. They really appear to be falling in love and spinning off into their own happy ending.
Meanwhile, Cody's experiencing great professional success as a football coach. His love life isn't so great as his girlfriend, Cheyenne, is given a horrifying diagnosis. Even as he cares for Cheyenne, he can't help but experience terrible feelings of longing for Bailey. Will he tell Bailey how he feels? Will he fight for her? Will they be together?
This book is a quite satisfying read in the Bailey Flanigan series. The relationships deepen. Both main characters go through quite a bit of emotional growth. All seems to be ticking towards a happy ending for Bailey, but I'm still hoping that Cody gets a happy ending too. He certainly deserves one after all he's walked through.
Here are my perspectives on each of the point-of-view characters. There are spoilers ahead:
Bailey: She's in love. She's happy. She loves Broadway and the people in her Bible study. She increasingly loves Brandon and the time she spends with him. After a couple of serious conversations with Cody in this book, we see that she has emotionally put Cody in the "friend zone," and she's ready to move on with her life. The only wrinkle in her life is when the Broadway show she's working on closes down and she's not sure what direction to go in after that. She's moved in with Katy and Dayne Matthews, and is experimenting with life in Los Angeles, proving that she's getting closer and closer to a happy ending with Brandon.
Cody: He's going through an excellent time professionally as his team wins the state championship and he's getting attention from Sports Illustrated. He's also getting job offers from other teams. He is not walking through as great a time emotionally. He doesn't feel that he's in love with his girlfriend, Cheyenne, but she receives a terminal cancer diagnosis, and his love for her is strong enough that he walks with her through the diagnosis. He experiences such pain, and at time needs the comfort of God and of his surrogate father, Jim Flanigan. He also realizes, through his conversations with Cheyenne, that he does not truly love Bailey, but he loves the idea of Bailey. He tells Bailey that, and he apologizes for the way that he has treated her. I would be really surprised if he and Bailey were to get together at this point, so I hope the author doesn't try to force them together in the next book.
Brandon: Brandon walks through a lot of jealousy as Bailey is gaining closure with Cody. He also wants to propose to Bailey, but hasn't found the right timing. He's on the cusp of signing a major seven picture deal with a Hollywood studio, but Dayne Matthews has put some questions into his mind that make him wonder about the wisdom of his choices. He realizes that he needs to spend more time in God's word and that he needs to stop and think about the choices that he's making.
Ashley: Ashley's barely in the book, and it's just to show a Baxter Christmas celebration, and to announce Landon and Ryan both have new careers. Ryan is going to be coaching with the Indianapolis Colts. Landon is going to be doing drug education in the local schools. We also get a mini update on each of the Baxters, but really Dayne is the only Baxter that's in this book more than just a little bit.
Katy: Katy is a voice of calm and reason for Bailey. She's the big sister figure who has been there and done that with the paparazzi. She is supportive and she allows Bailey to move in with her and Dayne while Bailey is trying to start a career in Hollywood. We also get some great scenes with Katy, Dayne and their little girl through Katy's eyes. Love having her back in the story.
Jenny: Jenny's in the story to give a shoulder to cry on for Bailey during all Bailey's tough times. She also showcases what the other Flanigans are up to during this book. She shows the impact of Landon's new job. She also meddles a little and tries to push Cody and Bailey together because of her love for Cody and because she's always thought that no one would love Bailey the way that Cody did. At the end of the book, she confesses to her husband the way that she's tried to control her daughter's love life and how she's going to give up trying to control things. (As a Mom, I say, we'll see how that goes! LOL)
That's about it for this book. It was a truly lovely book, and I really liked it and sped through it. I plan to also quickly speed through the next book. I've realized that I'm only a couple of books away from having my Baxter journey to be over. Even though I am excited to move on to some new books, I will be sad to leave their world since I've grown so used to it.
Meanwhile, Cody's experiencing great professional success as a football coach. His love life isn't so great as his girlfriend, Cheyenne, is given a horrifying diagnosis. Even as he cares for Cheyenne, he can't help but experience terrible feelings of longing for Bailey. Will he tell Bailey how he feels? Will he fight for her? Will they be together?
This book is a quite satisfying read in the Bailey Flanigan series. The relationships deepen. Both main characters go through quite a bit of emotional growth. All seems to be ticking towards a happy ending for Bailey, but I'm still hoping that Cody gets a happy ending too. He certainly deserves one after all he's walked through.
Here are my perspectives on each of the point-of-view characters. There are spoilers ahead:
Bailey: She's in love. She's happy. She loves Broadway and the people in her Bible study. She increasingly loves Brandon and the time she spends with him. After a couple of serious conversations with Cody in this book, we see that she has emotionally put Cody in the "friend zone," and she's ready to move on with her life. The only wrinkle in her life is when the Broadway show she's working on closes down and she's not sure what direction to go in after that. She's moved in with Katy and Dayne Matthews, and is experimenting with life in Los Angeles, proving that she's getting closer and closer to a happy ending with Brandon.
Cody: He's going through an excellent time professionally as his team wins the state championship and he's getting attention from Sports Illustrated. He's also getting job offers from other teams. He is not walking through as great a time emotionally. He doesn't feel that he's in love with his girlfriend, Cheyenne, but she receives a terminal cancer diagnosis, and his love for her is strong enough that he walks with her through the diagnosis. He experiences such pain, and at time needs the comfort of God and of his surrogate father, Jim Flanigan. He also realizes, through his conversations with Cheyenne, that he does not truly love Bailey, but he loves the idea of Bailey. He tells Bailey that, and he apologizes for the way that he has treated her. I would be really surprised if he and Bailey were to get together at this point, so I hope the author doesn't try to force them together in the next book.
Brandon: Brandon walks through a lot of jealousy as Bailey is gaining closure with Cody. He also wants to propose to Bailey, but hasn't found the right timing. He's on the cusp of signing a major seven picture deal with a Hollywood studio, but Dayne Matthews has put some questions into his mind that make him wonder about the wisdom of his choices. He realizes that he needs to spend more time in God's word and that he needs to stop and think about the choices that he's making.
Ashley: Ashley's barely in the book, and it's just to show a Baxter Christmas celebration, and to announce Landon and Ryan both have new careers. Ryan is going to be coaching with the Indianapolis Colts. Landon is going to be doing drug education in the local schools. We also get a mini update on each of the Baxters, but really Dayne is the only Baxter that's in this book more than just a little bit.
Katy: Katy is a voice of calm and reason for Bailey. She's the big sister figure who has been there and done that with the paparazzi. She is supportive and she allows Bailey to move in with her and Dayne while Bailey is trying to start a career in Hollywood. We also get some great scenes with Katy, Dayne and their little girl through Katy's eyes. Love having her back in the story.
Jenny: Jenny's in the story to give a shoulder to cry on for Bailey during all Bailey's tough times. She also showcases what the other Flanigans are up to during this book. She shows the impact of Landon's new job. She also meddles a little and tries to push Cody and Bailey together because of her love for Cody and because she's always thought that no one would love Bailey the way that Cody did. At the end of the book, she confesses to her husband the way that she's tried to control her daughter's love life and how she's going to give up trying to control things. (As a Mom, I say, we'll see how that goes! LOL)
That's about it for this book. It was a truly lovely book, and I really liked it and sped through it. I plan to also quickly speed through the next book. I've realized that I'm only a couple of books away from having my Baxter journey to be over. Even though I am excited to move on to some new books, I will be sad to leave their world since I've grown so used to it.
June 10, 2023
“Sometimes first love isn’t the only love”
THE SEAWEED RING, I REPEAT THE SEAWEED RING.
okay in this book things are getting a lot more serious between brandon and bailey AND ALL BRANDON CAN THINK ABOUT IS MARRYING BAILEY 🥹🥹 I felt really bad for Cody in this book with Cheyenne. but i loveeeee how much Brandon trusts bailey with Cody and doesn’t act all possessive and toxic. Hahaha it killed me when brandon and cody both saw each other across the room at Baileys show. AND WHEN BRANDON DEFENDS AND PUNCHES THE PAPARAZZI WHOOOOO YESSS KING!!!!!! He is so protective of bailey 🥹🥹🥹 I just really hope things go well for bailey in LA and that brandon doesn’t take that movie deal. But they are also so young! only 22 and 24. Sooo like, brandon can’t just give up acting. But I JUST NEED TO SEE B+B HAPPY IN LOVE, MARRIED, WITH LITTLE BABIES AGHHHH!!! Cody is soooo freaking disappointing 🙄😡😡 The fact that he called bailey to talk JUST to tell her he felt like they were never meant to be?!?! If he TRULY loved her, he would be doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to be with her. Fighting for her. But he walked away. He doesn’t truly love her!! He just loves the idea of her and he loves being apart of their family. But he even walked away from that too! 😠
Brandon is so secure in his love for bailey!!! he would shout it from the rooftops! he actually has haha!!! it’s so cute when he was like baileys mom and I are like this 🤞🏼🥹 Cody is just too insecure and filled with shame. But brandon is walking into all the love they have for him. He is embracing it, not running.
Anyways, here we gooooo last book!!!!! I’m not ready 🥹🥹🥹😭😭😭 but also ready to see a B+B wedding heheheh 👀👀😌
THE SEAWEED RING, I REPEAT THE SEAWEED RING.
okay in this book things are getting a lot more serious between brandon and bailey AND ALL BRANDON CAN THINK ABOUT IS MARRYING BAILEY 🥹🥹 I felt really bad for Cody in this book with Cheyenne. but i loveeeee how much Brandon trusts bailey with Cody and doesn’t act all possessive and toxic. Hahaha it killed me when brandon and cody both saw each other across the room at Baileys show. AND WHEN BRANDON DEFENDS AND PUNCHES THE PAPARAZZI WHOOOOO YESSS KING!!!!!! He is so protective of bailey 🥹🥹🥹 I just really hope things go well for bailey in LA and that brandon doesn’t take that movie deal. But they are also so young! only 22 and 24. Sooo like, brandon can’t just give up acting. But I JUST NEED TO SEE B+B HAPPY IN LOVE, MARRIED, WITH LITTLE BABIES AGHHHH!!! Cody is soooo freaking disappointing 🙄😡😡 The fact that he called bailey to talk JUST to tell her he felt like they were never meant to be?!?! If he TRULY loved her, he would be doing WHATEVER IT TAKES to be with her. Fighting for her. But he walked away. He doesn’t truly love her!! He just loves the idea of her and he loves being apart of their family. But he even walked away from that too! 😠
Brandon is so secure in his love for bailey!!! he would shout it from the rooftops! he actually has haha!!! it’s so cute when he was like baileys mom and I are like this 🤞🏼🥹 Cody is just too insecure and filled with shame. But brandon is walking into all the love they have for him. He is embracing it, not running.
Anyways, here we gooooo last book!!!!! I’m not ready 🥹🥹🥹😭😭😭 but also ready to see a B+B wedding heheheh 👀👀😌
September 2, 2022
Overall Amanda rating: A
SO I am still loving the Christian aspect that has been placed in each of these books. I am loving the family dynamic with Bailey, her siblings, and her parents. I think that this author is doing a great job when it comes to writing a clean, pretty story. As for the relationship triangle, I think that it can be handled better. I think that their problems are some that can be better understood with growth and maturity.
Bailey and Cody- these two were best friends. They grew up together and the town just always assumed that they would end up together. As I was reading their dynamic I saw all the reasons why it wouldn't work between them. I think that dating actually ruined what could have been a beautiful friendship.
Bailey and Brandon- I think that this couple is a better fit, although they are both still young and have a lot of learning to do. Relationships take work and learning and compromise. They are chasing their careers and each other, they are trying to pray and seek but they are starting to get a little blinded.
Cody and Cheyenne- She knows He will never love her the way she needs to be loved. And she will always be in love with Art. They tried the dating thing, and Cody did right by her by being there for her in her time of need. Cheyenne did right by her by showing him what his true feelings were for Bailey.
Andi- I love this character. Karen did an amazing job writing her character, her past, and her struggles. It was all very accurate. I think I know how she needs to fit in the picture.....
SO I am still loving the Christian aspect that has been placed in each of these books. I am loving the family dynamic with Bailey, her siblings, and her parents. I think that this author is doing a great job when it comes to writing a clean, pretty story. As for the relationship triangle, I think that it can be handled better. I think that their problems are some that can be better understood with growth and maturity.
Bailey and Cody- these two were best friends. They grew up together and the town just always assumed that they would end up together. As I was reading their dynamic I saw all the reasons why it wouldn't work between them. I think that dating actually ruined what could have been a beautiful friendship.
Bailey and Brandon- I think that this couple is a better fit, although they are both still young and have a lot of learning to do. Relationships take work and learning and compromise. They are chasing their careers and each other, they are trying to pray and seek but they are starting to get a little blinded.
Cody and Cheyenne- She knows He will never love her the way she needs to be loved. And she will always be in love with Art. They tried the dating thing, and Cody did right by her by being there for her in her time of need. Cheyenne did right by her by showing him what his true feelings were for Bailey.
Andi- I love this character. Karen did an amazing job writing her character, her past, and her struggles. It was all very accurate. I think I know how she needs to fit in the picture.....
September 23, 2022
This is the third book from the Bailey Flanigan series and the 21st book from the Baxter Family series.
I have to give Kingsbury credit. I thought long ago that I knew how the Bailey/Cody/Brandon story would finish. I have to admit I am not so sure now. The book rotates from what is going on with Bailey on Broadway and her relationship with movie star Brandon Paul; and what is going on with Cody who coaches a small Indiana High School football team to a mythical state championship and his girlfriend Cheyenne who gets horrible news.
Cheyenne has a prophetic analysis of Cody and Bailey before she leaves us, while Brandon is really putting in a huge effort to win Bailey's heart. His romantic side puts all of us to shame. If in the final book Kingsbury takes the relationships where they appear to be heading I will give her credit for avoiding the ending most people would have wanted. We shall see.
Brandon/Bailey is a little too much like Dayne/Katy. I really got tired of them and we appear to be getting more of that with different first names.
As with all of Kingsbury's books, I enjoy how she brings out God's Word to address problems the characters have to deal with throughout the story. Yes, the characters appear to live charmed lives but bad things do happen to them, as they do to all of us.
I have to give Kingsbury credit. I thought long ago that I knew how the Bailey/Cody/Brandon story would finish. I have to admit I am not so sure now. The book rotates from what is going on with Bailey on Broadway and her relationship with movie star Brandon Paul; and what is going on with Cody who coaches a small Indiana High School football team to a mythical state championship and his girlfriend Cheyenne who gets horrible news.
Cheyenne has a prophetic analysis of Cody and Bailey before she leaves us, while Brandon is really putting in a huge effort to win Bailey's heart. His romantic side puts all of us to shame. If in the final book Kingsbury takes the relationships where they appear to be heading I will give her credit for avoiding the ending most people would have wanted. We shall see.
Brandon/Bailey is a little too much like Dayne/Katy. I really got tired of them and we appear to be getting more of that with different first names.
As with all of Kingsbury's books, I enjoy how she brings out God's Word to address problems the characters have to deal with throughout the story. Yes, the characters appear to live charmed lives but bad things do happen to them, as they do to all of us.
April 5, 2024
It definitely got more real in this book. Still everything seems just a little too perfect. The choices are too careful and well thought out. The drama (which is plenty) is always taken in strides.. I feel like sometimes it is ok to feel things dramatically and to put a fist through the wall when somebody you love dies. That really is not a lack of faith to me. For me this book is on the line of setting a good example for young girls and setting an unattainable goal for them.. Because how could you ever live up to Bailey Flanigan? And why would you want to? To get your dream job (two or three times over), to have two of the most amazing men ever loving you unconditionally, to guide christian peers, have amazing family and friends and help people find Jesus... What more could a girl want?
Also... I really can't help it but I am still team Cody.. I really dislike the way that for books and books on end (up until half this novel) we were supposed to hold out hope for him.. and now it is clear that he is back in the friendzone.
Also... I really can't help it but I am still team Cody.. I really dislike the way that for books and books on end (up until half this novel) we were supposed to hold out hope for him.. and now it is clear that he is back in the friendzone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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