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Before Ever After
"A smartly written romance, mystery and historical adventure all wrapped up in a page-turner that will have you guessing until the very end." – Adena Halpern, author of The Ten Best Days of My Life
Three years after her husband Max's death, Shelley feels no more adjusted to being a widow than she did that first terrible day. That is, until the doorbell rings. Standing on her front step is a young man who looks so much like Max–same smile, same eyes, same age, same adorable bump in his nose–he could be Max's long-lost relation. He introduces himself as Paolo, an Italian editor of American coffee table books, and shows Shelley some childhood photos. Paolo tells her that the man in the photos, the bearded man who Paolo says is his grandfather though he never seems to age, is Max. Her Max. And he is alive and well.
As outrageous as Paolo's claims seem–how could her husband be alive? And if he is, why hasn't he looked her up? – Shelley desperately wants to know the truth. She and Paolo jet across the globe to track Max down–if it is really Max– and along the way, Shelley recounts the European package tour where they had met. As she relives Max's stories of bloody Parisian barricades, medieval Austrian kitchens, and buried Roman boathouses, Shelley begins to piece together the story of who her husband was and what these new revelations mean for her "happily ever after." And as she and Paolo get closer to the truth, Shelley discovers that not all stories end where they are supposed to.
From the Hardcover edition.
Three years after her husband Max's death, Shelley feels no more adjusted to being a widow than she did that first terrible day. That is, until the doorbell rings. Standing on her front step is a young man who looks so much like Max–same smile, same eyes, same age, same adorable bump in his nose–he could be Max's long-lost relation. He introduces himself as Paolo, an Italian editor of American coffee table books, and shows Shelley some childhood photos. Paolo tells her that the man in the photos, the bearded man who Paolo says is his grandfather though he never seems to age, is Max. Her Max. And he is alive and well.
As outrageous as Paolo's claims seem–how could her husband be alive? And if he is, why hasn't he looked her up? – Shelley desperately wants to know the truth. She and Paolo jet across the globe to track Max down–if it is really Max– and along the way, Shelley recounts the European package tour where they had met. As she relives Max's stories of bloody Parisian barricades, medieval Austrian kitchens, and buried Roman boathouses, Shelley begins to piece together the story of who her husband was and what these new revelations mean for her "happily ever after." And as she and Paolo get closer to the truth, Shelley discovers that not all stories end where they are supposed to.
From the Hardcover edition.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
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August 23, 2011
Today is exactly one month after I bought and started reading Samantha Sotto’s first novel, Before Ever After. For the first 2 days, I read the first 50 pages and I stopped. I did not like it. Had I continued till I finished it, I would not know how to give her my feedback without being dishonest or worse, hurting her feelings.
She was one of the member-guests in the 5th Meet Up of Filipinos group here in Goodreads on July 23, 2011. Few months before that day, she invited us to attend her book launch originally set on July 21st, so I asked her why not attend our meet up so we could discuss about Before Ever After. She agreed and so she was there and talked about this book with us. I was very excited I bought a copy of the book a day prior to the event and my copy was the first one she signed: To K.D. I’m so glad our paths crossed on Goodreads. (signed) Thankful and thrilled, I showed lots of enthusiasm while talking with her and her husband over lunch, listened intently to her talk and promised myself that I would finish reading the book ahead of everybody just to show to her that I really appreciated her coming to our meet up and inspiring us to be writers too. Also, it was our first time to have an author-guest during a meet up and that gave us a bit of prestige that our group was nagle-level up on its way of becoming a legit book club rather than just a group of socializing friends sharing the same passion for books.
I have to admit that love story and romance are the literary genres I am not very much comfortable with. This is the reason why I hate the novels of Nicholas Sparks. I read 4 of his books. Each time I began reading his book, I tried hard convincing myself that there was something in that book I was holding that was worth knowing or enjoying. After all, his books are bestsellers so that means many people find those books extremely enjoyable. Each book, each time, was a disappointment. Now, even if you stick a knife on my throat you will not make me read another book by Nicholas Sparks. Never. Ever. Again.
In its first 50 pages, Before Ever After reeks of those romance-novel elements: good-looking characters (including a couple of gay “side-kicks”), they live a beautiful dreamy life in London, the girl loses the boy, the girl is terribly missing the boy, i.e., Boy#1, recalling their beautiful days together, trying to pick up the pieces… then ta-da here comes Boy#2 who looks like the supposedly Boy#1 who claims that he is Boy#1’s grandson and the girl should come with him to the Philippines. What the heck, I exclaimed to myself. And the narration oh dear, it goes back and forth: three years ago then earlier then three years later then now then five years ago in just a matter of 48 pages… and then on page 49 has 1871 so I decided to close the book because I had a terrible headache and I just did not know who Julien, Stephan and Isabelle were and what how they were related to the Max who was blown into pieces in the London station and I did not really care about how he used to cook perfect omelet with ham and cheese for breakfast because I thought that I’d rather have a simple one with onions and tomatoes like how we do it at home because putting ham and cheese is too much cholesterol and I am reading because I love reading and I don’t care about omelets that will shorten my stay here on earth. And for Godssakes, Shelley, dead is dead, move on lady, look for another man. So, feeling left out, I just closed the book and I would not want to continue. Think, K.D. , think, what would be your plan of escape from this mess that you created yourself?
Thank heavens for Sue Dress.
Sue Dress is one of my American friends here in Goodreads. She and I have 278 books in common. However, she has more read books than me and she seems to be open and happy to try reading books by Filipino authors. So, a few months ago, we agreed to swap books. She already sent the book she liked to me and while waiting for the snail-paced postal system to deliver her book to me here in Manila, I said I would read a number of local books first before selecting and then sending the one that I thought she would enjoy. Based on her profile Sue prefers Mystery and Suspense genre because her most-read authors are Robert Parker and Jonathan Kellerman. However, there is no local novel written in English (or even in Filipino) in that genre in any of the bookstores here in the city. All we have are romance, juvenile, satire, graphic novels and some classic works of brilliant but already dead authors. Take time, K.D., take time. The post office is so slow you will be able to finish ten books and the Registry Notice will not be here yet.
Or so I thought.
I received the Registry Notice last Friday.
Panic time. Will I just tell Sue that I have received neither the book nor even the Registry Notice yet? What will she think of our third-world postal system? Okay, look at the stack of Filipino books. Think. Focus. This one. That one. Oh no, nothing qualifies yet. All the previous books will be too “classic” for her mystery-suspense taste: two spinster sisters going crazy about the same man, a runaway boy who hid in the baggage compartment of a ship so he could go to America, a woman with two navels, the city with all those creepy creatures displacing all the humans into hiding… What? Which one?
Then I saw Before Ever After with my black bookmark sweetly inserted on page 52.
Aha! Why not this? The cover is nice with a flower that reminds me of Sue’s profile picture. Maybe she will like the book because of the cover. Then after reading, even if she hates the story, she will keep this book because of the cover. So, I went to page 52 and resumed reading. But I forgot what happened already or maybe I did not really understand, so I re-started.
Lo and behold, after 3 days, I am done with the book. Lo and behold, it is an excellent book.
It made me gasp for air a number of times. It made my heart palpitate. It made my fingers keep on leafing the pages. It made me lose some of my precious sleeping hours. It made me sit for a couple of hours at the gym lounge unmindful of members who probably thought why is this old man reading a book that looks like a chick lit, is he gay?. (I just did not care). It made me dream of those European places. It made me remember being in Boracay. It made me say, oh you naughty, naughty Sam. It made me laugh. It almost made me squirt some tears from my eyes in a couple of death scenes.
The morals of my story: read the book in its entirety before rating or judging it. Reading also means really understanding and it could also help if you try to put yourself in the author’s shoes to get what she wants to say. Also, try not to read the book at the height of its campaign in media and refrain from reading reviews posted by the early finishers. These two could be distracting. And of course, if you are one of those who read fast? Please don’t write any spoiler anywhere or just use that spoiler alert link.
So, I am going to the city post office today and claim Sue’s book. Then I will also mail a copy of this book to her as I have no doubt that she will like this. Not just the cover but more importantly the story.
Well done, Sam.
She was one of the member-guests in the 5th Meet Up of Filipinos group here in Goodreads on July 23, 2011. Few months before that day, she invited us to attend her book launch originally set on July 21st, so I asked her why not attend our meet up so we could discuss about Before Ever After. She agreed and so she was there and talked about this book with us. I was very excited I bought a copy of the book a day prior to the event and my copy was the first one she signed: To K.D. I’m so glad our paths crossed on Goodreads. (signed) Thankful and thrilled, I showed lots of enthusiasm while talking with her and her husband over lunch, listened intently to her talk and promised myself that I would finish reading the book ahead of everybody just to show to her that I really appreciated her coming to our meet up and inspiring us to be writers too. Also, it was our first time to have an author-guest during a meet up and that gave us a bit of prestige that our group was nagle-level up on its way of becoming a legit book club rather than just a group of socializing friends sharing the same passion for books.
I have to admit that love story and romance are the literary genres I am not very much comfortable with. This is the reason why I hate the novels of Nicholas Sparks. I read 4 of his books. Each time I began reading his book, I tried hard convincing myself that there was something in that book I was holding that was worth knowing or enjoying. After all, his books are bestsellers so that means many people find those books extremely enjoyable. Each book, each time, was a disappointment. Now, even if you stick a knife on my throat you will not make me read another book by Nicholas Sparks. Never. Ever. Again.
In its first 50 pages, Before Ever After reeks of those romance-novel elements: good-looking characters (including a couple of gay “side-kicks”), they live a beautiful dreamy life in London, the girl loses the boy, the girl is terribly missing the boy, i.e., Boy#1, recalling their beautiful days together, trying to pick up the pieces… then ta-da here comes Boy#2 who looks like the supposedly Boy#1 who claims that he is Boy#1’s grandson and the girl should come with him to the Philippines. What the heck, I exclaimed to myself. And the narration oh dear, it goes back and forth: three years ago then earlier then three years later then now then five years ago in just a matter of 48 pages… and then on page 49 has 1871 so I decided to close the book because I had a terrible headache and I just did not know who Julien, Stephan and Isabelle were and what how they were related to the Max who was blown into pieces in the London station and I did not really care about how he used to cook perfect omelet with ham and cheese for breakfast because I thought that I’d rather have a simple one with onions and tomatoes like how we do it at home because putting ham and cheese is too much cholesterol and I am reading because I love reading and I don’t care about omelets that will shorten my stay here on earth. And for Godssakes, Shelley, dead is dead, move on lady, look for another man. So, feeling left out, I just closed the book and I would not want to continue. Think, K.D. , think, what would be your plan of escape from this mess that you created yourself?
Thank heavens for Sue Dress.
Sue Dress is one of my American friends here in Goodreads. She and I have 278 books in common. However, she has more read books than me and she seems to be open and happy to try reading books by Filipino authors. So, a few months ago, we agreed to swap books. She already sent the book she liked to me and while waiting for the snail-paced postal system to deliver her book to me here in Manila, I said I would read a number of local books first before selecting and then sending the one that I thought she would enjoy. Based on her profile Sue prefers Mystery and Suspense genre because her most-read authors are Robert Parker and Jonathan Kellerman. However, there is no local novel written in English (or even in Filipino) in that genre in any of the bookstores here in the city. All we have are romance, juvenile, satire, graphic novels and some classic works of brilliant but already dead authors. Take time, K.D., take time. The post office is so slow you will be able to finish ten books and the Registry Notice will not be here yet.
Or so I thought.
I received the Registry Notice last Friday.
Panic time. Will I just tell Sue that I have received neither the book nor even the Registry Notice yet? What will she think of our third-world postal system? Okay, look at the stack of Filipino books. Think. Focus. This one. That one. Oh no, nothing qualifies yet. All the previous books will be too “classic” for her mystery-suspense taste: two spinster sisters going crazy about the same man, a runaway boy who hid in the baggage compartment of a ship so he could go to America, a woman with two navels, the city with all those creepy creatures displacing all the humans into hiding… What? Which one?
Then I saw Before Ever After with my black bookmark sweetly inserted on page 52.
Aha! Why not this? The cover is nice with a flower that reminds me of Sue’s profile picture. Maybe she will like the book because of the cover. Then after reading, even if she hates the story, she will keep this book because of the cover. So, I went to page 52 and resumed reading. But I forgot what happened already or maybe I did not really understand, so I re-started.
Lo and behold, after 3 days, I am done with the book. Lo and behold, it is an excellent book.
It made me gasp for air a number of times. It made my heart palpitate. It made my fingers keep on leafing the pages. It made me lose some of my precious sleeping hours. It made me sit for a couple of hours at the gym lounge unmindful of members who probably thought why is this old man reading a book that looks like a chick lit, is he gay?. (I just did not care). It made me dream of those European places. It made me remember being in Boracay. It made me say, oh you naughty, naughty Sam. It made me laugh. It almost made me squirt some tears from my eyes in a couple of death scenes.
The morals of my story: read the book in its entirety before rating or judging it. Reading also means really understanding and it could also help if you try to put yourself in the author’s shoes to get what she wants to say. Also, try not to read the book at the height of its campaign in media and refrain from reading reviews posted by the early finishers. These two could be distracting. And of course, if you are one of those who read fast? Please don’t write any spoiler anywhere or just use that spoiler alert link.
So, I am going to the city post office today and claim Sue’s book. Then I will also mail a copy of this book to her as I have no doubt that she will like this. Not just the cover but more importantly the story.
Well done, Sam.
July 27, 2011
Its Sunday, the warm days are over and trying to cover myself with a piece of blanket while listening to the beautiful sound of the rain and the strong stamping of the wind while reading a book. A baked egg and cheese, and a cup of Jasmine tea are nice combination for a perfect Sunday. Well, who said I can't be somebody who enjoyed chicken in its maximum level? I think most of us does.
Yesterday was the best day of the week because I was doomed by the number of exams I attended last week. At least yesterday awarded me something thoughtful and energizing. I'm glad I met new friends and of course the one and only Samantha Sotto as a guest speaker of the day with Mina Esguerra, the author of No Strings Attached; Kristel Autencio, editor of Vibal's Vee Press Imprint and lastly, the radio DJ of Dream FM 106.7's Soul Candy, Caz Amunda.
After the meet-up and everyone decided to go back home, everyone received a very special gift for everyone and that was the memory we shared as readers and friends. Next day, which is today, I got hold of Samantha Sotto's debut book, Before Ever After. It was a relaxing book compared to any books I read for quite some time now and I'm glad she (the book) did impress me.
Before Ever After is a story of a widow named Shelley Gallus, had a peaceful morning, been shocked by a news from her husband's grandson. A message that will change her life forever and to change the course of myth into reality! Her husband was alive! Paolo and Shelley, both have a connection to Max Gallus, went to the Philippines to search for his remain and to ask the possibilities that never been answered for a long time. Can love change the course of time? Or another tragic story will fall to an end?
Samatha Sotto (http://samanthasotto.com/), a Filipino American author who travel, study and live in Europe for several years had been inspired to write a book that will give you ancient, historical and unique destination that you will enjoy forever. Samantha's debut novel is a good story and no doubt girls will crave for another dose of her detour.
This soft love story, part historical fiction and mystical realism, is a good mixture of a perfect brew with an egg. To travel outside the country with love of chickens and filled with egg is a very interesting life style for a character. The uniqueness is very much anticipated because she spilled this out when she was interviewed yesterday, although what I only did was to make noise at the back.
As for me, this is a very good book for a first time author. Everyone would love to read another set and give her good impression. Can she even manage to write another good book like this and give another enjoyable read to the readers? Or another bunch of rotten eggs will fall? I can't wait to read her second book if she's planning to write another one in the nearby Starbucks while waiting for her kids.
Recommended to those YA lovers, although this is not a YA book but a nice book for teens and those girls or guys who love to read chic-lit; historical fiction and lastly those wanna be witches who love mystical realism books. Hey, don't forget those chicken fanatics out there waiting to catch some fresh egg falling from the sky.
The cover looks nice, perfect for a chic-lit book but I was so shocked that it was different inside. Very intriguing and very nice to know that she loved one of my favorite books, The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and Doctor Who, which I'm planning to watch the series than reading it. The trailer is the best! I'm sure everyone expects much about this book and her agent (?) did the best.
A message to Samantha Sotto: Thanks a lot for everything and I can't wait to read your upcoming book if ever there will be. I'm sure everyone loves you much! Enjoy writing and keep your chickens alive. Which part (cut) of chicken do you like most? I like drumstick or the leg part.
Review posted on Old-Fashioned Reader .
Rating: Before Ever After by Samantha Sotto, 4 Sweets
Challenges:
Book #204 for 2011
Yesterday was the best day of the week because I was doomed by the number of exams I attended last week. At least yesterday awarded me something thoughtful and energizing. I'm glad I met new friends and of course the one and only Samantha Sotto as a guest speaker of the day with Mina Esguerra, the author of No Strings Attached; Kristel Autencio, editor of Vibal's Vee Press Imprint and lastly, the radio DJ of Dream FM 106.7's Soul Candy, Caz Amunda.
After the meet-up and everyone decided to go back home, everyone received a very special gift for everyone and that was the memory we shared as readers and friends. Next day, which is today, I got hold of Samantha Sotto's debut book, Before Ever After. It was a relaxing book compared to any books I read for quite some time now and I'm glad she (the book) did impress me.
[image error]
I'm glad I met the author yesterday with other Goodreads' friends and got my book signed with chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus). Thanks a lot again Samantha!
Before Ever After is a story of a widow named Shelley Gallus, had a peaceful morning, been shocked by a news from her husband's grandson. A message that will change her life forever and to change the course of myth into reality! Her husband was alive! Paolo and Shelley, both have a connection to Max Gallus, went to the Philippines to search for his remain and to ask the possibilities that never been answered for a long time. Can love change the course of time? Or another tragic story will fall to an end?
Samatha Sotto (http://samanthasotto.com/), a Filipino American author who travel, study and live in Europe for several years had been inspired to write a book that will give you ancient, historical and unique destination that you will enjoy forever. Samantha's debut novel is a good story and no doubt girls will crave for another dose of her detour.
This soft love story, part historical fiction and mystical realism, is a good mixture of a perfect brew with an egg. To travel outside the country with love of chickens and filled with egg is a very interesting life style for a character. The uniqueness is very much anticipated because she spilled this out when she was interviewed yesterday, although what I only did was to make noise at the back.
As for me, this is a very good book for a first time author. Everyone would love to read another set and give her good impression. Can she even manage to write another good book like this and give another enjoyable read to the readers? Or another bunch of rotten eggs will fall? I can't wait to read her second book if she's planning to write another one in the nearby Starbucks while waiting for her kids.
Recommended to those YA lovers, although this is not a YA book but a nice book for teens and those girls or guys who love to read chic-lit; historical fiction and lastly those wanna be witches who love mystical realism books. Hey, don't forget those chicken fanatics out there waiting to catch some fresh egg falling from the sky.
The cover looks nice, perfect for a chic-lit book but I was so shocked that it was different inside. Very intriguing and very nice to know that she loved one of my favorite books, The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and Doctor Who, which I'm planning to watch the series than reading it. The trailer is the best! I'm sure everyone expects much about this book and her agent (?) did the best.
A message to Samantha Sotto: Thanks a lot for everything and I can't wait to read your upcoming book if ever there will be. I'm sure everyone loves you much! Enjoy writing and keep your chickens alive. Which part (cut) of chicken do you like most? I like drumstick or the leg part.
[image error]
This is me and Samantha Sotto, I looked like his son. Kidding. Anyway, I'm glad she accepted my request to take a photo of me and her. I have another question, why you looked chubby in the back cover of the book?
Review posted on Old-Fashioned Reader .
Rating: Before Ever After by Samantha Sotto, 4 Sweets
Challenges:
Book #204 for 2011
January 18, 2013
I wish I could sufficiently say
exactly what's on my mind
or how to pick up the pieces
of a heart that's been sliced to rinds.
I wouldn't even know where to start
or how to put it in perspective,
but if I silenced my thoughts...
would that be more effective?
It was lovely and sad
maybe even life-changing
It was a story about love
and of a man never ageing.
There was no magic spell
nor is he a night creature.
He is just a man
who'd lived a thousand lives
and adventures.
It would all make sense
once you read this book.
It will make you fall in love
and find yourself hooked.
To the characters worth knowing
and to the places that perhaps
you've never been.
To the subject of history
that we once found boring.
Do you believe in serendipity?
Or in finding your destiny?
Disregarding time
and centuries of history?
Well this is their story -
how their love came to be.
Would you choose life?
Or would you die to live for eternity?
So listen. Can I take back all those gushing reviews for books that I now consider as mediocre after reading Before Ever After? I'm not going to name names but I'm hanging my head down in shame. The truth is, I don't know jack. I have had this book sitting unread for more than a year - and in our cabin, no less - which means that the chances of me picking it up was close to maybe never. But for some serendipitous reason, I joined this challenge thing on Goodreads and thought, heck, why not? It was a debut author challenge and I wanted to jump start my foray into the Adult Fiction. Oh my God. It's like I've never lived before this book.
Whoa. Whoa. Whoa.
And what about your love for Ms. Marchetta, you ask? Well, I still love her. She's still my goddess. But Samantha Sotto's work here puts her in the running of a demi-goddess status. You need to read this book. Otherwise, you're missing the entire point of why we read to escape to begin with. Granted, the novel isn't all fun and rainbows and unicorns, because parts of it was a tad bit painful to read but it doesn't give you time to dwell on the torture that it just put you through. The book will pick you back up, dust you off, and will spirit you away back to Europe's grand and historic beauty. It will also introduce you to characters who deserved their own books. They have their stories to tell and you'll find yourself wanting - needing more, heck imagining their lives long after you've shelved the book.
Before Ever After touched me so deeply in ways that I don't understand. She writes with such ease and such lyrical beauty that empathy toward the characters are magnified. The places that they've been were made even more beautiful with her words.
But I'd come to the grave conclusion that this book is actually my worst nightmare. How do I follow this up? Where do I find a book that'd come close to this? The fact is, probably not for a very long time and unlike Max, time is something I don't have a lot of.
exactly what's on my mind
or how to pick up the pieces
of a heart that's been sliced to rinds.
I wouldn't even know where to start
or how to put it in perspective,
but if I silenced my thoughts...
would that be more effective?
It was lovely and sad
maybe even life-changing
It was a story about love
and of a man never ageing.
There was no magic spell
nor is he a night creature.
He is just a man
who'd lived a thousand lives
and adventures.
It would all make sense
once you read this book.
It will make you fall in love
and find yourself hooked.
To the characters worth knowing
and to the places that perhaps
you've never been.
To the subject of history
that we once found boring.
Do you believe in serendipity?
Or in finding your destiny?
Disregarding time
and centuries of history?
Well this is their story -
how their love came to be.
Would you choose life?
Or would you die to live for eternity?
So listen. Can I take back all those gushing reviews for books that I now consider as mediocre after reading Before Ever After? I'm not going to name names but I'm hanging my head down in shame. The truth is, I don't know jack. I have had this book sitting unread for more than a year - and in our cabin, no less - which means that the chances of me picking it up was close to maybe never. But for some serendipitous reason, I joined this challenge thing on Goodreads and thought, heck, why not? It was a debut author challenge and I wanted to jump start my foray into the Adult Fiction. Oh my God. It's like I've never lived before this book.
Whoa. Whoa. Whoa.
And what about your love for Ms. Marchetta, you ask? Well, I still love her. She's still my goddess. But Samantha Sotto's work here puts her in the running of a demi-goddess status. You need to read this book. Otherwise, you're missing the entire point of why we read to escape to begin with. Granted, the novel isn't all fun and rainbows and unicorns, because parts of it was a tad bit painful to read but it doesn't give you time to dwell on the torture that it just put you through. The book will pick you back up, dust you off, and will spirit you away back to Europe's grand and historic beauty. It will also introduce you to characters who deserved their own books. They have their stories to tell and you'll find yourself wanting - needing more, heck imagining their lives long after you've shelved the book.
Before Ever After touched me so deeply in ways that I don't understand. She writes with such ease and such lyrical beauty that empathy toward the characters are magnified. The places that they've been were made even more beautiful with her words.
But I'd come to the grave conclusion that this book is actually my worst nightmare. How do I follow this up? Where do I find a book that'd come close to this? The fact is, probably not for a very long time and unlike Max, time is something I don't have a lot of.
December 15, 2011
I think I’m one of the few fortunate people in Goodreads who actually have been given 3 free books, as of this year 2011 (And I’m talking of real, tangible books not just e-books). First I've won in the Goodreads Giveaways (I’m not confabulating its really true) and I’ve got two books Envy and Chill Factor by Sandra Brown delivered at my doorstep and it was autographed…Oh My Gosh.
And then my luck of receiving free books doesn’t end there. This book that I’m reviewing Before Ever After was given as a birthday gift by Ms. Samantha Sotto, the author of this book. If you’re wondering how it happened, if I received it because I won again in a giveaway or if the author is my friend in real life, no that was not how it happened.
What happened was I added this book in my gargantuan to-read list and then when I was reading the book info I noticed that the book will come out on my birthday which is August 2. And then I wrote a review saying, “You know what, this book will come out on my birthday. :) No kidding. I love it already,” and then Ms. Sam Sotto have read my review and gave me a message that she love to give me a copy of her book on my birthday.
And I was like:
[image error]
Of course since that was really cute and sweet and heartwarming that the author herself has read my review and she even think of giving me a book on my birthday *sniff sniff* (which was actually a first time for me, even though I really love books I never got them as birthday presents, however I got a home library as a graduation present).
Okay to make a super long story short I’ve met Sam personally during the 5th meet up of The Filipino Group in Goodreads and she handed it to me and I’ve even got the chance to have it autographed.
And this is how it looked like:
***Die envious folks...teehee***
So okay done with the introduction and now let's get into reviewing...to be more organized I'm going to write the pros and then the cons...
So here goes.
Pros:
1. I really like the short stories/subplots/folktales inside the story. I can't really explain it but these stories are really unique and they are really interesting. The first subplot (something about a revolution)I think while reading it I even say a bad word out loud because I was just really shocked and thank goodness I was alone in my bedroom so no one really heard me utter those bad words.
And then the second subplot was my favorite of all (it was the Basilisk Story) I remember the format was kind of similar to the Shrieking Shack story of the Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. To make it more clear (I think if you’re a Potter fan, you’ll understand what I’m saying) do you remember when I think Hermione told Ron about the story of a ghost howling in the Shrieking Shack and that’s how it got it name (Shrieking..Get it?) And then later in the story we learned the truth that it was not a ghost but . So in this book it was similar to that, there’s a story about a Basilisk but later the true story about it came out.
Also I like the very last story, the story of Maximus and Livia. It was another great subplot and I remember I even have palpitations reading it. It was just intense, I can’t really describe it.
2. I like how she can write from one genre to another. First it was a mystery and then there’s romance, there’s adventure, there’s historical fiction mix with fantasy and supernatural and then there’s also humor. She can make me laugh, sometimes I feel intrigued and then it can be sweet, it can be tragic, it can be informative. It was a mix of light and heavy. The heaviness of the subplots which in general are tragic stories is lightened and layered by the humor of Max and the campers. She can also play with different timelines, different settings and different characters and that made me decide that this book is a book that is hard to write, it has its complexities and despite the fact that there are things that I didn’t like I still think that it deserve a 5 star rating, not just because the author gave this to me and I owe her a good review but I think she really deserve it because of the fact that she have write a good novel.
Cons:
1. The one thing that I didn’t like in this book was the ending. While I was reading Maximus and Livia’s story as I’ve mentioned I was having palpitations and I was like I’ll give the book a solid five stars but then come to the end of the book I was disappointed because the ending was made in such a haste. I think the epilogue has only four sentences and I know it was but it was really confusing and I’m not really sure if the elements of It was very confusing, I didn’t quite get it. But still I think minus the unclear ending it was a good read. I recommend it to all my friends and to Ms. Samantha Sotto, congratulations on your debut novel. I’ll look forward for more.
And then my luck of receiving free books doesn’t end there. This book that I’m reviewing Before Ever After was given as a birthday gift by Ms. Samantha Sotto, the author of this book. If you’re wondering how it happened, if I received it because I won again in a giveaway or if the author is my friend in real life, no that was not how it happened.
What happened was I added this book in my gargantuan to-read list and then when I was reading the book info I noticed that the book will come out on my birthday which is August 2. And then I wrote a review saying, “You know what, this book will come out on my birthday. :) No kidding. I love it already,” and then Ms. Sam Sotto have read my review and gave me a message that she love to give me a copy of her book on my birthday.
And I was like:
[image error]
Of course since that was really cute and sweet and heartwarming that the author herself has read my review and she even think of giving me a book on my birthday *sniff sniff* (which was actually a first time for me, even though I really love books I never got them as birthday presents, however I got a home library as a graduation present).
Okay to make a super long story short I’ve met Sam personally during the 5th meet up of The Filipino Group in Goodreads and she handed it to me and I’ve even got the chance to have it autographed.
And this is how it looked like:
***Die envious folks...teehee***
So okay done with the introduction and now let's get into reviewing...to be more organized I'm going to write the pros and then the cons...
So here goes.
Pros:
1. I really like the short stories/subplots/folktales inside the story. I can't really explain it but these stories are really unique and they are really interesting. The first subplot (something about a revolution)I think while reading it I even say a bad word out loud because I was just really shocked and thank goodness I was alone in my bedroom so no one really heard me utter those bad words.
And then the second subplot was my favorite of all (it was the Basilisk Story) I remember the format was kind of similar to the Shrieking Shack story of the Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. To make it more clear (I think if you’re a Potter fan, you’ll understand what I’m saying) do you remember when I think Hermione told Ron about the story of a ghost howling in the Shrieking Shack and that’s how it got it name (Shrieking..Get it?) And then later in the story we learned the truth that it was not a ghost but . So in this book it was similar to that, there’s a story about a Basilisk but later the true story about it came out.
Also I like the very last story, the story of Maximus and Livia. It was another great subplot and I remember I even have palpitations reading it. It was just intense, I can’t really describe it.
2. I like how she can write from one genre to another. First it was a mystery and then there’s romance, there’s adventure, there’s historical fiction mix with fantasy and supernatural and then there’s also humor. She can make me laugh, sometimes I feel intrigued and then it can be sweet, it can be tragic, it can be informative. It was a mix of light and heavy. The heaviness of the subplots which in general are tragic stories is lightened and layered by the humor of Max and the campers. She can also play with different timelines, different settings and different characters and that made me decide that this book is a book that is hard to write, it has its complexities and despite the fact that there are things that I didn’t like I still think that it deserve a 5 star rating, not just because the author gave this to me and I owe her a good review but I think she really deserve it because of the fact that she have write a good novel.
Cons:
1. The one thing that I didn’t like in this book was the ending. While I was reading Maximus and Livia’s story as I’ve mentioned I was having palpitations and I was like I’ll give the book a solid five stars but then come to the end of the book I was disappointed because the ending was made in such a haste. I think the epilogue has only four sentences and I know it was but it was really confusing and I’m not really sure if the elements of It was very confusing, I didn’t quite get it. But still I think minus the unclear ending it was a good read. I recommend it to all my friends and to Ms. Samantha Sotto, congratulations on your debut novel. I’ll look forward for more.
May 4, 2020
I still don’t know how to form the proper words to express my wonderment at this book but I’ll try. Before Ever After is absolutely so unexpected, I didn’t know that when I bought this, a gem of a novel lies beneath the simple, unassuming cover. Mostly I was just curious about the book because it was written by a fellow Filipino.
Ms. Samantha Sotto claims she hadn’t written anything before this but while reading the book, you would think that she has been writing since she was in diapers. Really. And I’m not just saying this because of our shared nationality. I had actually read a few other novels in English written by fellow Filipinos and had been honest about being not so very impressed. Sorry.
This book mixes contemporary, historical fantasy, romance, adventure, and magical realism in a beautiful combination with that smooth, gripping, witty, heart-wrenching, and often times really funny writing (take a peak)....
LMAO!
... that made me devour the pages of the novel. It’s utterly amazing how the author deftly wrote so many short stories, through the histories Shelley was told by Max during their European trip five years ago, creating so many characters throughout the centuries telling about their tragedies and the meaning of their lives.
There’s Julian, Aidan, the Basilisk, and so many other characters and how significant their lives can be no matter how flitting. Here’s the catch. There’s a deeper importance to their lives than Max is letting on and only now five years later, when Max is believed to be dead for three years and a man named Paolo, Max’s doppleganger claiming to be the latter’s grandson is Shelley now realizing that those stories weren’t just myths. Those stories make for a thrilling treasure hunt to knowing who Max really is but at the same time each story is already a treasure in itself. Each story speaks an important message about life, death, faith, love, poverty, justice, and so on.
I really must find that recipe on baked eggs and cheese. ^^
Ms. Samantha Sotto claims she hadn’t written anything before this but while reading the book, you would think that she has been writing since she was in diapers. Really. And I’m not just saying this because of our shared nationality. I had actually read a few other novels in English written by fellow Filipinos and had been honest about being not so very impressed. Sorry.
This book mixes contemporary, historical fantasy, romance, adventure, and magical realism in a beautiful combination with that smooth, gripping, witty, heart-wrenching, and often times really funny writing (take a peak)....
LMAO!
... that made me devour the pages of the novel. It’s utterly amazing how the author deftly wrote so many short stories, through the histories Shelley was told by Max during their European trip five years ago, creating so many characters throughout the centuries telling about their tragedies and the meaning of their lives.
There’s Julian, Aidan, the Basilisk, and so many other characters and how significant their lives can be no matter how flitting. Here’s the catch. There’s a deeper importance to their lives than Max is letting on and only now five years later, when Max is believed to be dead for three years and a man named Paolo, Max’s doppleganger claiming to be the latter’s grandson is Shelley now realizing that those stories weren’t just myths. Those stories make for a thrilling treasure hunt to knowing who Max really is but at the same time each story is already a treasure in itself. Each story speaks an important message about life, death, faith, love, poverty, justice, and so on.
I really must find that recipe on baked eggs and cheese. ^^
July 16, 2015
ARC from the publisher.
Eye-roll inducing and heavy-handed metaphors characterize this novel. Author Sotto took a premise that genuinely piqued my interest (woman's husband dies, husband lookalike claiming to be grandson finds her, tells her husband is still alive...) and over-wrote the crap out of it. I like to think I'm a pretty astute reader, but some of her metaphors were so drawn out that they left me confused - the elephant? I thought it was real at first? What? With a new simile or metaphor every other page, it distracted me from what could have been a really lovely story.
I liked the idea of the historical thread that was interwoven with the modern day love drama, though I think the authenticity fell very short. (Historical figures using modern day English phrases, etc.) Sotto is no David Mitchell or Geraldine Brooks when it comes to research and detail. Still, the episodes showing glimpses into different time periods were refreshing in between the contemporary sections, in which all the strangers that just got together perfectly click and have the exact same voice and sense of humor.
I think I just made myself like this book less. Regardless of my opinion, I see how Before Ever After would appeal to a wide audience, especially a few years after the big time popularity of something like The Time Traveler's Wife. Recommended for undiscerning fans of fantastical romance.
Eye-roll inducing and heavy-handed metaphors characterize this novel. Author Sotto took a premise that genuinely piqued my interest (woman's husband dies, husband lookalike claiming to be grandson finds her, tells her husband is still alive...) and over-wrote the crap out of it. I like to think I'm a pretty astute reader, but some of her metaphors were so drawn out that they left me confused - the elephant? I thought it was real at first? What? With a new simile or metaphor every other page, it distracted me from what could have been a really lovely story.
I liked the idea of the historical thread that was interwoven with the modern day love drama, though I think the authenticity fell very short. (Historical figures using modern day English phrases, etc.) Sotto is no David Mitchell or Geraldine Brooks when it comes to research and detail. Still, the episodes showing glimpses into different time periods were refreshing in between the contemporary sections, in which all the strangers that just got together perfectly click and have the exact same voice and sense of humor.
I think I just made myself like this book less. Regardless of my opinion, I see how Before Ever After would appeal to a wide audience, especially a few years after the big time popularity of something like The Time Traveler's Wife. Recommended for undiscerning fans of fantastical romance.
August 29, 2022
Actual rating: 2.5
I'll give this much to Samantha Sotto and this book. This was very well-written, if not necessarily well-structured. The prose in this book flows quite beautifully. Conceptually, this was also quite an intriguing, unique, and genre-blending story. There are a lot of touching scenes all throughout the book that made me feel things.
However, for all of its merits, I just did not vibe with the book. I found much of it to be weird and while I was curious enough to keep on reading so that I could find out the reason for how the main character came to the situation she was in, I certainly was not hooked. I could've not finished the book and would have been fine. I also thought that we never spend enough time with the main characters in the present timeline to be really invested in them.
I will say that the ending was quite satisfying, but my overarching emotion towards this book is just plain befuddlement by how strange the whole story is—I definitely thought there were way too many chickens and eggs! This is certainly a case of "I respect this book, but it wasn't to my taste."
I'll give this much to Samantha Sotto and this book. This was very well-written, if not necessarily well-structured. The prose in this book flows quite beautifully. Conceptually, this was also quite an intriguing, unique, and genre-blending story. There are a lot of touching scenes all throughout the book that made me feel things.
However, for all of its merits, I just did not vibe with the book. I found much of it to be weird and while I was curious enough to keep on reading so that I could find out the reason for how the main character came to the situation she was in, I certainly was not hooked. I could've not finished the book and would have been fine. I also thought that we never spend enough time with the main characters in the present timeline to be really invested in them.
I will say that the ending was quite satisfying, but my overarching emotion towards this book is just plain befuddlement by how strange the whole story is—I definitely thought there were way too many chickens and eggs! This is certainly a case of "I respect this book, but it wasn't to my taste."
October 25, 2011
Of Chickens, Journeys, and Forever
(A Book Review of Before Ever After by Samantha Sotto)
With its share of joys and aches, Shelley Sullivan’s love story, on its surface, is something we have known and heard before — that is until the day of her husband’s untimely demise in a terror bombing in Lisbon, halting her blissful though short marriage to Max Gallus. As three years of grief and difficulty of moving on have made her painfully realize, sometimes love stories doesn’t always turn out for the best, that fairy tales doesn’t always lead to a happy ending.
Or so she thought…
All it takes is one doorbell; and as Shelley opens the door she also opens a window of possibility too outrageous to comprehend. Standing in front of her is a young man whose face bears a striking resemblance to Max’s — looking exactly as he did the last time Shelley had seen him — and introduces himself as Paolo, an Italian editor for an American publisher of coffee table books. He bears evidences, childhood photographs claiming Shelley’s husband is the grandfather he is searching for along with more shocking news: Max is alive and well, living in an island off the Philippines and it seems still whipping up his legendary baked eggs and cheese in a quaint restaurant.
Frantic for answers, their heads buzzing with questions, Shelley takes a leap of faith, agrees to accompany Paolo and flies halfway across the globe to search out Max and uncover the mystery of his identity.
Aboard the airplane to Boracay in the Philippines, Shelley tells of joining “The Slight Detour”, a European tour off the beaten track where she came to know and fell in love with Max, the tour’s proprietor and guide; while Paolo relate tall tales told to him by his grandfather Nono during his childhood about heroic exploits in diverse times and places throughout Europe. As Shelley and Paolo’s stories merge, bordered by present-day and flash back narrative, it carves out an unusual path through its European setting and vivifies the continent into new, surprising light.
Before Ever After, the debut novel of Filipino author Samantha Sotto, is a mishmash of everything in between: primarily it’s a romance novel with an added dash of mystery, culture and history, jazzed up by humor and witticism with a sprinkling of fantasy. If that isn’t enough the book also works as a travelogue of sorts offering intriguing bits of little known trivia about Europe’s much and lesser traveled regions. Yet the icing in the cake for me is that it also engages the reader’s gastronomy as its main character Max Gallus has a idiosyncratic fascination with chicken and eggs and whose métier of baked and cheese is featured throughout the book it more than whets the appetite and makes it eater euphoric with every mouthful, it likewise makes the reader’s mouth water and the taste buds crave for its creamy goodness. Just where could I go and what would I give just to get a taste of the real thing?!
Sotto’s prose is magical, by turns making the commonplace look remarkable as her handling of plot and characterization proves true; even plain things, motifs she uses significantly in her story, assumes new meaning in the eyes of the reader. But more than this I think she writes lusciously, engaging the senses with the “warm, buttery, and bursting with full-fat promise” of her narration.
Before Ever After is a charming story peopled by quirky characters — from demure Shelley, mysterious Paolo, the affable Slight Detour tour group you would love to have for company in a backpack trip, up to the towering and dreamy Max, the central character that drives the story. Weaving together stories that at first seems random, spanning years, even centuries apart, it pretty much presents and moves the plot in a clever fashion drawing to an astonishing close that will soak up the reader to fit bits and odds into place. Yes, it is in every way a romance novel in the grand tradition of the genre; nevertheless, it perfectly underscores its theme of a love in its infinity goes beyond the test of time and the clutches of death with a mystical twist. By its end it will totally have the reader mesmerized and misty-eyed on to a bright morning, waking up to the realization that joy lies in the simple things in life, like a warm hug and the rich aroma of baked eggs and cheese hot off the oven, and that sometimes journeys may take you somewhere or nowhere but certainly the first and last step leads to forever.
_________________________
Book Details: Book #33 for 2011
Published by Crown Publishers
(Hardcover, 2011 First Edition)
297 pages
Started: August 15, 2011
Finished: August 19, 2011
My Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★
[See this review on my book blog Dark Chest of Wonders and for many others.]
September 4, 2011
I wish I could have liked this book. The author tried so hard that you could feel her effort on every page. She even used the love of chickens throughout the book to bind all the characters together. Other authors might have tried excellent writing and character development. Not this author. Chickens are the choice of this writer. I wish she could have left cutesy pie behind and actually written a novel without cardboard characters and amateurish writing.
This could have been a good book in the hands of a skilled novelist. The plot could have been interesting without
the chickens. Some of the back stories had promise. And, nowhere, could I find the promised magic.
This could have been a good book in the hands of a skilled novelist. The plot could have been interesting without
the chickens. Some of the back stories had promise. And, nowhere, could I find the promised magic.
August 15, 2011
3.5/5
There were things I loved, things that had me melting, and moments that just didn't compute. Before Ever After isn't something I'd normally pick having sworn off time travel romances... but the epilogue saved me from days of agonizing over what if's and what could be's. The very same epilogue that's got me craving baked eggs and cheese.
Positives.
The last book of stories in another story that I did read was one I didn't love so much. In it, I kept waiting for the big connect, the common thread that pulled everything together. Only there, said thread came a little too late for my taste. I ended up with was a series of good and not-so good stories that felt disjunct. Not the case here. OK, maybe I'm lazy but I liked knowing that each story in this one led to another one, that they all shared something in common. I appreciate the fact that Before Ever After isn't a rehash of other love story meets time tavel. You know, the ones that involve the same characters over and over again or those doomed to repeat mistakes of old unless something different is done? Instead, here there's one soul touching plenty of others. I loved that Ms. Sotto lays it out and makes things plain from the start, "Girl meets boy. Boy meets girl. Boy dies, but not really." Only Shelley and Max's love story isn't standard at all.
Add the fact that Before Ever After is pretty easy to follow and that's even with all the shifts from the then's and the now. Going from one steady continuous point in Shelley's present to most of Max's past and then to their past as a couple; things went by at a rather quick pace. It had me engaged, interested. And I thank gosh for clarity, not once did I get lost in it.
What's better is how each story had me feeling a little more connected to Max (in a mostly 'aaw' isn't he sweet/sad kind of way,) but also feeling slightly bitter and heartbroken for her. Because with each story is layer of what made Max Max.
I liked that she sounded so much like me: with her plans and lists, and her being scared. I liked that she came across as realistic, not uber beautiful but beautiful in his eyes. Not super brave given her constant statements of fear of commitment. Also, I liked how they all sounded! The people on the tour with them; the people in his stories; Paolo too. All off them, were if not sad and imperfect, were most defintely possible. Of course possible, whilst overlooking the time travel aspect. And convenient pairing among them too had me weaving stories and finding parallels in my head. Jonathan to his Rose, almost had me imagining what Max and Shelley would be like. Simon and Brad, new to each other, another pair M & S could become. And Dex! Whose story was sweet but honestly, just a little strange.
But most of all I liked how each new thing she learned had her seeing him in different light. He was far from perfect... but could be selfish, even heartless IMO.
Negatives.
A tad unbelievable was how easily she came to believe Paolo. (Yes, I know this is a weird place to start nitpicking over what's 'incredible,' especially since BEA is premised on time travel or more specifically ) But, I found it incredible to have this woman jump on a plane on the heels of a virtual stranger mainly because he bore an uncanny resemblance to her three years dead husband! Any way... it is what it is and she believed what she did.
And the sudden (re)introduction of a needless foe, one literaly taken to be the bogey man. I mean wasn't Max's life complicated enough with time travel, imortality and a grandson lookalike?
The ending too would have annoyed me no end! But thank gosh I was patient enough to turn that last page and see then read the epilogue.
Again, said epilogue has got me dreaming of baked eggs and cheese.
There were things I loved, things that had me melting, and moments that just didn't compute. Before Ever After isn't something I'd normally pick having sworn off time travel romances... but the epilogue saved me from days of agonizing over what if's and what could be's. The very same epilogue that's got me craving baked eggs and cheese.
Positives.
The last book of stories in another story that I did read was one I didn't love so much. In it, I kept waiting for the big connect, the common thread that pulled everything together. Only there, said thread came a little too late for my taste. I ended up with was a series of good and not-so good stories that felt disjunct. Not the case here. OK, maybe I'm lazy but I liked knowing that each story in this one led to another one, that they all shared something in common. I appreciate the fact that Before Ever After isn't a rehash of other love story meets time tavel. You know, the ones that involve the same characters over and over again or those doomed to repeat mistakes of old unless something different is done? Instead, here there's one soul touching plenty of others. I loved that Ms. Sotto lays it out and makes things plain from the start, "Girl meets boy. Boy meets girl. Boy dies, but not really." Only Shelley and Max's love story isn't standard at all.
Add the fact that Before Ever After is pretty easy to follow and that's even with all the shifts from the then's and the now. Going from one steady continuous point in Shelley's present to most of Max's past and then to their past as a couple; things went by at a rather quick pace. It had me engaged, interested. And I thank gosh for clarity, not once did I get lost in it.
What's better is how each story had me feeling a little more connected to Max (in a mostly 'aaw' isn't he sweet/sad kind of way,) but also feeling slightly bitter and heartbroken for her. Because with each story is layer of what made Max Max.
I liked that she sounded so much like me: with her plans and lists, and her being scared. I liked that she came across as realistic, not uber beautiful but beautiful in his eyes. Not super brave given her constant statements of fear of commitment. Also, I liked how they all sounded! The people on the tour with them; the people in his stories; Paolo too. All off them, were if not sad and imperfect, were most defintely possible. Of course possible, whilst overlooking the time travel aspect. And convenient pairing among them too had me weaving stories and finding parallels in my head. Jonathan to his Rose, almost had me imagining what Max and Shelley would be like. Simon and Brad, new to each other, another pair M & S could become. And Dex! Whose story was sweet but honestly, just a little strange.
But most of all I liked how each new thing she learned had her seeing him in different light. He was far from perfect... but could be selfish, even heartless IMO.
Negatives.
A tad unbelievable was how easily she came to believe Paolo. (Yes, I know this is a weird place to start nitpicking over what's 'incredible,' especially since BEA is premised on time travel or more specifically ) But, I found it incredible to have this woman jump on a plane on the heels of a virtual stranger mainly because he bore an uncanny resemblance to her three years dead husband! Any way... it is what it is and she believed what she did.
And the sudden (re)introduction of a needless foe, one literaly taken to be the bogey man. I mean wasn't Max's life complicated enough with time travel, imortality and a grandson lookalike?
The ending too would have annoyed me no end! But thank gosh I was patient enough to turn that last page and see then read the epilogue.
Again, said epilogue has got me dreaming of baked eggs and cheese.
September 6, 2011
STORY:
Shelley is devastated with grief over her husband Max’s death. Then one day a familiar stranger knocks on her door, and Shelley’s world is turned upside down. There is more to her husband than she realized. Who was Max?
WRITING STYLE:
The prose was a bit bizarre for me— I love it one minute, it grates on me the next. Not because it was horrible, but because for me the writing bears a slightly freakish resemblance to fanfiction. I can't pinpoint it exactly, but it gave me that vibe. (Let it be known that I'm a big fan of fanfiction-- I'm just not used to seeing it on the printed page).
ENJOYMENT FACTOR:
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud from a number of funny lines. I thought Max (in all his incarnations) genuinely funny, quirky, and fascinating. There were a number of poignant scenes (my favorite was with the Abbott somewhere around 1000 A.D.) The book is a mish-mash of all my favorite fantasies: country-hopping adventure, a journey through time and history (but no, there isn’t any time travel involved), romance, hot guys, hot-guy-ogling, good food. What I didn’t like: some parts were overly melodramatic or cheesy. Now, I have a high tolerance for melodrama (else Jennifer Donnelly won’t be one of my fave authors) but cheesiness just makes me roll my eyes. Also, while Max is fascinating, I found Shelley relatively cardboard-dry. I never really empathized with her or her motivations. And I couldn’t understand what was so special about her that would make an immortal guy fall. Thankfully, Shelley doesn’t veer too far into Mary Sue territory and they were already married so I could overlook this. The meat of the book is about Max, and his story kept me turning pages.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS (The X Factor):
Do you remember those fantasies you had in high school? Hot guy on your heels, sweeping you off your feet into one fantastic adventure. To add to the mystery, Dream Boat is a Demon/Vampire/Insert-Paranormal-Trope-Here. And filthy rich to boot (how else could you live in the lap of luxury and afford your globe-trotting escapades?). You may have tried putting your fantasy in writing (inevitably with a Mary Sue stand-in) but soon gave up as it became increasingly obvious that your story had devolved into utter dreck. But never fear, Before Ever After Is Here! All your favorite fantasies are realized and collected into one cohesive plot that makes sense! If your fantasies were similar to mine, it’s almost a wish a come true. Of course, if you deem such fantasies beneath you, I doubt you will find much enjoyment in the book. Rating: 3.5 stars
Shelley is devastated with grief over her husband Max’s death. Then one day a familiar stranger knocks on her door, and Shelley’s world is turned upside down. There is more to her husband than she realized. Who was Max?
WRITING STYLE:
The prose was a bit bizarre for me— I love it one minute, it grates on me the next. Not because it was horrible, but because for me the writing bears a slightly freakish resemblance to fanfiction. I can't pinpoint it exactly, but it gave me that vibe. (Let it be known that I'm a big fan of fanfiction-- I'm just not used to seeing it on the printed page).
ENJOYMENT FACTOR:
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud from a number of funny lines. I thought Max (in all his incarnations) genuinely funny, quirky, and fascinating. There were a number of poignant scenes (my favorite was with the Abbott somewhere around 1000 A.D.) The book is a mish-mash of all my favorite fantasies: country-hopping adventure, a journey through time and history (but no, there isn’t any time travel involved), romance, hot guys, hot-guy-ogling, good food. What I didn’t like: some parts were overly melodramatic or cheesy. Now, I have a high tolerance for melodrama (else Jennifer Donnelly won’t be one of my fave authors) but cheesiness just makes me roll my eyes. Also, while Max is fascinating, I found Shelley relatively cardboard-dry. I never really empathized with her or her motivations. And I couldn’t understand what was so special about her that would make an immortal guy fall. Thankfully, Shelley doesn’t veer too far into Mary Sue territory and they were already married so I could overlook this. The meat of the book is about Max, and his story kept me turning pages.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS (The X Factor):
Do you remember those fantasies you had in high school? Hot guy on your heels, sweeping you off your feet into one fantastic adventure. To add to the mystery, Dream Boat is a Demon/Vampire/Insert-Paranormal-Trope-Here. And filthy rich to boot (how else could you live in the lap of luxury and afford your globe-trotting escapades?). You may have tried putting your fantasy in writing (inevitably with a Mary Sue stand-in) but soon gave up as it became increasingly obvious that your story had devolved into utter dreck. But never fear, Before Ever After Is Here! All your favorite fantasies are realized and collected into one cohesive plot that makes sense! If your fantasies were similar to mine, it’s almost a wish a come true. Of course, if you deem such fantasies beneath you, I doubt you will find much enjoyment in the book. Rating: 3.5 stars
May 13, 2015
The premise of this book snagged me as much as the cover (I know not to judge a book by it's cover. Shut up about it already). A woman's husband dies in an accident and she's miserable until she finds out he didn't really die...that he is actually still alive somewhere and, even weirder, his grandson who looks just like him is the one to tell her? How could this be? I SO wanted to read the book based on that.
Unfortunately, I think the book was a bit confused. The story could have been told in a serious fashion, like The Time Traveler's Wife or it could have been told in fairy tale fashion. It could have been lighthearted and whimsical or it could have had serious underpinnings of depth and mixed emotions. It tried to do all of those things and I think that's where it mainly failed. It's not light, cute chick-lit and it's not sci-fi/fantasy and it's not serious and it's not a modern fairy tale. There's just nothing to hold onto.
I had a problem with the language, as well, in general. Bits like, "He wiped the sweat from his brow. A cloud drifted overhead. The air cooled enough for a breath of hope." This describes a guy who is going home, not sweating in the hot afternoon sun. This is an unnecessary build up to the next part where he feels estranged from his family: "He had left as a husband and a father but on each return he felt more and more like a stranger. Maybe this reunion with his family would be different. The sun broke through. Salt dripped into his eyes. MORE WELLED IN THEM." Really? These are his going-home feelings? It's just too much for me, too high school, too trying-too-hard.
Another problem I had was that there were too many short stories. A story within a story is fine...it's fairly common so we're used to it. But a story within a story during another story? Shelley's present + Shelley and Max's past + All of Max's pasts throughout the ages is too much.
I didn't like Shelley. She does nothing to distinguish herself. She's flaky and pouty and childish (not in an endearing way) I do not believe she'd have caught Max's eye. Max is rather flat, as well. He's flippant and cute and charming...which probably wouldn't be the case for a guy who'd been around for umpteen hundred years. Their conversations are often stilted and contrived. His pontifications over historical information sound as if they were copied-and-pasted from Lonely Planet guides.
I think I should have been glad that Shelley, at very long last, finally did something for herself (she never had to do anything for herself throughout the book; all decisions were made for her) and took a stance. I would rather have had her kidnapped and tortured by the other immortal guy, but I was ok with her finally doing something with her life, even if it was melodramatically romantic.
Regardless, it was a quick read (despite my taking a month to get through it) and as I said before, the premise was fascinating to me, so it wasn't a total bust.
Unfortunately, I think the book was a bit confused. The story could have been told in a serious fashion, like The Time Traveler's Wife or it could have been told in fairy tale fashion. It could have been lighthearted and whimsical or it could have had serious underpinnings of depth and mixed emotions. It tried to do all of those things and I think that's where it mainly failed. It's not light, cute chick-lit and it's not sci-fi/fantasy and it's not serious and it's not a modern fairy tale. There's just nothing to hold onto.
I had a problem with the language, as well, in general. Bits like, "He wiped the sweat from his brow. A cloud drifted overhead. The air cooled enough for a breath of hope." This describes a guy who is going home, not sweating in the hot afternoon sun. This is an unnecessary build up to the next part where he feels estranged from his family: "He had left as a husband and a father but on each return he felt more and more like a stranger. Maybe this reunion with his family would be different. The sun broke through. Salt dripped into his eyes. MORE WELLED IN THEM." Really? These are his going-home feelings? It's just too much for me, too high school, too trying-too-hard.
Another problem I had was that there were too many short stories. A story within a story is fine...it's fairly common so we're used to it. But a story within a story during another story? Shelley's present + Shelley and Max's past + All of Max's pasts throughout the ages is too much.
I didn't like Shelley. She does nothing to distinguish herself. She's flaky and pouty and childish (not in an endearing way) I do not believe she'd have caught Max's eye. Max is rather flat, as well. He's flippant and cute and charming...which probably wouldn't be the case for a guy who'd been around for umpteen hundred years. Their conversations are often stilted and contrived. His pontifications over historical information sound as if they were copied-and-pasted from Lonely Planet guides.
I think I should have been glad that Shelley, at very long last, finally did something for herself (she never had to do anything for herself throughout the book; all decisions were made for her) and took a stance. I would rather have had her kidnapped and tortured by the other immortal guy, but I was ok with her finally doing something with her life, even if it was melodramatically romantic.
Regardless, it was a quick read (despite my taking a month to get through it) and as I said before, the premise was fascinating to me, so it wasn't a total bust.
September 23, 2011
Before Ever After was just interesting enough that I had to finish it, but I hated myself for it the whole time. It's just so silly. Shelley is a complete Mary Sue: she thinks everyone she meets is asthmatic, because they all involuntarily gasp at her beauty, but (of course) she has no idea how beautiful she is. Gag. And Max's overuse of "luv" is how people who don't know any English people think that English people speak. It's the written version of Dick Van Dyke's terrible Cockney accent in Mary Poppins, except Dick still manages to be charming. Max is creepy, and the chicken fixation doesn't help.
July 29, 2021
This was really cute! Max and Shelley's relationship suffered from insta-love, but the trips through history and lifetimes was so immersive I can forgive them for it. I loved it!
November 4, 2011
I truly hate to condemn a book, especially a first novel, because a work evolves from the writer's soul. I realize how much blood, sweat and tears goes into a project. However, I have no clue as to why Before Ever After could ever muster a following let alone, in all honesty, be published. I know that's harsh and part of me feels bad. Some of Sotto's writing and her way with words throughout the book were admirable, and at the same time vexing. I'd find myself mumbling "what??".
I had such hopes when I chose Before Ever After, but was disappointed at how the story turned. Maybe it's my age...I'm mid-century, but much of Shelley's actions and meanderings I found trite and ridiculous. Do young women REALLY talk and think that way about men? Maybe I AM too old. Seriously,this was one of the most annoying reads in a very long time. Several times I almost slammed it shut but I wanted to give the author a chance and I wanted to see if the ending lived up to the enticing snippets I'd read on the back cover. By the end, and pardon my language, I simply said WTF?
The ending was a bummer,regardless of how you decide to interpret it. Throughout the novel, I personally didn't like the back and forth from 5 years ago to NOW then back in history to relive....well don't want to give too much away.
Sotto has promise as a novelist but I think she possibly just tried too hard in parts on this one and it came across that way, while other parts were simply trivial. She obviously has excellent historical knowledge but needs to possibly work on weaving her stories more coherently and with more likeability.
At any rate, I did not like the totality of the book but I did like the premise. Just wish it had lived up to the premise.
I had such hopes when I chose Before Ever After, but was disappointed at how the story turned. Maybe it's my age...I'm mid-century, but much of Shelley's actions and meanderings I found trite and ridiculous. Do young women REALLY talk and think that way about men? Maybe I AM too old. Seriously,this was one of the most annoying reads in a very long time. Several times I almost slammed it shut but I wanted to give the author a chance and I wanted to see if the ending lived up to the enticing snippets I'd read on the back cover. By the end, and pardon my language, I simply said WTF?
The ending was a bummer,regardless of how you decide to interpret it. Throughout the novel, I personally didn't like the back and forth from 5 years ago to NOW then back in history to relive....well don't want to give too much away.
Sotto has promise as a novelist but I think she possibly just tried too hard in parts on this one and it came across that way, while other parts were simply trivial. She obviously has excellent historical knowledge but needs to possibly work on weaving her stories more coherently and with more likeability.
At any rate, I did not like the totality of the book but I did like the premise. Just wish it had lived up to the premise.
September 5, 2011
This is not a review. I’m simply thinking out loud.
I’ve chewed on my thoughts far too long. Yet, all my thoughts were merely reduced to one question: “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?”
No, do not laugh at me. I’m serious. Well, I am, (except) I think that is a less complicated question than “which came first, life or death?” Then, of course, you’ll reply: “It’s the circle of life.” I’ve seen all the Lion King movies too, and I also bow to Mufasa’s wisdom; but another wiser being also said that “being born and dying are the easier parts, living in between is the hardest.” If living is hard, then living forever sucks! Right?
Maximillian’s immortal life is a consequence… a history in itself. It was written all over Europe. Marked by death; but highlighted with simple, yet profound details. Treading through his history was a discovery, discovering his life is a choice.
Max chose Shelly; and Shelly did choose to be with Max. Twice, she made that choice. She never wants to live forever; she simply wants to be with Max, happily ever after.
Which came first the chicken or the egg? Or, which came first, life or death? It is only through death that “ever after” is possible.
This book is more than a love story; neither a simple history, nor fantasy. It made me think more than twice; made me wish, regret, hope, and back again.
I’ve chewed on my thoughts far too long. Yet, all my thoughts were merely reduced to one question: “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?”
No, do not laugh at me. I’m serious. Well, I am, (except) I think that is a less complicated question than “which came first, life or death?” Then, of course, you’ll reply: “It’s the circle of life.” I’ve seen all the Lion King movies too, and I also bow to Mufasa’s wisdom; but another wiser being also said that “being born and dying are the easier parts, living in between is the hardest.” If living is hard, then living forever sucks! Right?
Maximillian’s immortal life is a consequence… a history in itself. It was written all over Europe. Marked by death; but highlighted with simple, yet profound details. Treading through his history was a discovery, discovering his life is a choice.
Max chose Shelly; and Shelly did choose to be with Max. Twice, she made that choice. She never wants to live forever; she simply wants to be with Max, happily ever after.
Which came first the chicken or the egg? Or, which came first, life or death? It is only through death that “ever after” is possible.
This book is more than a love story; neither a simple history, nor fantasy. It made me think more than twice; made me wish, regret, hope, and back again.
March 25, 2013
Eggs.
Whether its well done, sunny side up, creamy scrambled eggs, by the time I'm finished with this book, I was having egg withdrawals.
You guessed it. Before Ever After revolves around eggs which I think, for some time, was pretty out of the box. That and the egg hunt tour around Europe.
But then, it's what gave the novel a unique charm. I've always been in love with Europe. The cobbled streets lit by the warm glow of lamps. The brick houses and the castles. The history and culture that resonates even now.
For someone who can only dream about going to Europe, I felt nostalgic. Samantha Sotto takes you through Europe's streets with lush and vivid prose, with unexpected twists and turns.
Though it dragged at first and there were many questions left unanswered, what really set Before Ever After above other novels is Sotto's unrivaled take on immortality.
She defied the laws of fiction writing by beginning the past at the end and weaving it with the unfolding present(whew!).
After I read this book, I had a different perspective on eggs, basilisks, and endings.
PS. I'm extremely proud for this beautiful Pinay and her ode to the Philippines!
Whether its well done, sunny side up, creamy scrambled eggs, by the time I'm finished with this book, I was having egg withdrawals.
You guessed it. Before Ever After revolves around eggs which I think, for some time, was pretty out of the box. That and the egg hunt tour around Europe.
But then, it's what gave the novel a unique charm. I've always been in love with Europe. The cobbled streets lit by the warm glow of lamps. The brick houses and the castles. The history and culture that resonates even now.
For someone who can only dream about going to Europe, I felt nostalgic. Samantha Sotto takes you through Europe's streets with lush and vivid prose, with unexpected twists and turns.
Though it dragged at first and there were many questions left unanswered, what really set Before Ever After above other novels is Sotto's unrivaled take on immortality.
She defied the laws of fiction writing by beginning the past at the end and weaving it with the unfolding present(whew!).
After I read this book, I had a different perspective on eggs, basilisks, and endings.
PS. I'm extremely proud for this beautiful Pinay and her ode to the Philippines!
July 30, 2016
WOW! I loved this book. It's like a children's fairytale for grownups. An emotional walk backwards through history, an unusual journey through Europe, strong endearing characters, a beautful heartbreaking love story and chickens!! This book stole my heart and is one of my favorites of 2014 so far!
Rereading 6/18/16
Rereading 6/18/16
September 9, 2011
My Thoughts:
Man dies, woman mourns, five years later man who looks like husband shows up on doorstep claiming that he is said man’s grandson and that her once dead husband is thoroughly alive and well making baked eggs in a restaurant in Boracay. Oh, did I forget to mention he NEVER seems to age?
With that being said, after reading that how can you not want to read this book? I wanted answers to questions that the blurb left unanswered. I wanted to know who this mysterious Max was, why he never seemed to age and why he was hiding from his wife.
I did get those answers, and plenty more whilst I was reading, BEFORE EVER AFTER although as much as I enjoyed the back-story that was provided for both Max as well as his relationship with Shelley, I wanted to know what happened when she finally found her husband. Moreover, while I did get a bit of the story, I wanted more than eight pages. I hope that since this is her debut novel, she will put out a sequel that covers what happens after the last page.
I have to say that I loved the way this novel switched from past to present and the way it was seamlessly blended together. It held my attention to the very end, even though I will admit that I came to a certain part in the novel where I had to resist the urge to chuck it up against the wall. I will say that I was glad to have finished it.
This is one of those novels that you do not want to reveal too much about it to a potential reader because it could ruin it for the reader.
IF I COULD CHANGE SOMETHING ABOUT THIS NOVEL:
Make it longer. It was only 293 pages in the proof format, it could have easily went on to 400 pages or more and held the readers interest. I wanted to know more about what happened when she finally found her husband and since so little was offered I feel as though the story is not complete.
Overall:
It is unusual for a novel such as this to hold my attention, yet I was spellbound. I could not put it down until the very last page was read. I highly recommend this book
Warning:
When reading this novel you should have two things on hand: Eggs and Jasmine tea because by the end of this novel you will be craving both.
Man dies, woman mourns, five years later man who looks like husband shows up on doorstep claiming that he is said man’s grandson and that her once dead husband is thoroughly alive and well making baked eggs in a restaurant in Boracay. Oh, did I forget to mention he NEVER seems to age?
With that being said, after reading that how can you not want to read this book? I wanted answers to questions that the blurb left unanswered. I wanted to know who this mysterious Max was, why he never seemed to age and why he was hiding from his wife.
I did get those answers, and plenty more whilst I was reading, BEFORE EVER AFTER although as much as I enjoyed the back-story that was provided for both Max as well as his relationship with Shelley, I wanted to know what happened when she finally found her husband. Moreover, while I did get a bit of the story, I wanted more than eight pages. I hope that since this is her debut novel, she will put out a sequel that covers what happens after the last page.
I have to say that I loved the way this novel switched from past to present and the way it was seamlessly blended together. It held my attention to the very end, even though I will admit that I came to a certain part in the novel where I had to resist the urge to chuck it up against the wall. I will say that I was glad to have finished it.
This is one of those novels that you do not want to reveal too much about it to a potential reader because it could ruin it for the reader.
IF I COULD CHANGE SOMETHING ABOUT THIS NOVEL:
Make it longer. It was only 293 pages in the proof format, it could have easily went on to 400 pages or more and held the readers interest. I wanted to know more about what happened when she finally found her husband and since so little was offered I feel as though the story is not complete.
Overall:
It is unusual for a novel such as this to hold my attention, yet I was spellbound. I could not put it down until the very last page was read. I highly recommend this book
Warning:
When reading this novel you should have two things on hand: Eggs and Jasmine tea because by the end of this novel you will be craving both.
October 30, 2011
Before Ever After is a love story, but it didn't just stir up the lover that I am; it also awakened my desire to tour Europe more extensively; it prompted the cook in me to look up recipes for baked egg and cheese.
While reading through the chapters, I actually got lost in Max's many lifetimes. Later on though, I realized that it was necessary to build-up the story through the end - I could not wait for the plane to land on Philippine soil!
Samantha Sotto writes well (I don't know really how else to describe her writing). I would like to see something entirely different in her second novel, as I don't think it will be possible and justified to recreate even just a part of Shelley and Max's story.
While reading through the chapters, I actually got lost in Max's many lifetimes. Later on though, I realized that it was necessary to build-up the story through the end - I could not wait for the plane to land on Philippine soil!
Samantha Sotto writes well (I don't know really how else to describe her writing). I would like to see something entirely different in her second novel, as I don't think it will be possible and justified to recreate even just a part of Shelley and Max's story.
September 16, 2011
I loved the historical fiction. The transition of timelines is amusing.
I didn't focus much on Max & Shelley's love story. I didn't like Shelley but I loved the other characters. What captured me most is the different identities of Max Gallus. I always loved the story behind the history. Oh, and the baked eggs got me curious. What's the recipe? What could be that secret ingredient? A pinch of ----. Tsk!
I didn't focus much on Max & Shelley's love story. I didn't like Shelley but I loved the other characters. What captured me most is the different identities of Max Gallus. I always loved the story behind the history. Oh, and the baked eggs got me curious. What's the recipe? What could be that secret ingredient? A pinch of ----. Tsk!
September 3, 2011
I love this book so much! let's start off with the cover it's very pleasing and easy on the eyes it immediately caught my attention because of the title,cover art and the author she's Filipino! the edge of the pages looks and appeals to be really old torn like parchment.This novel warms my heart and entire existence to the core.Max and Shelley's tour along with their fellow campers around Europe was really awesome! I felt such uniqueness in every part of this very moving and amusing novel the side stories are amazing as well.What an Epic adventure!A tear jerker!hands down to Samantha Sotto I truly enjoyed the flow of these wonderful back and forth narration kept me company and nostalgic of my hometown.I actually felt like I'm one of the fellow travelers or bystanders watching the characters move from afar,eavesdropping to their conversations etc.
There's also a lot of chickens,life experiences,stories,valuable lessons and quotations you'll live by and never ever forget.This novel completely blown me away it's absolutely brilliant,well written and executed!I highly recommend it!
There's also a lot of chickens,life experiences,stories,valuable lessons and quotations you'll live by and never ever forget.This novel completely blown me away it's absolutely brilliant,well written and executed!I highly recommend it!
April 30, 2012
I found this book in the "reader's choice" section of my local library and thought it sounded fun and romantic. I was disappointed. I thought the writing was pedantic and a little bit cheesy. I don't mind cheesy if it's a book that doesn't take itself too seriously, but this one seems overly sentimental. I found it difficult to sympathize with any of the main characters; the most interesting character barely appeared in the story. My main issue with this book is silly, but it seriously bothered me: the hero (Max Gallus) kept calling the heroine (Shelly) "luv" from the moment they met. This instantly brought to mind a rumpled, slightly drunk, creepy old man with a Cockney accent, and totally ruined the illusion the author was trying to create of the hero being a young, charming, extremely handsome Italian man. And Max used the word "luv" every time he spoke to Shelley (which was a lot!). Gave me the creeps. But on a positive note, there were some fun stories peppered throughout the book that were kind of interesting, which is why I continued reading it at all.
January 10, 2013
I find it really dragging at first. Una pa lng sad na. Stalled yun mga memories, scattered even. But as I find my way to the end, it keeps on getting better and better. It has piqued my interest. Not only by the eggs and chickens but the stories behind Max. I liked it. The novel is sad but filled with hope.. my heart is full of hope.. I really want to believe that there's forever after for Max and Shelley..
"I have every reason to be sad, but I don't have any reason to mourn. People grieve when things end. Nothing has ended tonight. One of us has simply gone ahead as we always knew it would have to be."
~Eu
"I have every reason to be sad, but I don't have any reason to mourn. People grieve when things end. Nothing has ended tonight. One of us has simply gone ahead as we always knew it would have to be."
~Eu
March 26, 2013
Months ago, when I finished reading this book, I sent Ms. Samantha Sotto my personal reflection regarding her book. Luckily, she replied! So here goes her reply:
.................................................................................
Subject: Re: My Personal Reflection for Before Ever After
From:Samantha Sotto (sam@samanthasotto.com)
To:pangilinan_lorenzo@yahoo.com.ph;
Date:Friday, October 19, 2012 3:22 PM
Hi, Lorenzo!
WOW. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Before Ever After. I'm really happy to hear about the connection you felt with the book and its characters. You sound like a very insightful and wise young man. I'm flattered that the book has helped you on your journey to self-discovery in its own little way.
Have a great weekend! :)
Warmly,
Sam
................................................................................
Here's my personal thoughts and review for Before Ever After:
Heaven.
It wasn’t actually meant to be my last thought as I ended the novel. But it would have to do. Those lengthy and deep, positive adjectives that screamed to be picked could not stop my eyes from reading the Epilogue. I almost wondered if I had the time… and guts to say it out loud as I read and understood the final sentences. The fact remained however, that I am at my classroom and noise wasn’t an option.
I had difficulty determining which came first: my heart raising and overflowing with emotions as I read the ending, or my classmates calling my name reminding me that it was already lunch break. Nevertheless, I was certain that Silence would come afterwards. It always did inside my being.
. . .
For the past seven days this book had kept me company. It became my sanctuary. It never left my hands except on bathing times and eating moments. No wonder why my English version of Noli Me Tangere is at the moment frozen in time. With my bookmark still on the page I left it a week ago. I could almost tell it: “Hey now, be patient, Before Ever After is just an old friend.” Before Ever After had served as my Slight Detour from my Filipino subject. Although I had enjoyed Rizal’s political and religious comments, one can also be tired from too much ranting hidden behind a love story.
(Yes, but for a Slight Detour wonderful as this one; one would ultimately forget that the Main Tour exists.)
Growing up as an only child I have been trained to face my life alone. Much like Gestrin. “I have been alone and would stay alone” says my old conviction. But another voice inside me doesn’t seem to be mine and it says otherwise. It is the voice filling up the void called Silence. This is the voice that ultimately reminds me that I am not alone, my conscience at times—and it is the voice of my supposed-to-be-born elder brother. My father and mother were never like Maximus and Livia however. They had only one child that died from miscarriage.
They were upset of course. But that was until I was born. That was Before Ever After.
I am their Ever After.
The dream they choose to live for. And that I will forever be grateful.
. . .
However, I have my own sentiments. Own, I do not even know if I deserve that now. Own in the sense that I can feel an inner connection from my supposed to be elder brother. I can feel somehow that he is a part of me. That he is my companion. That he chose to live the dreams he could never live through me. As stupendous this idea suggests, there is always a madman inside of us (according to Terry Prachet's The Light Fantastic). And this is not the cause of Salmonella. I like my eggs boiled or fried.
My brother was my Before Ever After.
I now understand that he had made his choice. He wanted to live, and for that he is now an immortal carved out of my memories. I will remember him. Yes I am the end of this lineage, for now I am somehow, the living Isabelle.
But an ending is always just a beginning.
That is what this novel taught me.
Endings, beginnings, I do not know where to start. It seems fully, that they both are round just like the world… the same world that had ended before and began anew.
That is why I choose to begin anew. Anew from my jaded and cynical thoughts about love, life, my dreams and aspirations. I am determined to be more positive and appreciative of the life that I have while I still have it. I will live the dreams that I could live. I will learn from Max’s example and ultimately understand that each of us is someone’s Ever After.
But I have also my attachments regarding Max. Though we might not have the same amber eyes, we still have some commonalities: ranging from my personal belief that all choices do intersect to my old foolish thought of being half a man. We also have the same love for chickens although my love for poultry is somewhat more cuisine-like.
In the end I thank you Samantha Sotto for helping me find myself. My unknown self. That self that I have yearned for and sought after to be my companion. Thank you, that I have regained my trust in love. May I find my Shelley soon in this lifetime of mine. Thank you, that I am now watchful and more acceptant of both my mistakes and right choices, these are after all what defines us ultimately. And as the realities of fairy tales and the real world intersect, the great Gnomon gives me a final thought:
Can you be immortal? Can one be ageless?
Yes.
But I choose not to be.
.................................................................................
There goes my melodramatic reflection. But don't get me wrong, the novel was so personal to me. In the end I conclude that the novel gets a perfect score because of its delicious quality which keeps readers hooked. And also, damn, I'm really not into romance but this novel sparked my interest in the genre!
PLEASE RECOMMEND THIS BOOK! =)
.................................................................................
Subject: Re: My Personal Reflection for Before Ever After
From:Samantha Sotto (sam@samanthasotto.com)
To:pangilinan_lorenzo@yahoo.com.ph;
Date:Friday, October 19, 2012 3:22 PM
Hi, Lorenzo!
WOW. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Before Ever After. I'm really happy to hear about the connection you felt with the book and its characters. You sound like a very insightful and wise young man. I'm flattered that the book has helped you on your journey to self-discovery in its own little way.
Have a great weekend! :)
Warmly,
Sam
................................................................................
Here's my personal thoughts and review for Before Ever After:
Heaven.
It wasn’t actually meant to be my last thought as I ended the novel. But it would have to do. Those lengthy and deep, positive adjectives that screamed to be picked could not stop my eyes from reading the Epilogue. I almost wondered if I had the time… and guts to say it out loud as I read and understood the final sentences. The fact remained however, that I am at my classroom and noise wasn’t an option.
I had difficulty determining which came first: my heart raising and overflowing with emotions as I read the ending, or my classmates calling my name reminding me that it was already lunch break. Nevertheless, I was certain that Silence would come afterwards. It always did inside my being.
. . .
For the past seven days this book had kept me company. It became my sanctuary. It never left my hands except on bathing times and eating moments. No wonder why my English version of Noli Me Tangere is at the moment frozen in time. With my bookmark still on the page I left it a week ago. I could almost tell it: “Hey now, be patient, Before Ever After is just an old friend.” Before Ever After had served as my Slight Detour from my Filipino subject. Although I had enjoyed Rizal’s political and religious comments, one can also be tired from too much ranting hidden behind a love story.
(Yes, but for a Slight Detour wonderful as this one; one would ultimately forget that the Main Tour exists.)
Growing up as an only child I have been trained to face my life alone. Much like Gestrin. “I have been alone and would stay alone” says my old conviction. But another voice inside me doesn’t seem to be mine and it says otherwise. It is the voice filling up the void called Silence. This is the voice that ultimately reminds me that I am not alone, my conscience at times—and it is the voice of my supposed-to-be-born elder brother. My father and mother were never like Maximus and Livia however. They had only one child that died from miscarriage.
They were upset of course. But that was until I was born. That was Before Ever After.
I am their Ever After.
The dream they choose to live for. And that I will forever be grateful.
. . .
However, I have my own sentiments. Own, I do not even know if I deserve that now. Own in the sense that I can feel an inner connection from my supposed to be elder brother. I can feel somehow that he is a part of me. That he is my companion. That he chose to live the dreams he could never live through me. As stupendous this idea suggests, there is always a madman inside of us (according to Terry Prachet's The Light Fantastic). And this is not the cause of Salmonella. I like my eggs boiled or fried.
My brother was my Before Ever After.
I now understand that he had made his choice. He wanted to live, and for that he is now an immortal carved out of my memories. I will remember him. Yes I am the end of this lineage, for now I am somehow, the living Isabelle.
But an ending is always just a beginning.
That is what this novel taught me.
Endings, beginnings, I do not know where to start. It seems fully, that they both are round just like the world… the same world that had ended before and began anew.
That is why I choose to begin anew. Anew from my jaded and cynical thoughts about love, life, my dreams and aspirations. I am determined to be more positive and appreciative of the life that I have while I still have it. I will live the dreams that I could live. I will learn from Max’s example and ultimately understand that each of us is someone’s Ever After.
But I have also my attachments regarding Max. Though we might not have the same amber eyes, we still have some commonalities: ranging from my personal belief that all choices do intersect to my old foolish thought of being half a man. We also have the same love for chickens although my love for poultry is somewhat more cuisine-like.
In the end I thank you Samantha Sotto for helping me find myself. My unknown self. That self that I have yearned for and sought after to be my companion. Thank you, that I have regained my trust in love. May I find my Shelley soon in this lifetime of mine. Thank you, that I am now watchful and more acceptant of both my mistakes and right choices, these are after all what defines us ultimately. And as the realities of fairy tales and the real world intersect, the great Gnomon gives me a final thought:
Can you be immortal? Can one be ageless?
Yes.
But I choose not to be.
.................................................................................
There goes my melodramatic reflection. But don't get me wrong, the novel was so personal to me. In the end I conclude that the novel gets a perfect score because of its delicious quality which keeps readers hooked. And also, damn, I'm really not into romance but this novel sparked my interest in the genre!
PLEASE RECOMMEND THIS BOOK! =)
June 16, 2019
A most intriguing story about love, life, and death. What does it all mean?
Magical realism, history, romance, and chickens and eggs all come together in this tale.
For Shelley Gallus, she has had a rough couple years after her beloved Max is killed. Devastated, she feels half-alive when a young man, Paolo, shows up on her doorstep with a wild tale about her husband Max still being alive. Not only that, but he claims that Max is his grandfather.
As they trace the path of previous events that began with an odd European tour taken in a micro-bus, history is revealed. Countless characters pop up throughout, but each is important.
Delightful read...and I'll be contemplating it long after it is out of my hands.
Magical realism, history, romance, and chickens and eggs all come together in this tale.
For Shelley Gallus, she has had a rough couple years after her beloved Max is killed. Devastated, she feels half-alive when a young man, Paolo, shows up on her doorstep with a wild tale about her husband Max still being alive. Not only that, but he claims that Max is his grandfather.
As they trace the path of previous events that began with an odd European tour taken in a micro-bus, history is revealed. Countless characters pop up throughout, but each is important.
Delightful read...and I'll be contemplating it long after it is out of my hands.
January 28, 2021
“It appears that you were meant to be mine only for a little while.”
If only this picture really shows how Max and Shelley lived and loved.
“If we accept time for what it is, how it flows and how we flow with it, I doubt very much that would continue wasting loads of it by constantly checking our watches.”
I wanted to read this book ever since I chanced upon it during our third year college days. During our junior year in college, one of our "projects" for literature was to write a thesis about a book (which would have to be approved by our professor). I was tasked to take down all the the titles of the books (for the class) and pass it to our prof. And so of course, this book was on that list (thanks to my dear friend, Roselle). I was curious with its title. "Before ever after" has a nice ring to it doesn't it (or is it just me?). At first, I thought that it would just be another cheesy/romance novel (don't get me wrong, I like romance and all that but I'm not into the whole cheesy like twilight thing-->sorry for the fans!) that ends with ever after but what really got me curious was the word "BEFORE". It begs the question, what happens prior to the cliche "happily ever after". And so I read the synopsis and that really did it for me. A love story with a hint of mystery, adventures and fantasy. After more than a year of wanting to read this book, I finally got to it.
Before ever after is the story of how Shelley, a widow, found her husband, Max Gallus, before AND after his 'death'. With the help of her husband's grandson, Paolo, they travel a whole continent to seek the truth behind each story Max told her (and their tour group) when they first met on their European roadtrip 5 years ago and perhaps even find her husband at the end.
Max was the tour guide during this euro trip and instead of bringing his group to the usual crowded tourist places, he takes them on a secret guided tour of Europe with the most enchanting stories (including tales of CHICKENS!) behind each place. He tells the story of a family over the centuries starting in the year 1871 and ending in A.D 79 which somehow became their guide to the beautiful adventures and memories they had on this trip. Shelley must then find out the true meaning of life and love as well as to face her fears as the tour draws closer to the end. And also through these stories of love and loss, Shelley and Paolo must put together the story of the man they both loved and lost and somehow long to see again.
Before Ever After is a unique book in itself. Although the book is really a love story, it did not go overboard in all the romance because the author was able to balance it with the adventures and the mysteries. It is also a story of a fascinating history, and a discussion of life, time, love, devotion and death (if you want to put it that way).
It is an intriguing story that will certainly make you ask for more. One minute you're in the 'now' and next you'll be thrown centuries before, then to 5 years ago and back again. I know that it seems confusing and it really gave me a headache when I first started reading it but as I continue following the adventures of Shelley, Max and the tour group, I must admit that I just have to read on. I can't put the book down! I find that each chapter/part of the story is so compelling not only because it is relevant or significant to finding out the truth behind Max and his secrets but because each part really holds a beautiful story with the history and the mysteries. I know that I'm saying it over and over again about the history and all but I think that the "reminiscing" theme is what makes this book more interesting. And even after reading it, it still got me thinking and wondering of the stories told and the ending of this fascinating book. I was happy, I was sad, I was confused, I was shocked. I didn't exactly know what to feel by the end of it.
The author was able to blend wonderfully the romance, history, adventure, mystery and humor and she was able to make the past come to life through ordinary people coping with the extraordinary chain of events. For me, this book is more than just a story of love, of history, or fantasy because it will make you think, wish, hope, and remember.
“Life is a barter of choice and consequences.”
See the official book trailer here
If only this picture really shows how Max and Shelley lived and loved.
“If we accept time for what it is, how it flows and how we flow with it, I doubt very much that would continue wasting loads of it by constantly checking our watches.”
I wanted to read this book ever since I chanced upon it during our third year college days. During our junior year in college, one of our "projects" for literature was to write a thesis about a book (which would have to be approved by our professor). I was tasked to take down all the the titles of the books (for the class) and pass it to our prof. And so of course, this book was on that list (thanks to my dear friend, Roselle). I was curious with its title. "Before ever after" has a nice ring to it doesn't it (or is it just me?). At first, I thought that it would just be another cheesy/romance novel (don't get me wrong, I like romance and all that but I'm not into the whole cheesy like twilight thing-->sorry for the fans!) that ends with ever after but what really got me curious was the word "BEFORE". It begs the question, what happens prior to the cliche "happily ever after". And so I read the synopsis and that really did it for me. A love story with a hint of mystery, adventures and fantasy. After more than a year of wanting to read this book, I finally got to it.
Before ever after is the story of how Shelley, a widow, found her husband, Max Gallus, before AND after his 'death'. With the help of her husband's grandson, Paolo, they travel a whole continent to seek the truth behind each story Max told her (and their tour group) when they first met on their European roadtrip 5 years ago and perhaps even find her husband at the end.
Might I just add that they are going to the Philippines! And yes, I know that the author is a Filipino but it just feels weird and at the same time wonderful to see 'your' country being mentioned nicely in books that are published worldwide
Max was the tour guide during this euro trip and instead of bringing his group to the usual crowded tourist places, he takes them on a secret guided tour of Europe with the most enchanting stories (including tales of CHICKENS!) behind each place. He tells the story of a family over the centuries starting in the year 1871 and ending in A.D 79 which somehow became their guide to the beautiful adventures and memories they had on this trip. Shelley must then find out the true meaning of life and love as well as to face her fears as the tour draws closer to the end. And also through these stories of love and loss, Shelley and Paolo must put together the story of the man they both loved and lost and somehow long to see again.
Before Ever After is a unique book in itself. Although the book is really a love story, it did not go overboard in all the romance because the author was able to balance it with the adventures and the mysteries. It is also a story of a fascinating history, and a discussion of life, time, love, devotion and death (if you want to put it that way).
It is an intriguing story that will certainly make you ask for more. One minute you're in the 'now' and next you'll be thrown centuries before, then to 5 years ago and back again. I know that it seems confusing and it really gave me a headache when I first started reading it but as I continue following the adventures of Shelley, Max and the tour group, I must admit that I just have to read on. I can't put the book down! I find that each chapter/part of the story is so compelling not only because it is relevant or significant to finding out the truth behind Max and his secrets but because each part really holds a beautiful story with the history and the mysteries. I know that I'm saying it over and over again about the history and all but I think that the "reminiscing" theme is what makes this book more interesting. And even after reading it, it still got me thinking and wondering of the stories told and the ending of this fascinating book. I was happy, I was sad, I was confused, I was shocked. I didn't exactly know what to feel by the end of it.
The author was able to blend wonderfully the romance, history, adventure, mystery and humor and she was able to make the past come to life through ordinary people coping with the extraordinary chain of events. For me, this book is more than just a story of love, of history, or fantasy because it will make you think, wish, hope, and remember.
“Life is a barter of choice and consequences.”
See the official book trailer here
May 29, 2017
Oh yes, I really enjoyed this book.
A tantalising scenario of a woman, three years after her husband's death, is confronted on her doorstep by a young man, the spitting image of her husband, who shows her a photo of his grandfather.
Impossible as it seems the grandfather is the dead husband, and he's alive and well.
So begins a wonderful tale of a journey across continents, in search of the truth.
The dialogue fairly crackles along and is both amusing and absorbing.
Give it a whirl!
A tantalising scenario of a woman, three years after her husband's death, is confronted on her doorstep by a young man, the spitting image of her husband, who shows her a photo of his grandfather.
Impossible as it seems the grandfather is the dead husband, and he's alive and well.
So begins a wonderful tale of a journey across continents, in search of the truth.
The dialogue fairly crackles along and is both amusing and absorbing.
Give it a whirl!
July 29, 2023
I read and posted this on my Facebook page on July 29, 2017.
I have only one word to describe this book...
Magical.
I have only one word to describe this book...
Magical.
June 28, 2022
This novel almost defies description. Historical fiction? Magical realism? Romance? Fantasy? As with many of my favorite novels, one label is not sufficient to describe it. This book did remind me of several other books - most notably People of the Book (I think because it starts now and travels back to the distant past), but also How to Stop Time, The Man of Legends, and The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August.
The beginning seems ordinary, if tragic - Shelley is on holiday with her husband and some friends when a bomb takes the life of her husband Max. She moves on with her life, but a few years later a young man, Paolo who bears remarkable likeness to her husband, knocks with a fantastic story. Max - known to him as Nonno - is his grandfather. And still alive at a remote Philippine location. Thus begins Shelley & Paolo's journey to locate him. On the journey, we get a look at how Shelley & Max met while he was an unusual tour guide - taking his charges through history. While told in multiple timelines, it is skillfully done and the reader comes to believe that Through the tour, we are taken to France, to Switzerland, to Austria, to Slovenia, and to Italy. We are also traveling through time from the French Revolution, to Medieval times, and as far back as the eruption of Vesuvius. All in all a huge sweep of time brought down to one person at a time. We are all histories - of ourselves and all of our forebears.
Quotes I liked:
It didn't end with "happily ever after." And now...she knew why: The story went on. She took a deep breath. It was time to write the rest of it.
Working with the chaos of pebbles and broken tile reminded her that almost everything made sense after one took a few steps back.
We change at least one person's life just by being born. If you don't believe me, go ask your mother.
It [a sundial] is the closest we can come to grasping what time really means. It moves on whether you wind it or not. It doesn't have a snooze button you can hit to bargain for an extra five minutes. The earth turns, the sun rises and sets, and there is absolutely nothing you or I can do about it.
Where we are now is where a lifetime's worth of steps have taken us.
Time didn't matter much when you were happy to be in the second where you were.
...because when I've forgotten everything else, I'll feel that ache...that tightness in my throat... that heaviness in my chest...and know that I loved a woman once and she loved me back. It's proof that I existed and so did she.
Dying is not the real tragedy...Forgetting is.
...that's what life is - a barter of choices and consequences. Nothing you have is without a price paid by yourself or someone else. Somedays you will get more than what you paid for and on others you will pay more than you should.
The beginning seems ordinary, if tragic - Shelley is on holiday with her husband and some friends when a bomb takes the life of her husband Max. She moves on with her life, but a few years later a young man, Paolo who bears remarkable likeness to her husband, knocks with a fantastic story. Max - known to him as Nonno - is his grandfather. And still alive at a remote Philippine location. Thus begins Shelley & Paolo's journey to locate him. On the journey, we get a look at how Shelley & Max met while he was an unusual tour guide - taking his charges through history. While told in multiple timelines, it is skillfully done and the reader comes to believe that Through the tour, we are taken to France, to Switzerland, to Austria, to Slovenia, and to Italy. We are also traveling through time from the French Revolution, to Medieval times, and as far back as the eruption of Vesuvius. All in all a huge sweep of time brought down to one person at a time. We are all histories - of ourselves and all of our forebears.
Quotes I liked:
It didn't end with "happily ever after." And now...she knew why: The story went on. She took a deep breath. It was time to write the rest of it.
Working with the chaos of pebbles and broken tile reminded her that almost everything made sense after one took a few steps back.
We change at least one person's life just by being born. If you don't believe me, go ask your mother.
It [a sundial] is the closest we can come to grasping what time really means. It moves on whether you wind it or not. It doesn't have a snooze button you can hit to bargain for an extra five minutes. The earth turns, the sun rises and sets, and there is absolutely nothing you or I can do about it.
Where we are now is where a lifetime's worth of steps have taken us.
Time didn't matter much when you were happy to be in the second where you were.
...because when I've forgotten everything else, I'll feel that ache...that tightness in my throat... that heaviness in my chest...and know that I loved a woman once and she loved me back. It's proof that I existed and so did she.
Dying is not the real tragedy...Forgetting is.
...that's what life is - a barter of choices and consequences. Nothing you have is without a price paid by yourself or someone else. Somedays you will get more than what you paid for and on others you will pay more than you should.
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