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From This Day Forward
When a couple gets married, it isn't just their lives that are thrown into chaos.
For Nicholas and Nala's wedding, there's the mother of the bride who is forced to face her failed marriage; there mother of the groom, who revisits her past -- an old love; the bride's best friend who has lost the only boy she thinks she will ever love and with him, all her happiness; the bride's cousin who fooled around with her boyfriend's best friend (who inconveniently turns out to be the groom); and the groom's sister who cannot understand her brother's choice of a future wife.
Surrounding the bride and groom's happiness are the heartache, joys, hopes, dreams and realizations of the people who care about them. It makes you think: does everybody get a chance at happily ever after?
For Nicholas and Nala's wedding, there's the mother of the bride who is forced to face her failed marriage; there mother of the groom, who revisits her past -- an old love; the bride's best friend who has lost the only boy she thinks she will ever love and with him, all her happiness; the bride's cousin who fooled around with her boyfriend's best friend (who inconveniently turns out to be the groom); and the groom's sister who cannot understand her brother's choice of a future wife.
Surrounding the bride and groom's happiness are the heartache, joys, hopes, dreams and realizations of the people who care about them. It makes you think: does everybody get a chance at happily ever after?
144 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2012
10 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Marla Miniano
13 books119 followersSince she was a third-grader, Marla Miniano already knew she wanted to write. But it wasn't until she was in the sixth grade when she unofficially began her career as a writer. Marla was assigned to write the script for a play in their school program and her English teacher praised her writing, saying that she should keep doing it. She never stopped since then.
When she was studying AB Interdisciplinary Studies at the Ateneo de Manila University, Marla became a part of Candy Magazine 's Council of Cool. Former Candy editor-in-chief Ines Bautista-Yao read Marla's undergraduate thesis, which was a collection of short stories. Ines remembered her thesis years later when she was already working for Candy Magazine and tapped her to write a book for Summit Media.
So in 2008, two years after she graduated from college, Marla's dream came true when her first book Every Girl's Guide to Heartache was launched to the public by Summit Media. Every Girl's Guide to Heartache was the first of the Every Girl's Guide trilogy which was received well by Filipino readers.
Since then Marla has written five books for the publishing house, including her very own short stories collection Table for Two. Marla is also editor-in-chief of Summit Books at present.
Source:
Marla Miniano: From Childhood Playwright to Summit Books Author by Belle Yambao
When she was studying AB Interdisciplinary Studies at the Ateneo de Manila University, Marla became a part of Candy Magazine 's Council of Cool. Former Candy editor-in-chief Ines Bautista-Yao read Marla's undergraduate thesis, which was a collection of short stories. Ines remembered her thesis years later when she was already working for Candy Magazine and tapped her to write a book for Summit Media.
So in 2008, two years after she graduated from college, Marla's dream came true when her first book Every Girl's Guide to Heartache was launched to the public by Summit Media. Every Girl's Guide to Heartache was the first of the Every Girl's Guide trilogy which was received well by Filipino readers.
Since then Marla has written five books for the publishing house, including her very own short stories collection Table for Two. Marla is also editor-in-chief of Summit Books at present.
Source:
Marla Miniano: From Childhood Playwright to Summit Books Author by Belle Yambao
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 4, 2016
An indulging first read from Miniano. Nicholas and Nala decide to take risk, they want to tie the knot, but it involves lots of people in the game of love: Nala’s mother trapped from her past marriage, the groom’s mother who once again face her old lover, the best friend’s tragic love story, a love theft from Nicholas’ past and the sister that will never understand his choices, and a household tour from the future. All of these people only wanted one thing, a happily ever after.
This is not your typical boy-meets-girl story. From This Day Forward is a love story told by different short stories. It plays around its form. Short stories that doesn’t directly tell Nicholas and Nala’s pa-tweetums, instead to the people that surround them. Love in different forms from different lives without overshadowing the main premise of the story with an effortless progress to stay faithful to Nicholas and Nala. I respect Miniano's ingenuity from her novel.
Though it was written carefully, some of the stories does not match the same level of satisfaction. Some, especially the second point of view, need a special taste and attention. Some, especially the poetry collection, need to polish. Some stories need longer word count. For Miniano, writing this would be the whole wedding cake—aesthetically beautiful, but hard to perfect inside. Like the note reads, Be safe and be brave. And if you can, please be both at the same time. For the readers, it is a fun and bloated one-sitting novel.
This is not your typical boy-meets-girl story. From This Day Forward is a love story told by different short stories. It plays around its form. Short stories that doesn’t directly tell Nicholas and Nala’s pa-tweetums, instead to the people that surround them. Love in different forms from different lives without overshadowing the main premise of the story with an effortless progress to stay faithful to Nicholas and Nala. I respect Miniano's ingenuity from her novel.
Though it was written carefully, some of the stories does not match the same level of satisfaction. Some, especially the second point of view, need a special taste and attention. Some, especially the poetry collection, need to polish. Some stories need longer word count. For Miniano, writing this would be the whole wedding cake—aesthetically beautiful, but hard to perfect inside. Like the note reads, Be safe and be brave. And if you can, please be both at the same time. For the readers, it is a fun and bloated one-sitting novel.
January 7, 2013
Original post from One More Page
When a couple gets married, it's easy to think that only their lives will change since they're really the star the wedding and the marriage that comes after. It's easy to think that way since all spotlight is turned to them, but have we ever considered what happens to the lives of the people around them? Case in point: one of my closest friend's sister got married last December, and she told me that she and their youngest sister spent the next few days crying because they missed their sister so much. You'd think the sister who got married was all happy because she was now living with her husband, but no -- the married sister was also crying her eyes out of homesickness and separation anxiety for the people at home.
There wasn't much drama in my home when my brother got married, although it did take me a little time to get used to the fact that I can't just barge into the condo where my brother lives anytime I want, or he can't stay too late at our house because he has another home now. Oh, don't get me wrong -- I love my sister-in-law and there's no discord among us. I just needed some time to adjust to the fact that my brother's priorities had changed, which meant ours had to as well.
This is what Marla Miniano's latest book, From This Day Forward , talk about -- how the lives of the people around the couple are also changed once two people decide to get married. Similar to one of her previous books, Table for Two , From This Day Forward contains interconnected stories that revolve around a major catalyst: main characters Nala and Nicholas' decision to get married. There's the story of Nala's mom when Nala tells her that she was engaged, and Nicholas' mom who goes off to see an old flame after finding out about the engagement. There's Nala's best friend, who lost the guy she loved and could never get him back, to Nala's cousin who had a complicated relationship with her boyfriend's best friend...who is also incidentally, the groom. The stories are told in different formats and styles -- the straightforward storytelling, third and second person POV, poetry, letters and diary entries -- but all revolving around the two main characters, their families and their friends.
If you've read Marla's Table for Two , From This Day Forward has a pretty similar structure, but instead of absolutely random characters who have little connections, we have a cast that have better connections with each other. I liked that about this book, and I felt that it was easier to get into the story of these people because of the closer connections. As usual, there's a certain elegance with the way Marla writes, each word chosen with care to deliver the right punch, but not too flowery that it feels too dramatic. I reveled in these words, and the characters jumped out at me, almost like they were real people instead of just people from a 144-page book. It feels like readers will relate to a bit of each story here, or maybe even find a friend in one of the characters.
I liked From This Day Forward a bit more than I liked Table for Two because of the stronger connections, although I felt that the last story could have tied up the loose ends from the other characters better. But if we were to be realistic, anyway, when did loose ends in life ever tie up neatly? I liked how Marla ended the book with a quote from her first novel, almost like she was paying a homage of sorts to where she started:
After reading this book, I realized that I have become a Marla Miniano completist too. :) I guess it was the right timing too because soon after I got this, I met her in person when I attended her Letters Out Loud event and had my copy signed:
So if you're looking for a quick, romantic and sentimental read, or if you have someone close to you who's tying the knot soon and you're feeling some kind of jitters but don't know why, then you probably want to pick up a copy of From This Day Forward . :)
When a couple gets married, it's easy to think that only their lives will change since they're really the star the wedding and the marriage that comes after. It's easy to think that way since all spotlight is turned to them, but have we ever considered what happens to the lives of the people around them? Case in point: one of my closest friend's sister got married last December, and she told me that she and their youngest sister spent the next few days crying because they missed their sister so much. You'd think the sister who got married was all happy because she was now living with her husband, but no -- the married sister was also crying her eyes out of homesickness and separation anxiety for the people at home.
There wasn't much drama in my home when my brother got married, although it did take me a little time to get used to the fact that I can't just barge into the condo where my brother lives anytime I want, or he can't stay too late at our house because he has another home now. Oh, don't get me wrong -- I love my sister-in-law and there's no discord among us. I just needed some time to adjust to the fact that my brother's priorities had changed, which meant ours had to as well.
This is what Marla Miniano's latest book, From This Day Forward , talk about -- how the lives of the people around the couple are also changed once two people decide to get married. Similar to one of her previous books, Table for Two , From This Day Forward contains interconnected stories that revolve around a major catalyst: main characters Nala and Nicholas' decision to get married. There's the story of Nala's mom when Nala tells her that she was engaged, and Nicholas' mom who goes off to see an old flame after finding out about the engagement. There's Nala's best friend, who lost the guy she loved and could never get him back, to Nala's cousin who had a complicated relationship with her boyfriend's best friend...who is also incidentally, the groom. The stories are told in different formats and styles -- the straightforward storytelling, third and second person POV, poetry, letters and diary entries -- but all revolving around the two main characters, their families and their friends.
If you've read Marla's Table for Two , From This Day Forward has a pretty similar structure, but instead of absolutely random characters who have little connections, we have a cast that have better connections with each other. I liked that about this book, and I felt that it was easier to get into the story of these people because of the closer connections. As usual, there's a certain elegance with the way Marla writes, each word chosen with care to deliver the right punch, but not too flowery that it feels too dramatic. I reveled in these words, and the characters jumped out at me, almost like they were real people instead of just people from a 144-page book. It feels like readers will relate to a bit of each story here, or maybe even find a friend in one of the characters.
I liked From This Day Forward a bit more than I liked Table for Two because of the stronger connections, although I felt that the last story could have tied up the loose ends from the other characters better. But if we were to be realistic, anyway, when did loose ends in life ever tie up neatly? I liked how Marla ended the book with a quote from her first novel, almost like she was paying a homage of sorts to where she started:
Matter occupies space, and I know -- I guess I always have -- that I can only have space for the things that matter.
After reading this book, I realized that I have become a Marla Miniano completist too. :) I guess it was the right timing too because soon after I got this, I met her in person when I attended her Letters Out Loud event and had my copy signed:
So if you're looking for a quick, romantic and sentimental read, or if you have someone close to you who's tying the knot soon and you're feeling some kind of jitters but don't know why, then you probably want to pick up a copy of From This Day Forward . :)
January 2, 2015
This reminds me of A Visit from the Goon Squad. More thoughts later.
***REVIEW UPDATE***
May is my second most favorite month because it’s my wedding anniversary month, and as part of the celebration of my first wedding anniversary, I chose Marla Miniano’s From This Day Forward as one of my required readings for the month. I really thought that this will be a feel-good-warm-and-fuzzy story. But I was wrong. I was misled by the title! Haha. :D
Even though I was wrong with my expectations, I was not disappointed with how the book turned out. There were no fuzzy warm feelings but I got to realize that a wedding can affect not only the couple but the people around them too. Isn’t it a fact that when you get married, all you ever think about is how your life will change? Well, I did.
I got married last year and while wedding preparations were under way, all I ever thought about was how my life will change and how my priorities will adjust and how I will finally get to live my own life. I didn’t really stop to think deeply about what my parents and siblings thought or what my friends are saying. Well, maybe it’s just fortunate that they already freely gave their blessing to me when I announced the engagement by expressing excitement and joy, so I was at peace. But to really ask them what they felt, especially my family? I guess I missed out on that one, and I felt guilty.
Reading this book now made me think how selfish I was that time. But who can blame me? I was not only giddy with excitement — I was overwhelmed with this life-altering decision I have ever made in my whole life.
From This Day Forward is very easy to read as it is short and the writing is straightforward. My only complaint is that I read this after I’ve finished A Visit From The Goon Squad and I can’t help but see the similarities in style. Both books have chapters devoted separately to different characters, and each chapter has a different style. There’s a chapter using the first person narrative, another chapter using the third person, a chapter which consists only of poems. In A Visit From The Goon Squad, each of the chapter also has different voices and style — i.e. the Power Point presentation chapter, the newspaper article chapter — and because of these similarities I can’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, Marla got her inspiration from this Nobel awardee?
This is my first Marla Miniano, and although I am not totally won over by this first read, I am definitely still eager to read her other books.
Also posted in It's A Wonderful Bookworld.
***REVIEW UPDATE***
May is my second most favorite month because it’s my wedding anniversary month, and as part of the celebration of my first wedding anniversary, I chose Marla Miniano’s From This Day Forward as one of my required readings for the month. I really thought that this will be a feel-good-warm-and-fuzzy story. But I was wrong. I was misled by the title! Haha. :D
Even though I was wrong with my expectations, I was not disappointed with how the book turned out. There were no fuzzy warm feelings but I got to realize that a wedding can affect not only the couple but the people around them too. Isn’t it a fact that when you get married, all you ever think about is how your life will change? Well, I did.
I got married last year and while wedding preparations were under way, all I ever thought about was how my life will change and how my priorities will adjust and how I will finally get to live my own life. I didn’t really stop to think deeply about what my parents and siblings thought or what my friends are saying. Well, maybe it’s just fortunate that they already freely gave their blessing to me when I announced the engagement by expressing excitement and joy, so I was at peace. But to really ask them what they felt, especially my family? I guess I missed out on that one, and I felt guilty.
Reading this book now made me think how selfish I was that time. But who can blame me? I was not only giddy with excitement — I was overwhelmed with this life-altering decision I have ever made in my whole life.
From This Day Forward is very easy to read as it is short and the writing is straightforward. My only complaint is that I read this after I’ve finished A Visit From The Goon Squad and I can’t help but see the similarities in style. Both books have chapters devoted separately to different characters, and each chapter has a different style. There’s a chapter using the first person narrative, another chapter using the third person, a chapter which consists only of poems. In A Visit From The Goon Squad, each of the chapter also has different voices and style — i.e. the Power Point presentation chapter, the newspaper article chapter — and because of these similarities I can’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, Marla got her inspiration from this Nobel awardee?
This is my first Marla Miniano, and although I am not totally won over by this first read, I am definitely still eager to read her other books.
Also posted in It's A Wonderful Bookworld.
December 28, 2012
First up, Kudos to Miss Marla for creating such a wondrous book. I would've given this a five but I wanted something in the end and didn't get it...However, it doesn't change the fact that it's a beautiful book. Let's start from the beginning...
Homecoming
The story started with Nala coming home to her mother to tell her the big news that she's engaged. Fears and hopes and kept feelings ensue, and so does the pain of coming from a broken family--of the pain of love and loss. Beautiful imagery, beautiful thoughts...but you couldn't help but wish that there was some happy ending for Nala's mother--or at least a resolution. And who really is Don? We'll never know. Still, I'm wishing and hoping that he's making Nala's mom happy.
Safe and Brave
"Be safe and be brave, and if you can, be both at the same time.
The story of Carmen, Nicholas's mom, who met up again with an old flame. Lots of life lessons about the harsh realities of love and relationships. Sometimes, reality really bites and makes you realize how you can't always be safe, and brave at the same time.
The only single girl on New Year's Eve
“You can’t help wondering if this is the year that you’d be getting a good story again. It was the same thing you wondered last year, and the year before that, and the year before that. In light of everything and in spite of everything, it seems foolish to expect and demand for anything. It seems foolish to even hope. Yet, you still do.” <.i>
My favorite part of this book. Your heart will break for Nala's bestfriend. You'll wish her a happy ending. And you'll think about life, and the things in between.
The Middle
Annie's story. Nala's cousin who once fell for Nicholas. I wish she explored this story better, but otherwise, it's good and realistic.
It's Complicated
pieces from Nala's mind. Thoughts about life, love, death, and everything else. Beautiful and poetic.
A very strange aversion for a modern person
Letters from Nala to Laura, Nicholas' cousin, and vice-versa. Real thoughts. Beautiful.
House Tour
From the daughter of Nicholas and Nala's perspective. A look at how their lives turned out. Beautiful, but I wish there were resolutions to everything and for everyone, especially for Nala's bestfriend, and for Laura. However, this chapter reminds us that not everyone may get that happy ending--that sometimes, life sucks, period, but then there's always hope...
"Matter occupies space--and you can only have space for things that matter.
Homecoming
The story started with Nala coming home to her mother to tell her the big news that she's engaged. Fears and hopes and kept feelings ensue, and so does the pain of coming from a broken family--of the pain of love and loss. Beautiful imagery, beautiful thoughts...but you couldn't help but wish that there was some happy ending for Nala's mother--or at least a resolution. And who really is Don? We'll never know. Still, I'm wishing and hoping that he's making Nala's mom happy.
Safe and Brave
"Be safe and be brave, and if you can, be both at the same time.
The story of Carmen, Nicholas's mom, who met up again with an old flame. Lots of life lessons about the harsh realities of love and relationships. Sometimes, reality really bites and makes you realize how you can't always be safe, and brave at the same time.
The only single girl on New Year's Eve
“You can’t help wondering if this is the year that you’d be getting a good story again. It was the same thing you wondered last year, and the year before that, and the year before that. In light of everything and in spite of everything, it seems foolish to expect and demand for anything. It seems foolish to even hope. Yet, you still do.” <.i>
My favorite part of this book. Your heart will break for Nala's bestfriend. You'll wish her a happy ending. And you'll think about life, and the things in between.
The Middle
Annie's story. Nala's cousin who once fell for Nicholas. I wish she explored this story better, but otherwise, it's good and realistic.
It's Complicated
pieces from Nala's mind. Thoughts about life, love, death, and everything else. Beautiful and poetic.
A very strange aversion for a modern person
Letters from Nala to Laura, Nicholas' cousin, and vice-versa. Real thoughts. Beautiful.
House Tour
From the daughter of Nicholas and Nala's perspective. A look at how their lives turned out. Beautiful, but I wish there were resolutions to everything and for everyone, especially for Nala's bestfriend, and for Laura. However, this chapter reminds us that not everyone may get that happy ending--that sometimes, life sucks, period, but then there's always hope...
"Matter occupies space--and you can only have space for things that matter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2013
My thoughts, inspired by the book.
The concept of reading different character’s point of view and share of story, revolving one central topic never fails to entice my reading eyes. With a different style of melancholy, From This Day Forward is divided in 7 chapters, focusing on each character’s story. Here we will read about the different stories surrounding the wedding of Nicholas and Nala.
A story of old lovers revisiting the past; the best friend who are still mourning over a heartbreak, a cousins story, the groom sister’s thoughts on her brother wedding – are among the stories you will find in this book of Miniano.
As the couple are on the threshold of a new life together, other people started to find their own happy ending and beginnings too. Again, this is a representation of the truth that each life are intertwined, and as we all thought that the world revolves around us, other people has their own issues to deal with too.
I have not read most of the other earlier writings of Miniano, but I guess this kind of storytelling is her strength. She can really write in a style that I felt like I am one of the characters, regardless if the character is a man or a woman. I guess, what I like about her writing is that she focuses more on the emotions, and not necessarily on whatever blah-blah the character has to say. For a very thin book, I appreciate that my emotions are tapped, and were given weight.
The concept of “happily ever after” is mysterious and never absolute, and I like that the “happy endings” in the story doesn’t have to be the kind that the princess finds her prince, instead, it tells us that happy endings, and some closures comes from within.
Read more of my thoughts about From This Day Forward; and Miniano’s A Table for Two atA Tub of Jelly Beans
The concept of reading different character’s point of view and share of story, revolving one central topic never fails to entice my reading eyes. With a different style of melancholy, From This Day Forward is divided in 7 chapters, focusing on each character’s story. Here we will read about the different stories surrounding the wedding of Nicholas and Nala.
A story of old lovers revisiting the past; the best friend who are still mourning over a heartbreak, a cousins story, the groom sister’s thoughts on her brother wedding – are among the stories you will find in this book of Miniano.
As the couple are on the threshold of a new life together, other people started to find their own happy ending and beginnings too. Again, this is a representation of the truth that each life are intertwined, and as we all thought that the world revolves around us, other people has their own issues to deal with too.
I have not read most of the other earlier writings of Miniano, but I guess this kind of storytelling is her strength. She can really write in a style that I felt like I am one of the characters, regardless if the character is a man or a woman. I guess, what I like about her writing is that she focuses more on the emotions, and not necessarily on whatever blah-blah the character has to say. For a very thin book, I appreciate that my emotions are tapped, and were given weight.
The concept of “happily ever after” is mysterious and never absolute, and I like that the “happy endings” in the story doesn’t have to be the kind that the princess finds her prince, instead, it tells us that happy endings, and some closures comes from within.
Read more of my thoughts about From This Day Forward; and Miniano’s A Table for Two atA Tub of Jelly Beans
October 31, 2022
**“Does everything shine brighter when you’ve got someone to share it with? It wouldn’t be so terrible to feel wanted again.”**
*And that is where I lost myself.* Mixed feelings! Butterflies! Young love!
I’m going to be honest about this—it’s my second time reading this book cos the first one made me confused so I discontinued it. Anywho, I was able to finish this local book from my favorite local author, Marla Miniano.
I’m not really a fan of reading short stories about marriage since I mostly find it boring but I have to exempt this one! I love how it was cute and realistic at the same time as it talked about how marriage is not simply getting married to the love of your life—but also getting married to your in-laws and other people that matter to them.
Nala and Nicholas’ families are possibly the kinds of a modern one. Parents won’t really agree with your decisions while the other party would support you all the way. Your fiancé’s younger sister may screw her brother’s choice of a future wife or your fiancée would have chosen to not get married after her mother’s failed marriage. Dealing with this chaos while preparing for your wedding would leave you thinking about it—does everybody get a chance at happily ever after?
This beautiful couple’s story is not in any way perfect yet it was perfect for me. Both of them had different pieces of heartache, happiness, and dreams that bonded them to who they are throughout the series of events. From This Day Forward allowed me to go back reminiscing memories with the people I love and care for since I was in my high school years—I’m still young, I’m 22! But you know what I’m trying to say. They shared milestones and other collected memories, and I was comparatively happy because I get to read all sides of their families; literally from Nala dropping out from college to her parents’ personal lives and to Nicholas’ family and best friend’s memory. It was really a life-long progress and no one of the people they cared about in their lives was spared from the story. Actually loved how it didn’t only revolve around the couple but also had a peek at their loved ones with straightforward storytelling and even diary entries. Marla’s writing will always hold a special place in my heart—it wasn’t too flowery, and it was delivered with the right words that could directly hit you right through your heart and soul.
Also, a mini spoiler but my favorite part was Laura and Nala’s exchange of letters and Nala ending it as a sneaky pregnant woman telling Laura she’s going to be an aunt. It was so wholesome for me and I kind of wish that I would also have a relationship like that with my future sister-in-law. It’s not wrong to hope for that, right?
*And that is where I lost myself.* Mixed feelings! Butterflies! Young love!
I’m going to be honest about this—it’s my second time reading this book cos the first one made me confused so I discontinued it. Anywho, I was able to finish this local book from my favorite local author, Marla Miniano.
I’m not really a fan of reading short stories about marriage since I mostly find it boring but I have to exempt this one! I love how it was cute and realistic at the same time as it talked about how marriage is not simply getting married to the love of your life—but also getting married to your in-laws and other people that matter to them.
Nala and Nicholas’ families are possibly the kinds of a modern one. Parents won’t really agree with your decisions while the other party would support you all the way. Your fiancé’s younger sister may screw her brother’s choice of a future wife or your fiancée would have chosen to not get married after her mother’s failed marriage. Dealing with this chaos while preparing for your wedding would leave you thinking about it—does everybody get a chance at happily ever after?
This beautiful couple’s story is not in any way perfect yet it was perfect for me. Both of them had different pieces of heartache, happiness, and dreams that bonded them to who they are throughout the series of events. From This Day Forward allowed me to go back reminiscing memories with the people I love and care for since I was in my high school years—I’m still young, I’m 22! But you know what I’m trying to say. They shared milestones and other collected memories, and I was comparatively happy because I get to read all sides of their families; literally from Nala dropping out from college to her parents’ personal lives and to Nicholas’ family and best friend’s memory. It was really a life-long progress and no one of the people they cared about in their lives was spared from the story. Actually loved how it didn’t only revolve around the couple but also had a peek at their loved ones with straightforward storytelling and even diary entries. Marla’s writing will always hold a special place in my heart—it wasn’t too flowery, and it was delivered with the right words that could directly hit you right through your heart and soul.
Also, a mini spoiler but my favorite part was Laura and Nala’s exchange of letters and Nala ending it as a sneaky pregnant woman telling Laura she’s going to be an aunt. It was so wholesome for me and I kind of wish that I would also have a relationship like that with my future sister-in-law. It’s not wrong to hope for that, right?
February 19, 2013
4.5 stars
Originally posted in My Book Musings.
*Copy provided by publisher for an honest review.
There are some books that leave you with a pleasant feeling after finishing the book, and From This Day Forward is one such book. I didn't really know what to expect from the book but I decided to give it a chance. All I know is that it's about two people getting married, but I wasn't sure if they'd actually end up together.
The book is a quiet, gentle read that takes you through different stories. It was a great morning companion for me, letting me have my peace while not emotionally affecting me too much. I can imagine myself at the beach (preferably Boracay!), under the umbrella shade or coconut trees, basking in the moment while reading From This Day Forward as I wait for the afternoon heat to pass by. I picked it up and didn't put the book down once. I just found myself reading along, caught up in Marla Miniano's talented story weaving.
There is a Table of Contents, with different titles per chapter. But then it turns out they aren't exactly conventional chapters after all; the book is actually a collection of several short stories, with some being told from the first point of view, and others were narrated, but every main character was connected to Nicholas and Nola. The titles are, in order: Homecoming, Safe and Brave, The Only Single Girl on New Year's Eve, The Middle, It's Complicated, A Very Strange Aversion, and House Tour.
I thought the first chapter was about Nola's relationship with her mom, but it was so much more than that. It was about Nola's relationship with her mother as well as the strength of her mother being tested with Nola's announcement of her engagement. I think the point of the chapter was that Mrs. Montano is starkly reminded of her failed marriage, and perhaps her fear that Nola's might end up unhappily, too. But like a good mother, she faced her fears and congratulated her only child.
Of all the chapters, I think I liked the second one, Safe and Brave, which is about Mrs. Roces' dislike of Nola for her son Nicholas. She thinks that Nola is too unkempt, too carefree, not caring about anyone else. She had to face her old lover, her very first strong love, to get back her heirloom rings to give to her son Nicholas. While reading the chapter, I realized why Mrs. Roces doesn't like Nola -- she was too much like Raphael, her old lover, her crazy, big love at one point in her life. I'm glad though that she did not get in between Nicholas and Nola. Some mothers try to intervene, try to break up the engagement. But her, no matter how afraid she was that Nicholas and Nola might end up estranged, she still supported them and even gave them a sweet note.
I was able to relate to The Only Single Girl on New Year's Eve and The Middle, not because someone I loved suddenly died and I was left all alone, or that I was in a relationship where cheating occurred, but it did remind me of my first two relationships. I thought we were going to last forever and ever. But with my first ex, one day it was just over. No warnings; I didn't see it coming. We never talked again after the breakup day, but for months I was lost. I stopped eating and lost so much weight. I couldn't understand why it ended the way it did. In a way, I felt like my ex died. And it took me, regretfully, more than four years to get over that one year and one month relationship. But eventually, I did. Thank God.
It's Complicated also took me by surprise. It was just a chapter of poems, all signalling how Nola felt at one point. In one of the poems, there were hints that Nicholas did something wrong in the past, but he tried so hard to change ("You are better now, don't fumble"). The line feels like a tall order, but maybe it was needed for him to move forward; to succeed; to move on. Sometimes we need to be told that we cannot fail so we can save our own self; so that we will not wallow in the past.
A Very Strange Aversion was a fast forward to the future. This was about Laura, Nicholas' cousin, who used to dislike Nola. In the end, they became quite good friends. Her story is too good for me to spoil for you. But in true Laura style, it was crazy and not out of character for her.
Last is House Tour, fast forward to 20 years into the future. The narrator is the unnamed daughter of Nola and Nicholas. At this, I breathed a sigh of relief knowing that Nola and Nicholas did last. There were also some tidbits of how Laura eventually ended up. And her story is so real, it can happen to anyone.
Nicholas sounded like the perfect guy, but it felt like he was just pressured to be one. Or at least he was actually a jerk prior to meeting Nola but he tried to change, to be better. They were opposites of each other, but they sounded like they were just what the other needed to be balanced out.
What I find missing in the story is what happened to the other characters. Did Mrs. Montano move on from her husband, or did Nola's dad come back to her mom? Although that's highly unlikely. I'm hoping Mrs. Montana was able to move on. Did the best friend find another love? Did she let herself truly move on? Did Annika find someone else? I wish these were answered, not because the story was lacking or feels incomplete, but because I have come to like them and hope that they have found relief from their broken hearts.
Before I end my review, I would just like to give props to the cover. Even the cover is understated, but still exuding femininity and gentleness. No drama. Plus, I like the material used for the cover as it feels more sturdy, unlike other paperback books.
Not all books need to be dramatic to make an impact, to be recommendable. Sometimes, we just need a gentle book to pass the time and still give us good vibes, or inspire all these questions, that maybe you don't even know you need to affirm for yourself. For lovers of chick lits, or those who love a good story (or five), or those who just devour romance, do give From This Day Forward a try. It is currently available at all National Bookstores nationwide. Also, do check out other Summit Books online.
After reading the book, I suddenly remembered that not every relationship lasts; we don't always end up with THAT one person who made us feel so much joy, happiness, or even grief. I ended up sending my friend several questions about love, mostly inspired by Safe and Brave, which I will now leave you with:
What if you found the one you feel so passionately, madly, crazy about, but you end up parting ways (for whatever reason), and he's your one big love, but someone else comes along and the relationship feels right .
Is it a matter of choosing to love the new person as much as you did the first one?
Or do you think we can only feel that one big passionate crazy love once in our lives?
Ciao, and happy musings :)
Originally posted in My Book Musings.
*Copy provided by publisher for an honest review.
There are some books that leave you with a pleasant feeling after finishing the book, and From This Day Forward is one such book. I didn't really know what to expect from the book but I decided to give it a chance. All I know is that it's about two people getting married, but I wasn't sure if they'd actually end up together.
The book is a quiet, gentle read that takes you through different stories. It was a great morning companion for me, letting me have my peace while not emotionally affecting me too much. I can imagine myself at the beach (preferably Boracay!), under the umbrella shade or coconut trees, basking in the moment while reading From This Day Forward as I wait for the afternoon heat to pass by. I picked it up and didn't put the book down once. I just found myself reading along, caught up in Marla Miniano's talented story weaving.
There is a Table of Contents, with different titles per chapter. But then it turns out they aren't exactly conventional chapters after all; the book is actually a collection of several short stories, with some being told from the first point of view, and others were narrated, but every main character was connected to Nicholas and Nola. The titles are, in order: Homecoming, Safe and Brave, The Only Single Girl on New Year's Eve, The Middle, It's Complicated, A Very Strange Aversion, and House Tour.
I thought the first chapter was about Nola's relationship with her mom, but it was so much more than that. It was about Nola's relationship with her mother as well as the strength of her mother being tested with Nola's announcement of her engagement. I think the point of the chapter was that Mrs. Montano is starkly reminded of her failed marriage, and perhaps her fear that Nola's might end up unhappily, too. But like a good mother, she faced her fears and congratulated her only child.
Of all the chapters, I think I liked the second one, Safe and Brave, which is about Mrs. Roces' dislike of Nola for her son Nicholas. She thinks that Nola is too unkempt, too carefree, not caring about anyone else. She had to face her old lover, her very first strong love, to get back her heirloom rings to give to her son Nicholas. While reading the chapter, I realized why Mrs. Roces doesn't like Nola -- she was too much like Raphael, her old lover, her crazy, big love at one point in her life. I'm glad though that she did not get in between Nicholas and Nola. Some mothers try to intervene, try to break up the engagement. But her, no matter how afraid she was that Nicholas and Nola might end up estranged, she still supported them and even gave them a sweet note.
I was able to relate to The Only Single Girl on New Year's Eve and The Middle, not because someone I loved suddenly died and I was left all alone, or that I was in a relationship where cheating occurred, but it did remind me of my first two relationships. I thought we were going to last forever and ever. But with my first ex, one day it was just over. No warnings; I didn't see it coming. We never talked again after the breakup day, but for months I was lost. I stopped eating and lost so much weight. I couldn't understand why it ended the way it did. In a way, I felt like my ex died. And it took me, regretfully, more than four years to get over that one year and one month relationship. But eventually, I did. Thank God.
It's Complicated also took me by surprise. It was just a chapter of poems, all signalling how Nola felt at one point. In one of the poems, there were hints that Nicholas did something wrong in the past, but he tried so hard to change ("You are better now, don't fumble"). The line feels like a tall order, but maybe it was needed for him to move forward; to succeed; to move on. Sometimes we need to be told that we cannot fail so we can save our own self; so that we will not wallow in the past.
A Very Strange Aversion was a fast forward to the future. This was about Laura, Nicholas' cousin, who used to dislike Nola. In the end, they became quite good friends. Her story is too good for me to spoil for you. But in true Laura style, it was crazy and not out of character for her.
Last is House Tour, fast forward to 20 years into the future. The narrator is the unnamed daughter of Nola and Nicholas. At this, I breathed a sigh of relief knowing that Nola and Nicholas did last. There were also some tidbits of how Laura eventually ended up. And her story is so real, it can happen to anyone.
Nicholas sounded like the perfect guy, but it felt like he was just pressured to be one. Or at least he was actually a jerk prior to meeting Nola but he tried to change, to be better. They were opposites of each other, but they sounded like they were just what the other needed to be balanced out.
What I find missing in the story is what happened to the other characters. Did Mrs. Montano move on from her husband, or did Nola's dad come back to her mom? Although that's highly unlikely. I'm hoping Mrs. Montana was able to move on. Did the best friend find another love? Did she let herself truly move on? Did Annika find someone else? I wish these were answered, not because the story was lacking or feels incomplete, but because I have come to like them and hope that they have found relief from their broken hearts.
Before I end my review, I would just like to give props to the cover. Even the cover is understated, but still exuding femininity and gentleness. No drama. Plus, I like the material used for the cover as it feels more sturdy, unlike other paperback books.
Not all books need to be dramatic to make an impact, to be recommendable. Sometimes, we just need a gentle book to pass the time and still give us good vibes, or inspire all these questions, that maybe you don't even know you need to affirm for yourself. For lovers of chick lits, or those who love a good story (or five), or those who just devour romance, do give From This Day Forward a try. It is currently available at all National Bookstores nationwide. Also, do check out other Summit Books online.
After reading the book, I suddenly remembered that not every relationship lasts; we don't always end up with THAT one person who made us feel so much joy, happiness, or even grief. I ended up sending my friend several questions about love, mostly inspired by Safe and Brave, which I will now leave you with:
What if you found the one you feel so passionately, madly, crazy about, but you end up parting ways (for whatever reason), and he's your one big love, but someone else comes along and the relationship feels right .
Is it a matter of choosing to love the new person as much as you did the first one?
Or do you think we can only feel that one big passionate crazy love once in our lives?
Ciao, and happy musings :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2022
Loved this book. The different POVs are refreshing.
March 24, 2013
3.5 stars
I bought this book a few days ago, together with another one, because the book that I originally wanted to buy was out of stock. Boo. Anyway, I decided to get this because I loved the cover and I've grown up reading Summit books.
Nala and Nicholas are about to get married, and as written, it isn't their lives that are thrown into chaos. I didn't really expect anything when I started reading this.
I agree with one of the readers (I can't remember exactly who said this) that it's a good book that you can curl up to during a rainy day. Although, I can't really imagine rain right at this moment since summer is just around the corner, or already is here.
I could have finished this in one sitting but it took me two days. Let's just say, halfway through reading it, it didn't give me any kind of motivation to know the ending. To be honest, the characters didn't leave any kind of impression, maybe it's just me. Or maybe, the author didn't give me much to work with.
The book felt like I was the listener to each character. It felt like I was meeting them over dinner, over lunch, over whatever and they started to open up to me about what they felt or what they thought about Nicholas and Nala getting married.
That's my experience in reading this BUT I really admire how Marla Miniano writes. I can really imagine each scene. From the first page all the way to the last one. It was so vivid, it seemed like I was seeing it with my own eyes. It felt like I was there. And at the end of the day, that's what's important. Having to be taken to another world, away from reality. Well, there were some parts that tugged my heartstrings (faintly) but still, it was worth the read.
I bought this book a few days ago, together with another one, because the book that I originally wanted to buy was out of stock. Boo. Anyway, I decided to get this because I loved the cover and I've grown up reading Summit books.
Nala and Nicholas are about to get married, and as written, it isn't their lives that are thrown into chaos. I didn't really expect anything when I started reading this.
I agree with one of the readers (I can't remember exactly who said this) that it's a good book that you can curl up to during a rainy day. Although, I can't really imagine rain right at this moment since summer is just around the corner, or already is here.
I could have finished this in one sitting but it took me two days. Let's just say, halfway through reading it, it didn't give me any kind of motivation to know the ending. To be honest, the characters didn't leave any kind of impression, maybe it's just me. Or maybe, the author didn't give me much to work with.
The book felt like I was the listener to each character. It felt like I was meeting them over dinner, over lunch, over whatever and they started to open up to me about what they felt or what they thought about Nicholas and Nala getting married.
That's my experience in reading this BUT I really admire how Marla Miniano writes. I can really imagine each scene. From the first page all the way to the last one. It was so vivid, it seemed like I was seeing it with my own eyes. It felt like I was there. And at the end of the day, that's what's important. Having to be taken to another world, away from reality. Well, there were some parts that tugged my heartstrings (faintly) but still, it was worth the read.
September 8, 2014
It's one of my faves on Marla Miniano's published books. It gives a different perspective on marriages after church bells ring and not all of them turn out the happily ever afters we always wanted. The book makes me believe more if you want something you have to start first and take the big step and not just sit around, waiting and looking pretty like a damsel in distress.
My favorite quote in this one was: "Be safe and be brave. And if you can, please be both at the same time."
- Carmen
Who's Carmen? Well she's none other Nala's future mother-in-law & Nicholas' mother. I really like her advice to future couple that no matter who things get tough they should just keep fighting on like You-me-against-the-world drama. And it's sensible because (no offense to couple out there) but sometimes couples forget they are a whole, one half & another. Together as one bounded by marriage. So you see, I'd really like to stress on the fact that romance is not dead and it can be redeemed with numerous old fashioned or new technological ways. (Not always) I tell the people I love exactly what I think and how I love them like simple: "Love ya Mom!" or "Babe, you look so cute today." or even "Hey sis, love your hair today!" ;) 'Cause it's never too late to tell someone you love them, okay?
I highly recommend this book for Romantic junkies like me and just an afternoon/during break read. Trust me, each chapter will leave you with nuggets of sure fire quotes and even true to life learning. So that's that, this is my very first book review here in goodreads, hope you enjoy it & please do read the book! Toodles, God Bless & Take care! ♥
My favorite quote in this one was: "Be safe and be brave. And if you can, please be both at the same time."
- Carmen
Who's Carmen? Well she's none other Nala's future mother-in-law & Nicholas' mother. I really like her advice to future couple that no matter who things get tough they should just keep fighting on like You-me-against-the-world drama. And it's sensible because (no offense to couple out there) but sometimes couples forget they are a whole, one half & another. Together as one bounded by marriage. So you see, I'd really like to stress on the fact that romance is not dead and it can be redeemed with numerous old fashioned or new technological ways. (Not always) I tell the people I love exactly what I think and how I love them like simple: "Love ya Mom!" or "Babe, you look so cute today." or even "Hey sis, love your hair today!" ;) 'Cause it's never too late to tell someone you love them, okay?
I highly recommend this book for Romantic junkies like me and just an afternoon/during break read. Trust me, each chapter will leave you with nuggets of sure fire quotes and even true to life learning. So that's that, this is my very first book review here in goodreads, hope you enjoy it & please do read the book! Toodles, God Bless & Take care! ♥
December 30, 2012
3.5 stars
I've always loved a love-actually-esque type of stories and Miss Miniano have been successful in rendering this kind of stories. Although I prefer her first book with this kind of format, Table for Two, but I also enjoyed reading this one. Although there are things that weren't, um, elaborated on the latter part of the story, (I will very much liked it more if some of the characters future ya-di-da's were mentioned...) but, yep, I liked it. :)
I've always loved a love-actually-esque type of stories and Miss Miniano have been successful in rendering this kind of stories. Although I prefer her first book with this kind of format, Table for Two, but I also enjoyed reading this one. Although there are things that weren't, um, elaborated on the latter part of the story, (I will very much liked it more if some of the characters future ya-di-da's were mentioned...) but, yep, I liked it. :)
February 16, 2013
Marla Miniano's From This Day Forward takes something as memorable as marriage, something as grandiose as a wedding and flips it. It gives you all the emotions that most people forget to consider when they think of matrimony. It's beautiful to not only go from the engagement to the end from the couple's point of view, but also through the eyes of friends and family.
http://marizponti.blogspot.com/2013/0...
http://marizponti.blogspot.com/2013/0...
September 13, 2013
I followed the desrciption at the back of the book while reading the story. The story I'm really intrigued about is the cousin'. I wonder if Annika and Nicholas fooled around while he is still with Nala. That part for me is the page turner. I wonder if Marla will create a spin off about Annika. Based on her account, she seems to be an interesting character and worthy of a story of her own.
December 16, 2012
I like the fact that you can learn a lot of things about love from the different point of views of the characters involved in the story. Bittersweet as I may best describe the whole story but the fact that what happened in the story is realistic made the book worthy to read. Good job, Miss Marla.:)
April 8, 2013
I was a bit disappointed though surprised that the story didn't even remotely revolved around the couple but the people around them.
But then I saw the beauty of it. The House Tour was the best imo. Plus I loved the design of the cover and the chapter pages.
But then I saw the beauty of it. The House Tour was the best imo. Plus I loved the design of the cover and the chapter pages.
June 2, 2013
"Matter occupies space,and I know-I guess I always have-that I can only have space for the thing that matter." ♥
First Marla Miniano book that I've read and I really really liked it! I love the way she writes! :)
January 7, 2013
Perfect for couples who are planning on getting married. Not me though. Haha. But I loved it! :)
January 27, 2013
I loved the bittersweetness of New Year's Eve.
March 22, 2013
I liked Table for Two better. Nonetheless, this was definitely an interesting read.
January 9, 2014
This book made me write a three-page essay. I love the vagueness and uniqueness of the story line and oh, the words-- they gave overflowing emotions.
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