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Cornerstone #1
Goodbye, Magnolia
Wedding photography is Maggie's passion. The art of capturing a moment forever in time is magical to her, and she's worked hard to become the best of the best. Week after week, she works with couples as they plan their happily ever afters, but she hasn't been so lucky in love.
Behind the camera, it's easy to hide from the pain and rejection of her past. The life she has made for herself is safe and predictable, until the owner of a rival photography studio sets up shop in her small town and comes to her with an unexpected proposal. Suddenly, everything she has worked so hard to build is threatened and her simple, controlled life is thrown into chaos.
As she travels the state of Michigan photographing weddings, she struggles to keep her business afloat and the wall around her heart intact. But along the way, she learns more about loyalty and love than she ever imagined.
Behind the camera, it's easy to hide from the pain and rejection of her past. The life she has made for herself is safe and predictable, until the owner of a rival photography studio sets up shop in her small town and comes to her with an unexpected proposal. Suddenly, everything she has worked so hard to build is threatened and her simple, controlled life is thrown into chaos.
As she travels the state of Michigan photographing weddings, she struggles to keep her business afloat and the wall around her heart intact. But along the way, she learns more about loyalty and love than she ever imagined.
250 pages, ebook
First published May 19, 2015
407 people are currently reading
1518 people want to read
About the author
Krista Noorman
20 books164 followersKrista Noorman is the author of sweet romance, contemporary Christian romance, and young adult novels. She's a small-town Michigan girl, who is constantly inspired by books and movies, enjoys beautiful Instagram feeds, and loves a good peppermint mocha.
After college at Cornerstone University, four years as a military wife, and starting a family, she turned to her love of photography and spent nearly a decade running her own wedding photography business. For most of her life, she scribbled away in journals while documenting her everyday life, but it wasn't until she took part in National Novel Writing Month, that she found her true calling and turned her pen to fiction. She's been writing about falling in love ever since.
After college at Cornerstone University, four years as a military wife, and starting a family, she turned to her love of photography and spent nearly a decade running her own wedding photography business. For most of her life, she scribbled away in journals while documenting her everyday life, but it wasn't until she took part in National Novel Writing Month, that she found her true calling and turned her pen to fiction. She's been writing about falling in love ever since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 15, 2015
I am such a huge sucker for Hallmark Romance Movies and most weekends, you will find me watching the latest one just before my day comes to an end. Partly because I believe in happily ever after and love at first sight. Such is the case in my own life, and I've often said my fairytale came true when I met my husband. That is why I love a great romance novel. Guess what I found another amazingly talented author who knows just how to write a great romance too, Krista Noorman. In her latest novel, Goodbye, Magnolia, she takes readers into a college life between Maggie James and Simon Walker where they met at a Christian college in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in a photography class of all places. It is where she was given the nickname Canon by Simon, and they would have made quite the pair except that Simon was more of what most girls would have called a player. With good lucks, a knockout smile and more charm than a girls bracelet, Simon had more than enough girls interested in him throughout college, and it was enough to keep Maggie far away from the likes of one like Simon.
Years later, as she is beginning her own wedding photography business in Hastings, she runs into Simon once again. It seems that his Uncle Pete, wants to give it a go at the photography business but unlike Maggie's photography style of capturing those once in a lifetime moments, Simon's is more your formal sittings. In fact, he is so sure, that they are at opposite sides of the wedding photography spectrum, he invites Maggie to help co-promote one another's business based on what each of their clients wants. It will garner them more publicity than if they go it alone, but Maggie believes she's wise to Simon's ways to put her out of business. That fact is even more solidified when her two friends, agree to hire Simon as their photographer as well as Maggie to get the best of both photography worlds.
Maggie is so sure of everything she believes about just who Simon is, that she purposely goes out of her way to make sure they don't work together any more than they need to, but lately it seems like every photo shoot she has scheduled, Simon is right there with her. Coincidence or merely healthy competition? All Maggie knows is based on her past love life and heart break, she can NEVER trust another man especially one like Simon to ever get involved in her life. Will Maggie be resolved to always be the photographer at someone else's wedding or is there hope for love in her future where she doesn't expect it? Time will tell!
I received Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman compliments of the author herself for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and aside from the free copy of the book, the opinions contained here are strictly my own honest and personal ones. This definitely needs to be picked up by Hallmark Movie Channel because it has all the right elements to make a successful movie. There are those moments of comedy when things don't exactly go off as planned, especially when it comes to capturing the perfect moment on film, to those tender heart felt moments where you are hoping against hope that they two will finally fall head over heels in love, and I applaud Krista's efforts to making this well worth the wait. Along the way, you meet some amazing characters such as Sarah, Maggie's assistant, DeDe, the wedding planner with all the right contacts, and even a guest appearance from Michael Bublè! Well worth every single one of the 5 out of 5 stars and I hope, we might see a sequel out of Krista before too long!
Years later, as she is beginning her own wedding photography business in Hastings, she runs into Simon once again. It seems that his Uncle Pete, wants to give it a go at the photography business but unlike Maggie's photography style of capturing those once in a lifetime moments, Simon's is more your formal sittings. In fact, he is so sure, that they are at opposite sides of the wedding photography spectrum, he invites Maggie to help co-promote one another's business based on what each of their clients wants. It will garner them more publicity than if they go it alone, but Maggie believes she's wise to Simon's ways to put her out of business. That fact is even more solidified when her two friends, agree to hire Simon as their photographer as well as Maggie to get the best of both photography worlds.
Maggie is so sure of everything she believes about just who Simon is, that she purposely goes out of her way to make sure they don't work together any more than they need to, but lately it seems like every photo shoot she has scheduled, Simon is right there with her. Coincidence or merely healthy competition? All Maggie knows is based on her past love life and heart break, she can NEVER trust another man especially one like Simon to ever get involved in her life. Will Maggie be resolved to always be the photographer at someone else's wedding or is there hope for love in her future where she doesn't expect it? Time will tell!
I received Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman compliments of the author herself for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and aside from the free copy of the book, the opinions contained here are strictly my own honest and personal ones. This definitely needs to be picked up by Hallmark Movie Channel because it has all the right elements to make a successful movie. There are those moments of comedy when things don't exactly go off as planned, especially when it comes to capturing the perfect moment on film, to those tender heart felt moments where you are hoping against hope that they two will finally fall head over heels in love, and I applaud Krista's efforts to making this well worth the wait. Along the way, you meet some amazing characters such as Sarah, Maggie's assistant, DeDe, the wedding planner with all the right contacts, and even a guest appearance from Michael Bublè! Well worth every single one of the 5 out of 5 stars and I hope, we might see a sequel out of Krista before too long!
March 10, 2016
I have mixed feelings about this one. The beginning had a choppy timeline, and I didn't feel like I had the chance to get to know or connect with Maggie's character until later in the book. (On a side note, the chapter titles identifying what would happen in that chapter with specific dates were distracting and disturbed the pacing for me.) As a photographer I loved the descriptions of her college photo class experiences- it made me remember my own. In Maggie's first encounters with Simon, she comes across as a heartless shrew. I understand not liking someone, but she was downright rude with no provocation. Later I realized it was a defense mechanism for Simon's charm, but it not only made me initially dislike Maggie, I also wondered what on earth he saw in her. As time passes Maggie's redeeming qualities become apparent, but she continues to be unaccountably rude to Simon. I enjoyed the last half of the book when she finally becomes civil and her vulnerabilities are revealed. The descriptions of wedding photography and its business are spot on; I could really sense the joy she received while photographing, but also the exhaustion that comes at the end of a long day on your feet and the endless hours in front of the computer editing photos later. Simon is a charming suitor for Maggie, but miscommunication, pride, and mixed signals on his part and lack of trust, thinking the worst of him, and jumping to conclusions on Maggie's part prevent them from establishing a true friendship despite the attraction that is building. Their thoughts and choices are sadly realistic, making life more complicated than necessary. The romantic moments together are amazing, but quickly followed by regret and one of them backpedaling (until the happy ending, of course!). Turning to God and renewing faith help them both find peace and balance, preparing them for a relationship with trust and hope for the future.
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
August 28, 2015
I enjoyed this story so much! I found the set up of the book to be an extremely unique and interesting way to take the reader through Maggie’s journey. The chapters form a timeline that runs throughout the book with important dates marking the sections of the story. I just loved that! Not only could I really understand how much time had passed between events, but it was very clear what particular activity was going on.
The whole story is told from Maggie’s perspective. The reader actually never hears Simon Walker’s thoughts and sometimes I am not happy when that is the way a book is written. But, that was not the case here. It really worked well for this story. It made me question Simon and his motives, as well as making me less sure about what to expect as the story progressed. It was refreshing.
These two characters have quite a few faults. What may frustrate some readers actually intrigued me. I wondered what Simon truly felt for Maggie and if he had changed any since his college days. I also questioned whether Maggie truly ever saw the real Simon or if she had a version of him she believed to be true and would not let him prove otherwise. I also loved all of the photography details and felt as if I was a part of the wedding shoots. These were great details that made the story come to life.
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end and didn’t want to set the book down! It was a fun and unique romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The whole story is told from Maggie’s perspective. The reader actually never hears Simon Walker’s thoughts and sometimes I am not happy when that is the way a book is written. But, that was not the case here. It really worked well for this story. It made me question Simon and his motives, as well as making me less sure about what to expect as the story progressed. It was refreshing.
These two characters have quite a few faults. What may frustrate some readers actually intrigued me. I wondered what Simon truly felt for Maggie and if he had changed any since his college days. I also questioned whether Maggie truly ever saw the real Simon or if she had a version of him she believed to be true and would not let him prove otherwise. I also loved all of the photography details and felt as if I was a part of the wedding shoots. These were great details that made the story come to life.
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end and didn’t want to set the book down! It was a fun and unique romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 19, 2015
I love reading new authors and was so excited to read this novel by Krista Noorman. I love the cover and the entire storyline sounded like a pretty good setting for a love story. The book spans a few years so I actually liked that concept within the story because the relationship doesn't just happen in an instant. So many romance stories make everything seem so easy and fast but this book makes it realistic. I liked the characters and the professional photographer setting/idea. This book takes you into the life of Maggie and what she sees behind the camera. The flow of the book is good with the storyline, while the dialogue was okay, sometimes I thought the words were forced and awkward. The title of each chapter starts with the date-which is fine if you are spanning more than six months. As a reader, I didn't need the week by week timeline and date. That is just my opinion and it certainty didn't take away from the storyline it's just a pet peeve of mine as a reader.
That all being said this is a fun book that is a light clean romance and I highly recommend!
Krista's writing reminds me a bit of Janice Thompson and Denise Hunter.
Four stars.
"Thanks to the author for offering me a free copy in exchange for an honest review."
That all being said this is a fun book that is a light clean romance and I highly recommend!
Krista's writing reminds me a bit of Janice Thompson and Denise Hunter.
Four stars.
"Thanks to the author for offering me a free copy in exchange for an honest review."
May 24, 2015
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. From the first page, I was hooked! I couldn't put it down! A sweet, light Christian novel with lovable, realistic characters. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves romance with a good story behind it.
July 23, 2017
Definitely a page turner.
Couldn't put this one down. If you have ever wondered about how God works things for your good, read this. He knows the plan He has for us; we just have to learn to trust Him.
Couldn't put this one down. If you have ever wondered about how God works things for your good, read this. He knows the plan He has for us; we just have to learn to trust Him.
May 17, 2015
Thank you to the author, Krista Noorman, for gifting me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review! It's been so much fun to be a part of the launch team for such a wonderful book!
It’s been such a long time since I’ve read this kind of book. I did read a series once all about weddings and I remember loving reading about the whole process and the wonder and just prettiness involved. This book reminded me of that feeling. Don’t be fooled though. This isn’t all fun and games and there are some darker emotions that come into play although it’s mostly a… I’d say a Snicker’s Bar kind of book. You have to break through that creamy chocolate coating (the main character’s past) and find the caramel filling. There are some nuts in there as there is with any life but the caramel quickly eases over that taste. I’m sorry, this isn’t a food blog… I’ll get back on topic!
So. I think what I liked best about this book is it’s utter reality. Even though a lot of books are labeled ‘realistic fiction’ a lot of them aren’t actually realistic and are dramatized up and don’t take into account every day things. Say, finances. This book was true to Maggie’s life and her struggles.
The ending is so beautiful! Everything wrapped up without really wrapping up if you know what I mean. Like it left enough question for you to reach out into the future and imagine what happens. It is, after all, based on real life and the world keeps on spinning after the end of a story.
I really liked Maggie and Simon’s relationship. It just felt connected to reality and a lot of the time it was hilarious to read their dialogue (along with Maggie’s best friend Sarah of course!). Speaking of Maggie’s best friend… she was seriously one of my favorite characters. In one of the scenes they’re tweeting updates to each other and it’s absolutely hilarious!
I loved the plot as well. It’s brilliantly executed and kept me turning pages well into the night! I just got so hooked on Maggie and Simon’s relationship and how everything would work out with their competing photography business’s.
The Final Verdict:
From head to toe, Goodbye, Magnolia, is a true gem in my book. I was hooked from the first page and the characters and plot were grounded to reality. The ending is beautiful and left a warm, fuzzy feeling behind so I could dream of rainbows and puppys! After reading a bunch of rather dark books, this is exactly what I needed!
5 stars
It’s been such a long time since I’ve read this kind of book. I did read a series once all about weddings and I remember loving reading about the whole process and the wonder and just prettiness involved. This book reminded me of that feeling. Don’t be fooled though. This isn’t all fun and games and there are some darker emotions that come into play although it’s mostly a… I’d say a Snicker’s Bar kind of book. You have to break through that creamy chocolate coating (the main character’s past) and find the caramel filling. There are some nuts in there as there is with any life but the caramel quickly eases over that taste. I’m sorry, this isn’t a food blog… I’ll get back on topic!
So. I think what I liked best about this book is it’s utter reality. Even though a lot of books are labeled ‘realistic fiction’ a lot of them aren’t actually realistic and are dramatized up and don’t take into account every day things. Say, finances. This book was true to Maggie’s life and her struggles.
The ending is so beautiful! Everything wrapped up without really wrapping up if you know what I mean. Like it left enough question for you to reach out into the future and imagine what happens. It is, after all, based on real life and the world keeps on spinning after the end of a story.
I really liked Maggie and Simon’s relationship. It just felt connected to reality and a lot of the time it was hilarious to read their dialogue (along with Maggie’s best friend Sarah of course!). Speaking of Maggie’s best friend… she was seriously one of my favorite characters. In one of the scenes they’re tweeting updates to each other and it’s absolutely hilarious!
I loved the plot as well. It’s brilliantly executed and kept me turning pages well into the night! I just got so hooked on Maggie and Simon’s relationship and how everything would work out with their competing photography business’s.
The Final Verdict:
From head to toe, Goodbye, Magnolia, is a true gem in my book. I was hooked from the first page and the characters and plot were grounded to reality. The ending is beautiful and left a warm, fuzzy feeling behind so I could dream of rainbows and puppys! After reading a bunch of rather dark books, this is exactly what I needed!
5 stars
November 7, 2017
This was probably more like a 3.5 star read for me. The author's writing style was good, but I struggled to like these characters, and for the first quarter or so of the book, I wasn't even sure I was SUPPOSED to like Simon (perhaps I should have read the book description...)
The book is written wholly from Maggie's point of view, so the reader tends to see Simon exactly as she does, and I have to say, I felt her poor opinion of him seemed justified. However I didn't like the way Maggie acted towards Simon, either, so I started to lose interest in the story. But I kept reading anyway.
In the end, I became invested enough in the characters to see them through to the end, but the constant about-faces in Maggie and Simon's relationship annoyed me, and Maggie's attitude towards Simon grated. When we later discover that there were convenient explanations for some of Maggie's misunderstandings, Simon suddenly seemed like this guy who was almost too good to be true. And yet he still behaved like a bit of a cad at times. It just didn't ring true for me.
The book is written wholly from Maggie's point of view, so the reader tends to see Simon exactly as she does, and I have to say, I felt her poor opinion of him seemed justified. However I didn't like the way Maggie acted towards Simon, either, so I started to lose interest in the story. But I kept reading anyway.
In the end, I became invested enough in the characters to see them through to the end, but the constant about-faces in Maggie and Simon's relationship annoyed me, and Maggie's attitude towards Simon grated. When we later discover that there were convenient explanations for some of Maggie's misunderstandings, Simon suddenly seemed like this guy who was almost too good to be true. And yet he still behaved like a bit of a cad at times. It just didn't ring true for me.
May 25, 2015
This was a fun, quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters are interesting with wonderful personalities, and their personalities grow even more likable by the end of the book.
What I liked: I enjoyed reading the cute expressions and creative ideas Ms. Noorman included in this book. For example, in the local eating place, there was a wall of mugs with regular customer’s names on them. What a cute idea! Her choice of words and phrases were fresh and original. I also enjoyed the plot. It was fun to see the story unfold.
What I didn’t like: One particular kissing scene made me a little uncomfortable. I would like to see the passionate behavior toned down a bit when included in a Christian book. However, this dislike is totally because of personal preferences.
Over all I give this story 5 stars. It was fun to read and kept me turning pages. I would recommend this book to anyone loving a good love story. I finished it in two days.
What I liked: I enjoyed reading the cute expressions and creative ideas Ms. Noorman included in this book. For example, in the local eating place, there was a wall of mugs with regular customer’s names on them. What a cute idea! Her choice of words and phrases were fresh and original. I also enjoyed the plot. It was fun to see the story unfold.
What I didn’t like: One particular kissing scene made me a little uncomfortable. I would like to see the passionate behavior toned down a bit when included in a Christian book. However, this dislike is totally because of personal preferences.
Over all I give this story 5 stars. It was fun to read and kept me turning pages. I would recommend this book to anyone loving a good love story. I finished it in two days.
July 24, 2015
Ready for a modern working woman romance? You'll enjoy Goodbye, Magnolia. Up and coming novelist Krista Noorman delights with the story of Maggie, a photographer who has let her broken heart close her off to love, despite the fact that she's surrounded by it as she takes wedding pictures.
I really enjoyed the progression from enemies to competitors to colleagues to friends to more than friends that developed between Maggie and Simon. I would have loved to have a little more of Simon's thoughts or perspective, but the author still manages to convey his integrity and thoughtfulness.
Goodbye, Magnolia is a sweet story. When the book arrived, my 15 year old daughter made off with it and declared it a good book when she returned it 2 days later. When I got a turn to read it, I had to agree. If you're looking for wholesome with just the right amount of romantic tension, and a great best friends sideline, you'll enjoy this book.
I really enjoyed the progression from enemies to competitors to colleagues to friends to more than friends that developed between Maggie and Simon. I would have loved to have a little more of Simon's thoughts or perspective, but the author still manages to convey his integrity and thoughtfulness.
Goodbye, Magnolia is a sweet story. When the book arrived, my 15 year old daughter made off with it and declared it a good book when she returned it 2 days later. When I got a turn to read it, I had to agree. If you're looking for wholesome with just the right amount of romantic tension, and a great best friends sideline, you'll enjoy this book.
February 2, 2016
When an old college rival starts a competing business down the street, Maggie is afraid of losing everything. If she can get over past hurts, she must might find the love of her life.
The story begins when the two main characters are in college. The main portion of the story reads like part YA novel and part chick lit with lots of girl talk among Maggie's friends and angsty feelings for her rival. I enjoyed the photography theme since it's a hobby of mine. There was a few things with the secondary characters that felt left open, perhaps from a previous book or for an opening in another book. The relationships were realistic and fit with the plot lines. The story has a faith element that is woven into the story, but doesn't come across as preachy. The story was wrapped up at the end with a romantic ending that will appeal to romance readers, especially those who enjoy Christian romance.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
The story begins when the two main characters are in college. The main portion of the story reads like part YA novel and part chick lit with lots of girl talk among Maggie's friends and angsty feelings for her rival. I enjoyed the photography theme since it's a hobby of mine. There was a few things with the secondary characters that felt left open, perhaps from a previous book or for an opening in another book. The relationships were realistic and fit with the plot lines. The story has a faith element that is woven into the story, but doesn't come across as preachy. The story was wrapped up at the end with a romantic ending that will appeal to romance readers, especially those who enjoy Christian romance.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2015
What a great book! This story was told in a completely different style than I am used to reading, but I found myself really liking the style. These characters are so complex, yet so easy to get to know. I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into Maggie's life and watching her grow in her relationships. Loved how it all turned out in the end.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest reviews*
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest reviews*
March 19, 2018
True to life
Why are strong attractions so hard to understand? We, as women, tend to shy away from strong attractions when we've been hurt once! Maggie was the same as most women, myself included. Maggie longed for what her parents had, a loving commitment to each other. But a past bad encounter left her totally unprepared to open her heart to love. An engaging story with plenty of suspense to keep you intersted .
Why are strong attractions so hard to understand? We, as women, tend to shy away from strong attractions when we've been hurt once! Maggie was the same as most women, myself included. Maggie longed for what her parents had, a loving commitment to each other. But a past bad encounter left her totally unprepared to open her heart to love. An engaging story with plenty of suspense to keep you intersted .
March 17, 2018
Enjoyable Read!
A nice read about the relationship between two photographers who met in school. They had to work out some misconceptions about each other, but overall it was a warm, entertaining read!
A nice read about the relationship between two photographers who met in school. They had to work out some misconceptions about each other, but overall it was a warm, entertaining read!
June 30, 2017
3.5 stars!
March 16, 2018
I loved this book
Maggie is a wedding photographer who doesn’t need another wedding photographer just a few blocks away in her small Michigan town. Everywhere she turns Simon is there getting under her skin. Will they be able to make peace? Rated G
Maggie is a wedding photographer who doesn’t need another wedding photographer just a few blocks away in her small Michigan town. Everywhere she turns Simon is there getting under her skin. Will they be able to make peace? Rated G
March 17, 2018
Beautiful story!
Really enjoyed this book...the characters were well written and had me rooting for them. Looking forward to reading the sequel!
Really enjoyed this book...the characters were well written and had me rooting for them. Looking forward to reading the sequel!
June 3, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
March 3, 2017
Enjoyable! The synopsis caught my attention and being set in Michigan was a plus for me, since I'm from Michigan - I think it's fun to read about familiar places. The characters were likeable, easy to read writing style. I was routing for Maggie to give love a chance!
July 6, 2018
Loved this book set in my hometown!
May 14, 2015
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads. I don't have a BFF but I have to say reading this book felt like having one. The only thing I did not like was having to close the book because it was a busy work time of the year for me when I started reading it. I couldn't wait to get back to reading it.
I found myself imagining the characters in the book being played by actors. I saw Rachel McAdams as Maggie walking with her camera and even though Owen Wilson is older than Simon's character that's who I pictured every time I was reading about Simon. Channing Tatum filled in as Maggie's brother Tom and Rachel Bilson as Maggie's assistant.Then I thought how fitting it would be to have Ryan Gosling as Ben. Russell Crowe fit the role as Maggie's dad for me and Jullianne Moore as her mother. I saw Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon as Vi and Dave. And of course Richard Gere was Uncle Pete.Having brother and sister Maggie & Jake Gyllenhaal pop right in as Cindy and Bill ( brother & sister ) from the coffee shop was a fun thought. Blake Lively became Simon's sexy assistant and I have no clue why I kept thinking Kristen Bell every time Michelle arrived in the book. Jennifer Aniston became DeDe and I saw Emma Stone right at the end as Leslie, Sarah's bridesmaid. Of course there were others in the book but these are the main players that came to life for me.
I absolutely love how the beginning and end of the story come together; I also love everything in between. I want to share this book with people I know but am afraid I won't get it back. I feel like I have secrets to share and if I talk about them it will ruin the experience you will have from learning the secrets yourself.
I loved reading as a child and got away from it in junior high. I found Goodreads in January and decided to start reading again. I am so thankful I did because after having read Goodbye, Magnolia I remember why I loved reading as a child. I missed my BFF
I found myself imagining the characters in the book being played by actors. I saw Rachel McAdams as Maggie walking with her camera and even though Owen Wilson is older than Simon's character that's who I pictured every time I was reading about Simon. Channing Tatum filled in as Maggie's brother Tom and Rachel Bilson as Maggie's assistant.Then I thought how fitting it would be to have Ryan Gosling as Ben. Russell Crowe fit the role as Maggie's dad for me and Jullianne Moore as her mother. I saw Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon as Vi and Dave. And of course Richard Gere was Uncle Pete.Having brother and sister Maggie & Jake Gyllenhaal pop right in as Cindy and Bill ( brother & sister ) from the coffee shop was a fun thought. Blake Lively became Simon's sexy assistant and I have no clue why I kept thinking Kristen Bell every time Michelle arrived in the book. Jennifer Aniston became DeDe and I saw Emma Stone right at the end as Leslie, Sarah's bridesmaid. Of course there were others in the book but these are the main players that came to life for me.
I absolutely love how the beginning and end of the story come together; I also love everything in between. I want to share this book with people I know but am afraid I won't get it back. I feel like I have secrets to share and if I talk about them it will ruin the experience you will have from learning the secrets yourself.
I loved reading as a child and got away from it in junior high. I found Goodreads in January and decided to start reading again. I am so thankful I did because after having read Goodbye, Magnolia I remember why I loved reading as a child. I missed my BFF
May 18, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
First off, this is Krista Noorman's second book and the first I've read.
It's a sweet little book. I really liked how the story and the characters were developed. Each chapter is set at a precise date. There are also a lot of reference to cultural elements which really makes this story realistic. It's like I was back in 2009!
The characters were also fun since I could easily relate to them. Maggie went through some really rough times in her life and has a hard time letting go. I could picture myself in her situation wondering what would I do? How would I react?
Even if I really enjoyed the book, there are two things that I found were a little deceiving.
First, the fact that the book took place on a long period of time made me fell like I had missed on some elements from the characters evolution. It wasn't that bad and most of the time what had happen between two dates was summarized, but I still wished I could have read about it more.
Second, I thought Maggie was sometime a little hard on Simon. She jumped to conclusions really fast and when he wanted to talk about it, she wouldn't let him tell his side of the story. Also Simon was always walking away without trying to talk about it. That bothered me a little because it seemed they had a big problem on the communication level.
Although, there were two aspects of the book that bothered me a little, I still believe it was a great book. I really like the sweet little story and the communication seemed to be reestablished toward the end of the book. I would obviously recommend this book!
First off, this is Krista Noorman's second book and the first I've read.
It's a sweet little book. I really liked how the story and the characters were developed. Each chapter is set at a precise date. There are also a lot of reference to cultural elements which really makes this story realistic. It's like I was back in 2009!
The characters were also fun since I could easily relate to them. Maggie went through some really rough times in her life and has a hard time letting go. I could picture myself in her situation wondering what would I do? How would I react?
Even if I really enjoyed the book, there are two things that I found were a little deceiving.
First, the fact that the book took place on a long period of time made me fell like I had missed on some elements from the characters evolution. It wasn't that bad and most of the time what had happen between two dates was summarized, but I still wished I could have read about it more.
Second, I thought Maggie was sometime a little hard on Simon. She jumped to conclusions really fast and when he wanted to talk about it, she wouldn't let him tell his side of the story. Also Simon was always walking away without trying to talk about it. That bothered me a little because it seemed they had a big problem on the communication level.
Although, there were two aspects of the book that bothered me a little, I still believe it was a great book. I really like the sweet little story and the communication seemed to be reestablished toward the end of the book. I would obviously recommend this book!
August 28, 2015
Goodbye, Magnolia is a sweet, highly romantic story. It's one of those reads that, though it's imperfect, you find yourself completely drawn into. I started reading before bed, and I didn't put the book down until I was finished ... and I paid for it the next day!
Maggie and Simon are wildly imperfect people. Maggie has major trust issues following a bad breakup, and Simon is a little too charming and free with his affections. These issues cause major obstacles on their road to happiness, especially regarding the pivotal misunderstanding that serves to keep them apart until the end of the novel. I will admit I had some major reservations regarding Simon—he wasn't a bad guy, but it also didn't seem wise for Maggie to begin a relationship with him. By the end, though, I'd come around!
Even though I wasn't sure of Simon's character for a while, I definitely enjoyed the romantic scenes. Maggie and Simon's chemistry practically leaped off the page, and I loved the back-and-forth dance they did around a relationship. I also enjoyed the supporting characters—especially Maggie's best friend and assistant Sarah.
I did think the beginning was a bit choppy, and I noticed a couple of continuity problems, but overall, I greatly enjoyed Goodbye, Magnolia, and I'll definitely be watching for what Krista Noorman comes out with next!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Maggie and Simon are wildly imperfect people. Maggie has major trust issues following a bad breakup, and Simon is a little too charming and free with his affections. These issues cause major obstacles on their road to happiness, especially regarding the pivotal misunderstanding that serves to keep them apart until the end of the novel. I will admit I had some major reservations regarding Simon—he wasn't a bad guy, but it also didn't seem wise for Maggie to begin a relationship with him. By the end, though, I'd come around!
Even though I wasn't sure of Simon's character for a while, I definitely enjoyed the romantic scenes. Maggie and Simon's chemistry practically leaped off the page, and I loved the back-and-forth dance they did around a relationship. I also enjoyed the supporting characters—especially Maggie's best friend and assistant Sarah.
I did think the beginning was a bit choppy, and I noticed a couple of continuity problems, but overall, I greatly enjoyed Goodbye, Magnolia, and I'll definitely be watching for what Krista Noorman comes out with next!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 16, 2015
First of all... the title is just perfect. Goodbye, Magnolia just works on so many levels. I refuse to tell you why I think that though.
I totally get Maggie. I just immediately felt connected with her. She reminded me of myself in a lot of ways. Really over thinking some things. Not seeing some other things that might be obvious to other people. Getting really focused on one aspect in her life and kind of neglecting other parts. I get her. And so I TOTALLY understood all of her feelings towards Simon. Hating him, liking him, lusting after him, still not being able to give up the reasons for hating him. The development of everything with them from the first page to the last was fabulous to me. It was real. It wasn't a pretty little romance. There was good and bad. Their was heat and there were arguments. Real.
And Simon. Simon is the perfect guy that you love to hate but REALLY want him to be the good guy. You want him to be THE guy. For every bit of confusing guy... he was totally the open book. The back and forth was the frustration that I feel happen in real relationships. Loved it.
I am so excited to see the second book in the Cornerstone series, Until Then , is due out in 2016. Can't wait to see where Krista Noorman takes the series.
I totally get Maggie. I just immediately felt connected with her. She reminded me of myself in a lot of ways. Really over thinking some things. Not seeing some other things that might be obvious to other people. Getting really focused on one aspect in her life and kind of neglecting other parts. I get her. And so I TOTALLY understood all of her feelings towards Simon. Hating him, liking him, lusting after him, still not being able to give up the reasons for hating him. The development of everything with them from the first page to the last was fabulous to me. It was real. It wasn't a pretty little romance. There was good and bad. Their was heat and there were arguments. Real.
And Simon. Simon is the perfect guy that you love to hate but REALLY want him to be the good guy. You want him to be THE guy. For every bit of confusing guy... he was totally the open book. The back and forth was the frustration that I feel happen in real relationships. Loved it.
I am so excited to see the second book in the Cornerstone series, Until Then , is due out in 2016. Can't wait to see where Krista Noorman takes the series.
February 26, 2016
I received this book free from a goodreads giveaway. I absoultly loved this book. This author has a talent with her writing skills. From the moment I began reading I did not want to put the book down. I feel in love with the main character MaggiE and felt like I was living her life with her. I enjoyed seeing the relationship blossom between Maggie and Simon. I laughed out loud, cried, and became angry along with Maggie throughout the story. Maggie has many walls built up due to past love Ben. She carries her pain with hef still even though it has been 5 years. Simon has come and gone from her life always liking her but Maggie has judgements about him that she can't over look. Friends and family try to tell her she has got it wrong about him but she will not listen. She never gives him the benifit of the doubt and almost loses him. But alas all works out as it should she discovers he is actually a genuinely a great and has sacrificed more than she could ever have thought for her. The ending is a truely happy one which is great!
May 18, 2015
I loved reading Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman. The story was like a wedding cake - sweet, beautiful, and with many layers. It was fun to see the relationship and attraction between Maggie and Simon grow, and I especially liked the occasional teasing between these two. Also, I can't help mentioning beautiful descriptions of weddings and destinations that serve as a wonderful backdrop to the story development.
Maggie is a wedding photographer who is amazing at capturing other couples' happy moments. But her own happily-ever-after hasn't happened yet as she is nursing a broken heart, and it's difficult for her to open it for love again...
Goodbye, Mangolia is one of those feel-good books that stay with you long after you finish the last page. Krista Noorman writes great Christian stories, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
Maggie is a wedding photographer who is amazing at capturing other couples' happy moments. But her own happily-ever-after hasn't happened yet as she is nursing a broken heart, and it's difficult for her to open it for love again...
Goodbye, Mangolia is one of those feel-good books that stay with you long after you finish the last page. Krista Noorman writes great Christian stories, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
August 26, 2015
Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman was a great read. Once I learned that one of the main characters is named Margaret I love it even more. I could see a lot of myself in Maggie and that helped me connect more with the story and the book. I really enjoyed this authors style of writing and how she went about telling the story. Some authors have either too much detail or not enough but this author had just the right amount of detail to keep me interested but not so much that I got bogged down in details and didn’t want to finish the book. I would be lying if I wasn’t hoping that Maggie and Simon would end up together in the end. From the first chapter they seemed so perfect for each other. If you love romance novels than I would for sure have recommend this one to you.
FTC:I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
FTC:I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2015
Goodbye, Magnolia is a heartwarming story that will leave a smile on your face! The story line is refreshing, engaging, and filled with endearing characters. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between Maggie and Simon; their banter was quite entertaining! Goodbye, Magnolia is light-hearted story, but it also shares a deeper inspirational message. I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful tale and look forward to reading more from Krista Noorman!
I received a complimentary copy of Goodbye, Magnolia from the author in exchange for an unbiased review. I appreciate the opportunity to read this story and share my thoughts.
I received a complimentary copy of Goodbye, Magnolia from the author in exchange for an unbiased review. I appreciate the opportunity to read this story and share my thoughts.
May 19, 2015
Goodbye, Magnolia was such a fun book to read! I loved the flow and how the characters came together. I loved the sweet relationship between Maggie and Sarah and I felt like they were MY friends. I found the plot engaging and it was hard for me to put the book down! I enjoy reading books that take place in locations I have visited and since I have been to several of this books locations, it really made the book come alive. I am so glad that I was given a free copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2015
I was a First Reads winner of Goodbye Magnolia. I liked it. I had not read any of Krista Noorman's novels prior to this. The characters were easy to identify with. It was a quick, enjoyable read. It was a "feel good" novel. The story reminded me that first impressions, even second and third ones, aren't always correct. We need to keep an open mind an be willing to give someone a second chance. Sometimes that person might be ourselves.
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