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Lost Love #1
Even Now
Sometimes hope for the future is found in the ashes of yesterday.
Shane Galantera man ready to put down roots after years of searching. But is he making the right choice? Or is there a woman somewhere who even now remembers as does he those long-ago days . . . and a love that hasn't faded with time?
Lauren Gibbs a successful international war correspondent who gave up on happily-ever-after years ago when it was ripped away from her. Since then, shes never looked back. So how come she cant put to rest the one question that haunts her: Why is life so empty?
Emily Anderson a college freshman raised by her grandparents, and about to take her first internship as a journalist. But before she can move ahead, she discovers a love story whose tragic ending came with her birth. As a result, she is drawn to look back and search out the mother shes never met.
A young woman seeking answers to her hearts deep questions. A man and woman separated by lies and long years. . . yet who have never forgotten each other. With hallmark tenderness and power, Karen Kingsbury weaves a tapestry of lives, losses, love, and faith and the miracle of resurrection.
Shane Galantera man ready to put down roots after years of searching. But is he making the right choice? Or is there a woman somewhere who even now remembers as does he those long-ago days . . . and a love that hasn't faded with time?
Lauren Gibbs a successful international war correspondent who gave up on happily-ever-after years ago when it was ripped away from her. Since then, shes never looked back. So how come she cant put to rest the one question that haunts her: Why is life so empty?
Emily Anderson a college freshman raised by her grandparents, and about to take her first internship as a journalist. But before she can move ahead, she discovers a love story whose tragic ending came with her birth. As a result, she is drawn to look back and search out the mother shes never met.
A young woman seeking answers to her hearts deep questions. A man and woman separated by lies and long years. . . yet who have never forgotten each other. With hallmark tenderness and power, Karen Kingsbury weaves a tapestry of lives, losses, love, and faith and the miracle of resurrection.
333 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
1149 people are currently reading
27845 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kingsbury
208 books12k followersKaren Kingsbury, #1 New York Times bestselling novelist, is America’s favorite inspirational storyteller, with more than twenty-five million copies of her award-winning books in print. Her last dozen titles have topped bestseller lists and many of her novels are under development with Hallmark Films and as major motion pictures. Her Baxter Family books are being developed into a TV series slated for major network viewing sometime in the next year. Karen is also an adjunct professor of writing at Liberty University. In 2001 she and her husband, Don, adopted three boys from Haiti, doubling their family in a matter of months. Today the couple has joined the ranks of empty nesters, living in Tennessee near five of their adult children.
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/K...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 803 reviews
February 20, 2009
A+; Emotions ranging from heartbreaking to triumphant in this lovely novel. If you've ever doubted the power of one moment, you won't after reading this. Ms. Kingsbury is without question the best in Christian fiction, delivering a powerful message that does not come across as preachy or ignore the realities in life. No goody-two-shoes characters cripple her prose. Real people struggle with their faith issues and come out closer to God and each other because of it.
November 28, 2021
“Even Now” by Karen Kingsbury
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Once again I listened to the audiobook of “Even Now” spoken by an excellent narrator. A wonderful love story starting from teenagers to adulthood. All the trials, tribulations and the growing bonding of a committed relationship.
I am now listening to the audiobook “Ever After” by Karen Kingsbury the second book following “Ever After”.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Once again I listened to the audiobook of “Even Now” spoken by an excellent narrator. A wonderful love story starting from teenagers to adulthood. All the trials, tribulations and the growing bonding of a committed relationship.
I am now listening to the audiobook “Ever After” by Karen Kingsbury the second book following “Ever After”.
August 5, 2009
I've been putting off writing my review on this book because I'm not sure what to say. Generally, I don't especially like Christian fiction. This book is an example of why I don't like it. The story felt contrived and forced, like the author tried to imagine everything that could possibly go wrong and made it happen. I just kept feeling frustrated that the characters weren't using common sense to prevent these horrible things from happening. But worse was that I felt like the author was trying to make a political statement that I was neither going to appreciate nor agree with. In the end though, she surprised me and came to a conclusion that was better than I had given her credit for. So I ended up giving it 3 stars because the author showed a broader sense of tolerance than I thought she would. If you like Christian fiction, you will probably like this book because it's pretty much the epitome of Christian fiction. If you're not a Christian fiction fan, I would steer clear of this one...
October 12, 2012
Let me start by saying that had I known this was Christian fiction I may not have picked it up to begin with. I sometimes find the religious writing a little too over-the-top for my liking. I had a couple of issues with this story line:
1.The parents of these two teenagers conspire against them by taking deliberate steps to separate them from each other. One family moves across the country and the other into the suburbs and neither leaves a forwarding address. My issue ... the author implies that had they had God in their lives they would have behaved differently and not been so manipulative and controlling in their children’s' lives. Say what? Being lacking in a strong Christian faith is not synonymous with lacking compassion and empathy!
2.It takes two decades to reunite this couple who have remained deeply in love. Their daughter has grown up without her parents. The events set in motion twenty years ago have caused irreparable damage. My issue … the author wants us to believe that after all that has transpired these seven characters will reunite and fall into each other’s arms full of forgiveness because they now have God in their lives. Really? You would think that there might be at least one of them that is holding onto a bit of anger and perhaps would like to lash out and express their grief about the years that have virtually been stolen from them? Apparently not.
The story had potential to be very good but it just was not realistic to me. The reunion was too easy; the author wrapped it up in a nice little package and stuck a bow on it. Don’t get me wrong, I like happy endings and I am not saying that this couldn’t end happily. I am just saying I don’t think that the forgiveness could have come so easily without a little conflict and venting of anger first.
1.The parents of these two teenagers conspire against them by taking deliberate steps to separate them from each other. One family moves across the country and the other into the suburbs and neither leaves a forwarding address. My issue ... the author implies that had they had God in their lives they would have behaved differently and not been so manipulative and controlling in their children’s' lives. Say what? Being lacking in a strong Christian faith is not synonymous with lacking compassion and empathy!
2.It takes two decades to reunite this couple who have remained deeply in love. Their daughter has grown up without her parents. The events set in motion twenty years ago have caused irreparable damage. My issue … the author wants us to believe that after all that has transpired these seven characters will reunite and fall into each other’s arms full of forgiveness because they now have God in their lives. Really? You would think that there might be at least one of them that is holding onto a bit of anger and perhaps would like to lash out and express their grief about the years that have virtually been stolen from them? Apparently not.
The story had potential to be very good but it just was not realistic to me. The reunion was too easy; the author wrapped it up in a nice little package and stuck a bow on it. Don’t get me wrong, I like happy endings and I am not saying that this couldn’t end happily. I am just saying I don’t think that the forgiveness could have come so easily without a little conflict and venting of anger first.
June 11, 2015
I read this because Kingsbury's books encourage my wife. The theme of God's control of our lives and situations is one I am fully behind, but this now ranks as my least favorite book. Mainly due to disappointment.
When I read self-published work, mistakes are common and expected. However, this is a well-known author with a respected publisher, yet the mistakes in storyline and editing seem to indicate both are interested far more in the profit to be had and than in a quality story and book.
A few examples:
1. I am not an editor and read fast, yet, was distracted by dozens of simple editing mistakes. They are embarrassing to list and would result in a "F" at a high school or college.
2. The storyline is not realistic. The reaction to the loss of a baby, the story of how they remain apart and unable to contact one another, and the actions of the parents to keep them apart begin the list of plot and storyline that simply could not happen.
3. The storyline has conflicting facts. Ages and dates have conflicts. The timing of high school, college and military training makes it impossible for Shane to have served in the Gulf War. At most points in the story Shane is said to be a baseball player, except when it is football. This list could go on, but I'm only growing more disappointed in the lack of professionalism.
I appreciate the Christian teaching about prayer, trusting God, and God's control over events. However, I've never wanted a refund on a book before, but feel disappointed enough in this one to consider asking.
When I read self-published work, mistakes are common and expected. However, this is a well-known author with a respected publisher, yet the mistakes in storyline and editing seem to indicate both are interested far more in the profit to be had and than in a quality story and book.
A few examples:
1. I am not an editor and read fast, yet, was distracted by dozens of simple editing mistakes. They are embarrassing to list and would result in a "F" at a high school or college.
2. The storyline is not realistic. The reaction to the loss of a baby, the story of how they remain apart and unable to contact one another, and the actions of the parents to keep them apart begin the list of plot and storyline that simply could not happen.
3. The storyline has conflicting facts. Ages and dates have conflicts. The timing of high school, college and military training makes it impossible for Shane to have served in the Gulf War. At most points in the story Shane is said to be a baseball player, except when it is football. This list could go on, but I'm only growing more disappointed in the lack of professionalism.
I appreciate the Christian teaching about prayer, trusting God, and God's control over events. However, I've never wanted a refund on a book before, but feel disappointed enough in this one to consider asking.
January 20, 2012
It wasn't outstandingly beautiful prose, or a praise-worthy plot line, but this book made me cry. And for that, I give it 5 stars. There have been around, maybe 6, 7, books in my life that have had me sobbing (it's not easy to get my tears going in books) and this one had me wailing into the book in the middle of the night. Even Now had me smiling and laughing and making some sort of sound in my throat that sounded like sobbing and choking all at once... When Lauren and Shane were finally reunited, I felt like throwing myself to the ground in relief, tears streaming down my cheeks. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a touching book. Once in a while, perhaps because my tears come hard when I read, I appreciate reading a book so beautifully written that it sends my emotions on a rollercoaster. This book is definitely one of those books. If you don't mind shedding a tear or clutching fearfully at your chest for the sake of the characters, this book is definitely for you.
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December 15, 2025preview
umm so i feel like it got a tad cringe at the end but like my mindset when i was starting vs when i finished it were incredibly different so maybe thats js me !
pre-read
so my mom gave this to me and I started it today and HELLO?! it’s actually so good like what the heck🤭🤭
umm so i feel like it got a tad cringe at the end but like my mindset when i was starting vs when i finished it were incredibly different so maybe thats js me !
pre-read
so my mom gave this to me and I started it today and HELLO?! it’s actually so good like what the heck🤭🤭
July 28, 2018
Even now⭐️
Lauren got pregnant but parents being parents wanted her to keep her pure wanted her to get an abortion and forget the boy the impregnated her but she loved him and she would love this baby.
She was told the baby died so she needed to find her boyfriend. The childs father, no one would keep them apart now. They would grow up and start a family again.
But Laurens daughter Emily didnt die it was a mistake but Lauren didnt want to talk to her parents. Her parents were the reason she was miserable. So being good grandparents they took Emily in and made Emily the best life. All the mistakes they made with lauren were lessons and taught them how to be great parents to Emily. But even though emily had everything she still didnt have her parents.
It was beautiful and I loved it!!
Lauren got pregnant but parents being parents wanted her to keep her pure wanted her to get an abortion and forget the boy the impregnated her but she loved him and she would love this baby.
She was told the baby died so she needed to find her boyfriend. The childs father, no one would keep them apart now. They would grow up and start a family again.
But Laurens daughter Emily didnt die it was a mistake but Lauren didnt want to talk to her parents. Her parents were the reason she was miserable. So being good grandparents they took Emily in and made Emily the best life. All the mistakes they made with lauren were lessons and taught them how to be great parents to Emily. But even though emily had everything she still didnt have her parents.
It was beautiful and I loved it!!
April 26, 2024
4.5 stars*
Karen Kingsbury certainly has a way of creating characters that you just can't help caring about. I was hooked on every part of this story. It's a beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, and God's ability to make whole what was broken. I'm starting the second book in the series today and I can't wait to see where it takes this family.
Karen Kingsbury certainly has a way of creating characters that you just can't help caring about. I was hooked on every part of this story. It's a beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, and God's ability to make whole what was broken. I'm starting the second book in the series today and I can't wait to see where it takes this family.
April 15, 2015
What can I say that I haven't already said while I was reading... Horrible editing, spelling mistakes nearly every page wherein a space was moved/added/removed, making the intended words into completely different words... but still real words, albeit ones that didn't make sense in the sentence. Continuity errors. Contrived plot points, characters lacking common sense. I was interested in the basic plot, but it could have been done SO much better. Though she's quite prolific and popular, I haven't read much by this author. This one doesn't give me a good feeling about seeking out any of her other works.
January 8, 2021
This was the first book I have read by this author. I am definitely going to read more!
September 4, 2025
A tearjerker. I skip read this for plot. Shane and Lauren have an 18y old daughter, Emily. Many reunitings, apologies, prayers and much reconciliation !
Setting: Chicago primarily
Angela and Bill Anderson, Sam and Sheila Galanter are parents to Lauren and Shane respectively.
Emily ends up being raised by her Chicago grandparents. The Galanters had moved to LA.
Shane became Navy pilot trainer in Reno. Lauren became a war correspondent for Time magazine.
Sept. 4, 2025
Setting: Chicago primarily
Angela and Bill Anderson, Sam and Sheila Galanter are parents to Lauren and Shane respectively.
Emily ends up being raised by her Chicago grandparents. The Galanters had moved to LA.
Shane became Navy pilot trainer in Reno. Lauren became a war correspondent for Time magazine.
Sept. 4, 2025
July 8, 2024
This was a Christian book that takled some tough stuff like teenage pregnancy. I thought the story was sweet & original. Loved the ending
September 21, 2018
Spoiler Alert!!!!!! The book even now is about a girl (Lauren) and a boy (Shane) their parents separate them after they find out Lauren is pregnant. Lauren thought Emily died 4 weeks after being born all because of a miscommunication with the hospital after she leaves Emily there overnight. Lauren runs away and her parents take care of the baby 18 years later both of Emily's parents find out that Emily is actually alive. Her dad meets her for the first time, and her mom is reunited with Emily. It is an amazing Christian book, and an emotional roller coaster.
The main characters are Lauren, Shane, Emily, and Angela. The protagonist is Emily, she finds her parents and reunite them after 18 years apart, she shows her mother, Lauren, that God is amazing and miracles do happen everyday, and helps Lauren find her connection to God again. The antagonist is Shane’s mother she, tells Lauren to get an abortion when she was pregnant just so her son. Emily’s father will be able to have the job and life they want for Shane. Even though Shane wants to marry Lauren and help her raise the baby. I can't relate to the story, other than the fact that her family has such strong faith and believes in her, like my parents believe in me. I relate to Emily more than the other characters because she is smart, athletic, and has such strong faith. Also, that she trusts that God will show her the right path. I loved the book, it is so inspiring and encourages you that anything can happen. My favorite part of the book was when Lauren finally got to see Emily after 18 years. My least favorite part was when Emily’s grandpa dies of cancer, it makes me sad that someone who raised Emily dies. The author really brought your whole attention into the book and showed to never give up hope and your plan can be different from God's plan, but it always works out in the end. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. If you love romance, christian, and suspenseful books you will love this one.
The main characters are Lauren, Shane, Emily, and Angela. The protagonist is Emily, she finds her parents and reunite them after 18 years apart, she shows her mother, Lauren, that God is amazing and miracles do happen everyday, and helps Lauren find her connection to God again. The antagonist is Shane’s mother she, tells Lauren to get an abortion when she was pregnant just so her son. Emily’s father will be able to have the job and life they want for Shane. Even though Shane wants to marry Lauren and help her raise the baby. I can't relate to the story, other than the fact that her family has such strong faith and believes in her, like my parents believe in me. I relate to Emily more than the other characters because she is smart, athletic, and has such strong faith. Also, that she trusts that God will show her the right path. I loved the book, it is so inspiring and encourages you that anything can happen. My favorite part of the book was when Lauren finally got to see Emily after 18 years. My least favorite part was when Emily’s grandpa dies of cancer, it makes me sad that someone who raised Emily dies. The author really brought your whole attention into the book and showed to never give up hope and your plan can be different from God's plan, but it always works out in the end. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. If you love romance, christian, and suspenseful books you will love this one.
January 23, 2013
It is a good thing that this is not the first Kingsbury book that I have read, because if it had been, I would not have read another and that would have been a loss. The constant emotional pain that the characters in "Even Now" endure (most of it brought on by themselves) for a solid eighteen years and 333 pages left me wrung out and exhausted. Even when the happy ending came, I couldn't feel the joy.
The experiences shared by the seven main characters were told and retold endlessly through each of their different perpectives. I felt like I was being beaten to death with the plot and could have rehearsed it in my sleep. Too much drama, too much anguish, too much unrelenting, heart-wrenching pain and regret for all of us.
The beautiful thing about time is that it heals and softens our losses and sorrows, even if not able to completely erase them. It was unrealistic that the pain of these characters (especially Lauren's) never dulled. The story felt contrived and forced. Too many bad things happened for it to be believable.
That being said, Karen Kingsbury has written some beautiful novels. I have been touched, uplifted and motivated by her books. Just not this one. It is wonderful to read the words of someone who includes the reality of God in her works, and is not afraid to let sacred things remain sacred i.e., she doesn't fill her books with sensuality and lust.
The experiences shared by the seven main characters were told and retold endlessly through each of their different perpectives. I felt like I was being beaten to death with the plot and could have rehearsed it in my sleep. Too much drama, too much anguish, too much unrelenting, heart-wrenching pain and regret for all of us.
The beautiful thing about time is that it heals and softens our losses and sorrows, even if not able to completely erase them. It was unrealistic that the pain of these characters (especially Lauren's) never dulled. The story felt contrived and forced. Too many bad things happened for it to be believable.
That being said, Karen Kingsbury has written some beautiful novels. I have been touched, uplifted and motivated by her books. Just not this one. It is wonderful to read the words of someone who includes the reality of God in her works, and is not afraid to let sacred things remain sacred i.e., she doesn't fill her books with sensuality and lust.
July 16, 2015
Let me be the first to say I LOVE a good cheesy romancey indulgence from time to time. Not always but just on occasion, however this novel was just TOO MUCH CHEESE.
The bones of this story were good, real tear jerker worthy. But I did not find the actually writing and telling of the story to be all that good. If my husband thinks I roll my eyes at him too much he should have seen me whilst reading this! Too cheesy. And dumb. Especially that wonderful moment where Emily realized she had been spelling her dad's name incorrectly. Come on!
And the forshadowing was horrendous! I don't know if it was intended to be discreet... but you knew every single that was going to happen pages and pages before it did. Also thought the religious stuff was too pushy. Meh. I keep branching out to new authors and books and I keep getting disappointed. Where I'd my Chamberlain, Moyes, or Koontz when I need them??
The bones of this story were good, real tear jerker worthy. But I did not find the actually writing and telling of the story to be all that good. If my husband thinks I roll my eyes at him too much he should have seen me whilst reading this! Too cheesy. And dumb. Especially that wonderful moment where Emily realized she had been spelling her dad's name incorrectly. Come on!
And the forshadowing was horrendous! I don't know if it was intended to be discreet... but you knew every single that was going to happen pages and pages before it did. Also thought the religious stuff was too pushy. Meh. I keep branching out to new authors and books and I keep getting disappointed. Where I'd my Chamberlain, Moyes, or Koontz when I need them??
August 2, 2014
I fell in love with this story. The characters were amazing. Lauren and Shane's love for each other was flawless, even as kids. They grew up without each other. And their child little Emily. Found them and tried to get them back together. I love it. Emily was adorable. Her character was awesome. Karen Kingsbury made a great contrast of characters.
Although it was in ways similar to one other book I read called The Chance. But I overly enjoyed both books.
This book was Heartbreaking, sad, heartwarming, happy, loveable. I laughed and cried. Just a complete mix of emotions.
I cant wait to read the sequel to this book.
Although it was in ways similar to one other book I read called The Chance. But I overly enjoyed both books.
This book was Heartbreaking, sad, heartwarming, happy, loveable. I laughed and cried. Just a complete mix of emotions.
I cant wait to read the sequel to this book.
April 7, 2015
Not a huge fan of Christian fiction with a few exceptions. This was one of the most contrived story lines I've ever read. None of the actions made sense - all of the consequences were extreme. The outcome was just too neatly worked out. If you're looking for an easy read where you can just skim pages while people are whining or making dumb mistakes, this is it.
June 19, 2019
Pregnant teen and her boyfriend separated by their parents find each other 18 years later with the help of their daughter.
September 4, 2022
Would never really tell any of you that you must read this book! Felt a little too forced so was a bit of a slow read. But I did love the ending of restoration of relationships all coming together
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December 23, 2021⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
❤️/5
This book was one of the most special, inspirational, moving books that I have ever read. it truly has changed me and changed my perspective. the characters in this book are so special, I feel like I have lived their lives, even as time spans 18 years throughout the book.
but be prepared - the way I cried and sobbed my eyes out, they were sad tears, heartbroken tears, happy tears and relieved tears. My family had to seriously check if I was alright I was so moved!
the characters are also closer to my age at the beginning meaning I felt it deeper.
as a Christian, I felt the Lord deeply throughout those this novel, I felt the Lord was speaking to me through it and it honestly gave me no advice, but an essence about how I might handle these situations if I was in their shoes.
trigger warning - teen pregnancy, death, war etc.
❤️/5
This book was one of the most special, inspirational, moving books that I have ever read. it truly has changed me and changed my perspective. the characters in this book are so special, I feel like I have lived their lives, even as time spans 18 years throughout the book.
but be prepared - the way I cried and sobbed my eyes out, they were sad tears, heartbroken tears, happy tears and relieved tears. My family had to seriously check if I was alright I was so moved!
the characters are also closer to my age at the beginning meaning I felt it deeper.
as a Christian, I felt the Lord deeply throughout those this novel, I felt the Lord was speaking to me through it and it honestly gave me no advice, but an essence about how I might handle these situations if I was in their shoes.
trigger warning - teen pregnancy, death, war etc.
November 22, 2022
I didn’t realize the theme of this story was unwed teen pregnancy. That is not my favorite theme, but I do appreciate that the author kept the intimacies off-page. This wasn’t an easy book at all.
It seemed to me like everyone in this story committed sin upon sin upon sin in the first half. Yet, when certain characters finally turned back to God and sought forgiveness for those sins, the story became richer and more enjoyable. True repentance is absolutely amazing, and I love when that is highlighted in books.
Lauren’s parents were horrible and toxic in the first half of the story. They were very well written and drove me batty for their mindsets against their daughter. I liked that they mellowed and learned to be better people while they raised their grandchild.
This book showcased the contrast between the depravity of sinful behavior and the hope and peace found only in following God’s will for one’s life. The faith journeys in this book were beautiful.
My one complaint about the narrator was that grown-up Emily sounded like a young child. I kept having to remind myself she was college aged. The narrator did a fantastic job at including the proper emotions during the most heartbreaking scenes, which added richness to the audio version.
The second half of this story was superb and brought all the emotion and depth I have come to expect from a Karen Kingsbury novel. I really enjoyed the reunions that took place. They kind of made my heart melt.
Content: teen sex, unwed pregnancy
It seemed to me like everyone in this story committed sin upon sin upon sin in the first half. Yet, when certain characters finally turned back to God and sought forgiveness for those sins, the story became richer and more enjoyable. True repentance is absolutely amazing, and I love when that is highlighted in books.
Lauren’s parents were horrible and toxic in the first half of the story. They were very well written and drove me batty for their mindsets against their daughter. I liked that they mellowed and learned to be better people while they raised their grandchild.
This book showcased the contrast between the depravity of sinful behavior and the hope and peace found only in following God’s will for one’s life. The faith journeys in this book were beautiful.
My one complaint about the narrator was that grown-up Emily sounded like a young child. I kept having to remind myself she was college aged. The narrator did a fantastic job at including the proper emotions during the most heartbreaking scenes, which added richness to the audio version.
The second half of this story was superb and brought all the emotion and depth I have come to expect from a Karen Kingsbury novel. I really enjoyed the reunions that took place. They kind of made my heart melt.
Content: teen sex, unwed pregnancy
November 3, 2024
I really wish there were .5 star options cause this is 4.5 stars. I really shouldn't get so engrossed in the characters but Lauren made me want to stop reading the book. While we know people in our lives like her, she made it a pain to read this one. Emily was the best character and how she never lost faith and allowed God to do things His way and in His timing. Lesson to us all.
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June 16, 2025Read like half … made me want to scream cause of the ✨dramatic irony✨
Yeaaa I put down and kinda forgot about it andddd now I have so many other books I wanna read🥲🥲
So maybe I’ll finish it later:))
Anyways so far it’s really good;)
Yeaaa I put down and kinda forgot about it andddd now I have so many other books I wanna read🥲🥲
So maybe I’ll finish it later:))
Anyways so far it’s really good;)
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May 18, 2019RTC
September 15, 2019
I really do enjoy reading Karen Kingsbury's novels. They are heart warming and uplifting. They are absolutely primarily intended to illustrate the hope and love of God, however, some inaccurate details really irked me and made this story feel unrealistic. When Lauren is in Afghanistan and she sees Emily's email, she responds with her to call a phone number. Emily calls like 5 minutes later from the Central Time zone. It was a small detail that made the event feel forced.
The second thing that irked me was the lack of understanding about Shane's profession. I am in the Navy and I understand Karen is not, but I would have appreciated some basic research on the ranking structure. She describes Shane as a Captain in the Navy but that means he would have been an O-6. A Captain in every other service is an O-3. Based on the timeline of the novel and that Shane is 37, he would have only had about 15 years in the Navy. He would have likely been an O-4 (Lieutenant Commander) or maybe an O-5 (Commander). This would have been easily fixed with taking the time to do some basic googling.
My average rating for Kingsbury's books is about 4.0 so I rated this one as 3.0.
The second thing that irked me was the lack of understanding about Shane's profession. I am in the Navy and I understand Karen is not, but I would have appreciated some basic research on the ranking structure. She describes Shane as a Captain in the Navy but that means he would have been an O-6. A Captain in every other service is an O-3. Based on the timeline of the novel and that Shane is 37, he would have only had about 15 years in the Navy. He would have likely been an O-4 (Lieutenant Commander) or maybe an O-5 (Commander). This would have been easily fixed with taking the time to do some basic googling.
My average rating for Kingsbury's books is about 4.0 so I rated this one as 3.0.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
Good Christian fiction book. The sadness at the end is real. Crazy how everything went down. So many years lost…
April 24, 2020
I absolutely loved this book!! The author brings in Christianity throughout the storyline. She's definitely a powerful writer and I will be reading more of her books!
August 6, 2021
A sweet story and I look forward to reading book 2!
February 12, 2024
One of the strangest journeys I've ever taken in my reading career. I was around 14 years old and in love with a girl named Emily. A girl with the same name as the main character of this book. Emily was also in love with me. It was puppy love. You know, secretly meeting in the stairwell and sending each other messages on Hyves. I sometimes cycled 21 km (round trip) just to say hello to her for 5 minutes. She loved that. I thoroughly enjoyed this avant-garde infatuation. We talked endlessly with each other. About the stars, the moon, and boundless love. Through her, I learned to look beyond the superficiality of teenage love. She promised to stay with me, and I promised the same to her. She always said to me, "you and me for now and always." Just like the title of this book. Back then, I didn't know where she got it from, and I took that phrase to heart.
Oh well,as I said, it was young love. She was an incredibly shy girl who was also stunningly beautiful and had a unique way of igniting a fire in your heart that would keep you warm forever. At the same time, she was immensely creative. Totally my type. Fortunately, after many detours and years, I found someone who was truly worth it.
Anyway, unfortunately, she didn't realize her full potential. Due to her high intelligence, she even outsmarted teachers. Her friends didn't interest her at all. No one really knew her except for me at the time. She always kept a low profile, and that's why she kept me hidden too. Her friends weren't supposed to know that she met with me. No one was supposed to know that I was her boyfriend. I was fine with it all. As long as she was happy, I would do anything for her. She once told me that I needed to improve my writing and spelling because I hadn't received a good education in elementary school. She also said that I should learn English. I had temporarily lost interest in my reading hobby at that time, so I started reading like crazy and watching English movies. I slept only a few hours at night to catch up. Strangely enough, my academic performance improved even more, and I emerged from my teenage phase. Suddenly, I had a 9 in English and Dutch instead of a 6. It's amazing how much energy you can draw from the encouragement of love.
Suddenly, just before the summer, everything changed. Out of nowhere, she blocked me on MSN and Hyves. Emily decided to ignore me and block me everywhere (what they now call ghosting). I didn't know what to do with my life. In the first few days, I thought it was a joke. Until one of her friends came and told me that it was over. I heard nothing from her. She walked past me in the hallways and didn't even look at me. My heart was truly broken for the first time. And how. I had absolutely no idea why she was ignoring me. No reason was given. There was no justification for this drastic action. I wrote notes and put them in her locker. I bought her favorite candy and gave it to her friends. I tried to impress with high grades. I did everything I could to establish contact with her without imposing myself. But all in vain. I was left alone with a broken heart and trauma. I didn't know what to do with my life.
So, I turned my full attention to books. I read endlessly. Everywhere I went. In class, while showering, and late into the night. It took a long time for me to recover and get her out of my mind. I devoured everything related to anything she liked or had her name on it. Including this book that I came across and, of course, picked up because of the name of the main character. This book is an incredibly clichéd romance story that I wouldn't recommend to readers unfamiliar with the genre. It's far too America-centric and predictable. But well, both Emilys are American, so... I still shed a tear for the book. I remember that. The events in the book remain sad, but the tears mainly came from my own sadness. The ending is easy to predict.
Four years later, Emily and I both took our final exams. I was far from over her, but I decided not to focus on Emily anymore. She was too much of a distraction for me. I had made new friends and developed myself. I had become what they call a 'unique' guy. Good at sports, extremely articulate, and high grades. But I was terrible with girls. They didn't interest me at all. I knew this and didn't mind it. I didn't enjoy infatuations and those things like my peers did because I thought I would never meet someone like Emily again. Well, when you're young... Occasionally, Emily would say hi in the hallway again. She approached me during the final exams about the French exam. As if we didn't know each other. I didn't let it happen again and ignored her.
Sometime later, during the diploma ceremony, she came up to me. She and I had the highest grades in our year, and she congratulated me for that. She asked if I would listen to her for a moment, and I reluctantly agreed in my euphoric mood. She explained to me that she saw no other choice but to ignore me because she had fallen too deeply in love with me, and she couldn't see how we could have a future together. She wanted to protect herself. This was her way of dealing with it. I told her that she couldn't imagine how painful something like that is. She apologized and said it was one of the worst things she had ever done in her life. She expressed regret and kissed me on the cheek. I was astonished. The pain and sorrow disappeared like magic. Since then, I have completely let go of Emily. Not long ago, she sent a message again. She wanted to apologize again and wanted to meet with me. She said she had never forgotten me and wanted to give it another try. I didn't respond and forgot about it. It's only because I came across this book on this site that these memories resurfaced. I have found happiness elsewhere in the meantime. Literal happiness. Despite being together for years, she still enchants me with a simple giggle. Emily didn't do that. Because of her, the fire in me burns even brighter. Thanks to her, I know that you should always talk about what's bothering you to grow together. I'm doing my best to learn that, and I will always do my best for her. I would give my life to make her happy. Literally. Just like in this book, where Justin ultimately gives everything to make Emily happy. Sometimes, I'm afraid that I might scare her away with this (just like what happened to Emily in the book), but I will give her all the space she needs because she deserves it. In the end, love conquers all, or as I still remember from the book after all these years, "love conquers everything."
Thank you, Emily (Emily in real life and Emily in the book), for this lesson. I am grateful to you both and have forgiven you both. Some events can only teach you and make you a better person. Fortunately, I succeeded. Thank you, Mrs. Kingsbury, for the title of this book. The puzzle pieces have finally fallen into place.
Let the fire keep burning. For now and always.
Eén van de raarste uitstapjes die ik ooit heb gemaakt in mijn leescarriére. Ik was ongeveer 14 en verliefd op een meisje dat Emily heet. Een meisje met dezelfde naam als de hoofdpersoon van dit boek. Emily was ook verliefd op mij. Kalverliefde was het. Je weet wel, stiekem afspreken in het trappenhuis en elkaar krabbels sturen op Hyves. Ik fietste soms 21 km (een en weer) om haar 5 minuten gedag te zeggen. Dat vond ze geweldig. Ik genoot intens van deze avant-garde hartstocht. We spraken eindeloos veel met elkaar. Over de sterren, de maan en grenzeloze liefde. Door haar leerde ik verder te kijken dan de oppervlakkigheid van puberliefde. Ze beloofde mij bij mij te blijven en ik beloofde dat zelfs aan haar. Ze zei altijd tegen mij "jij en ik voor nu en altijd". Net als de titel van dit boek. Ik wist toen nog niet waar ze het vandaan had en slikte deze kreet als zoete koek. Ach ja, zoals ik zei kalverliefde. Zij was zo'n ontzetten verlegen meisje dat tegelijkertijd ontzettend knap was en op een bijzondere manier een vuurtje in je hart laat branden waardoor je het nooit meer koud hebt. Tegelijkertijd was ze mateloos creatief. Helemaal mijn type. Gelukkig heb ik -vele omzwervingen en jaren- later iemand gevonden wie het wel waard is.
Hoe dan ook. Zij besefte helaas niet waartoe ze allemaal in staat was. Door haar hoogbegaafdheid was ze zelfs leraren te snel af. Haar vriendinnen boeiden haar totaal niet. Niemand kende haar echt behalve ik toen. Ze hield zich altijd op de vlakte en daarom hield ze mij ook verborgen. Haar vriendinnen mochten niet weten dat ze met mij afsprak. Niemand mocht weten dat ik haar vriendje was. Ik vond het allemaal goed. Zolang ze maar blij was deed ik alles voor haar. Ze zei een keer dat ik beter moest leren schrijven en spellen. Ik had geen goed onderwijs gehad op de basisschool namelijk. Ook zei ze dat ik Engels moest leren. Ik was toen even tijdelijk uit mijn leeshobby geraakt en ben als een gek gaan lezen en Engelse films gaan kijken. Ik sliep nachts maar een paar uur om het bij te kunnen benen. Gek genoeg werden mijn schoolprestaties alleen maar beter en kwam ik uit mijn puberfase. Ik stond opeens een 9 op Engels en Nederlands in plaats van een 6. Het is bijzonder hoeveel energie je uit de aansporingen van de liefde kunt halen.
Plotsklaps -vlak voor de zomer- veranderde echter alles. Op een dag uit het niets werd ik door haar geblokkeerd op msn en op hyves. Emily besloot mij te negeren en overal te blokkeren (wat ze nu ghosten noemen). Ik wist niet wat ik aan moest met mijn leven. De eerste dagen dacht ik dat het een grapje was. Totdat één van haar vriendinnen kwam vertellen dat het uit was. Van haar hoorde ik niks. Ze liep me voorbij in de gangen en ze keek me niet meer aan. Mijn hart werd voor het eerst echt gebroken. En hoe. Ik had echt geen flauw idee waarom ze mij negeerde. Een reden werd niet genoemd. Er was ook geen aanleiding voor deze drastische actie. Ik schreef briefjes en stopte die in haar kluis. Ik kocht voor haar haar favoriete snoep en gaf het aan haar vriendinnen. Ik probeerde indruk te maken met hoge cijfers. Ik deed er alles aan om contact met haar te krijgen zonder mijzelf op te dringen. Maar tevergeefs. Ik bleef alleen achter met een gebroken hart en een trauma. Ik wist niet wat ik aan moest met mijn leven.
Ik richtte mij daarom volledig op boeken. Ik las eindeloos veel. Overal waar ik kwam. In de les, tijdens het douchen en tot diep in de nacht. Het duurde een lange tijd voordat ik weer mijzelf werd en haar uit mijn hoofd te zetten. Ik verslond alles wat maar te maken had met iets dat zij leuk vond of haar naam droeg. Zo ook dit boek dat ik tegenkwam en natuurlijk oppakte vanwege de naam van de hoofdpersoon. Dit boek is een ongelooflijk clichéromantiek verhaal dat ik lezers die niet bekend zijn met het genre niet zou aanraden om op te pakken. Veel te Amerikacentrisch en voorspelbaar. Maar goed beide Emily' zijn Amerikaans dus ja... Ik moest wel een traan om laten om het boek. Dat weet ik nog. De gebeurtenissen in het boek blijven triest maar de tranen kwamen hoofdzakelijk vanwege mijn eigen verdriet. Het einde is makkelijk te voorspellen.
Vier jaar later deden Emily en ik allebei eindexamen. Ik was er nog lang niet overheen maar besloot mij niet meer bezig te houden met Emily. Ze was een te grote afleiding voor mij. Ik had nieuwe vrienden gemaakt en had mijzelf ontwikkeld. Ik was wat ze noemen een 'aparte' jongen geworden. Goed in sport, ontzettend goed gebekt en hoge cijfers. Maar totaal geen ster met meisjes. Ze beroerden mij niet. Dit laatste wist ik en vond ik niet erg. Ik genoot namelijk totaal niet van verliefdheden en dat soort dingen zoals mijn leeftijdgenoten want ik dacht dat ik niet meer iemand zou tegenkomen zoals Emily. Ach ja, als je jong bent... Af en toe zei Emily toch weer hoi op de gang. Ze sprak me tijdens de eindexamens aan over het Frans examen. Alsof we elkaar niet kenden. Ik liet het mij niet nog een keer gebeuren en heb haar toen genegeerd.
Een poosje later tijdens de diploma-uitreiking kwam ze naar mij toe. Zij en ik hadden de hoogste cijfers van ons jaar gehaald en ze feliciteerde mij daarmee. Ze vroeg of ik even naar haar wilde luisteren en ik gaf -euforische bui- toch toe. Ze legde mij uit dat ze geen andere keus zag dan mij te negeren omdat ze te verliefd op mij was geworden en ze niet inzag hoe wij samen een toekomst konden hebben. Ze wilde haar zelf beschermen. Dit was haar manier om daar mee om te gaan. Ik zei dat ze niet kon voorstellen hoe pijnlijk zoiets is. Ze bood haar excuses aan en zei dat het één van de ergste dingen was die ze had gedaan in haar leven. Ze zei dat ze er veel spijt van had en kuste mij op de wang. Ik stond perplex. De pijn en het verdriet losten op als sneeuw voor de zon. Sindsdien heb ik Emily volledig laten gaan. Niet lang geleden stuurde ze toch nog een bericht. Ze wilde haar excuses nog eens aanbieden en wilde graag met mij afspreken. Ze zei dat ze mij nooit was vergeten en dat ze het nog eens wil proberen. Ik heb er niet op gereageerd en ben het vergeten. Het is dat ik dit boek nu tegenkom op deze site en dit wordt opgerakeld. Ik heb mijn geluk inmiddels elders getroffen. Letterlijk geluk, ondanks jaren samen te zijn betoverd ze mij namelijk nog met een simpel giecheltje. Dat deed Emily niet. Door haar brand het vuur in mij alleen maar beter. Door haar weet ik dat je te allen tijde moet praten over wat je dwars zit om samen te groeien. Ik doe mijn best om dat te leren en voor haar zal ik mijn best altijd blijven doen. Ik geef mijn leven er voor om haar gelukkig te maken. Letterlijk. Net als in dit boek uiteindelijk Justin alles geeft om Emily gelukkig te maken. Soms ben ik bang dat ik haar daarmee afschrik (zoals Emily in het boek ook gebeurde) maar ik zal haar alle ruimte geven die ze nodig heeft want dat verdient ze. Uiteindelijk overwint de liefde, of zoals ik na al die jaren mij nog kan herinneren uit het boek "liefde overbrugt alles".
Bedankt Emily (Emily in rl en Emily in het boek) voor deze les. Ik ben jullie dankbaar en heb jullie vergeven. Van sommige gebeurtenissen kan je alleen maar leren en een beter mens worden. Gelukkig is mij dat gelukt. Bedankt mevrouw Kingsbury voor de titel van dit boek. De puzzelstukjes zijn nu eindelijk op hun plaats gevallen.
Laat het vuur maar branden. Voor nu en altijd.
Oh well,as I said, it was young love. She was an incredibly shy girl who was also stunningly beautiful and had a unique way of igniting a fire in your heart that would keep you warm forever. At the same time, she was immensely creative. Totally my type. Fortunately, after many detours and years, I found someone who was truly worth it.
Anyway, unfortunately, she didn't realize her full potential. Due to her high intelligence, she even outsmarted teachers. Her friends didn't interest her at all. No one really knew her except for me at the time. She always kept a low profile, and that's why she kept me hidden too. Her friends weren't supposed to know that she met with me. No one was supposed to know that I was her boyfriend. I was fine with it all. As long as she was happy, I would do anything for her. She once told me that I needed to improve my writing and spelling because I hadn't received a good education in elementary school. She also said that I should learn English. I had temporarily lost interest in my reading hobby at that time, so I started reading like crazy and watching English movies. I slept only a few hours at night to catch up. Strangely enough, my academic performance improved even more, and I emerged from my teenage phase. Suddenly, I had a 9 in English and Dutch instead of a 6. It's amazing how much energy you can draw from the encouragement of love.
Suddenly, just before the summer, everything changed. Out of nowhere, she blocked me on MSN and Hyves. Emily decided to ignore me and block me everywhere (what they now call ghosting). I didn't know what to do with my life. In the first few days, I thought it was a joke. Until one of her friends came and told me that it was over. I heard nothing from her. She walked past me in the hallways and didn't even look at me. My heart was truly broken for the first time. And how. I had absolutely no idea why she was ignoring me. No reason was given. There was no justification for this drastic action. I wrote notes and put them in her locker. I bought her favorite candy and gave it to her friends. I tried to impress with high grades. I did everything I could to establish contact with her without imposing myself. But all in vain. I was left alone with a broken heart and trauma. I didn't know what to do with my life.
So, I turned my full attention to books. I read endlessly. Everywhere I went. In class, while showering, and late into the night. It took a long time for me to recover and get her out of my mind. I devoured everything related to anything she liked or had her name on it. Including this book that I came across and, of course, picked up because of the name of the main character. This book is an incredibly clichéd romance story that I wouldn't recommend to readers unfamiliar with the genre. It's far too America-centric and predictable. But well, both Emilys are American, so... I still shed a tear for the book. I remember that. The events in the book remain sad, but the tears mainly came from my own sadness. The ending is easy to predict.
Four years later, Emily and I both took our final exams. I was far from over her, but I decided not to focus on Emily anymore. She was too much of a distraction for me. I had made new friends and developed myself. I had become what they call a 'unique' guy. Good at sports, extremely articulate, and high grades. But I was terrible with girls. They didn't interest me at all. I knew this and didn't mind it. I didn't enjoy infatuations and those things like my peers did because I thought I would never meet someone like Emily again. Well, when you're young... Occasionally, Emily would say hi in the hallway again. She approached me during the final exams about the French exam. As if we didn't know each other. I didn't let it happen again and ignored her.
Sometime later, during the diploma ceremony, she came up to me. She and I had the highest grades in our year, and she congratulated me for that. She asked if I would listen to her for a moment, and I reluctantly agreed in my euphoric mood. She explained to me that she saw no other choice but to ignore me because she had fallen too deeply in love with me, and she couldn't see how we could have a future together. She wanted to protect herself. This was her way of dealing with it. I told her that she couldn't imagine how painful something like that is. She apologized and said it was one of the worst things she had ever done in her life. She expressed regret and kissed me on the cheek. I was astonished. The pain and sorrow disappeared like magic. Since then, I have completely let go of Emily. Not long ago, she sent a message again. She wanted to apologize again and wanted to meet with me. She said she had never forgotten me and wanted to give it another try. I didn't respond and forgot about it. It's only because I came across this book on this site that these memories resurfaced. I have found happiness elsewhere in the meantime. Literal happiness. Despite being together for years, she still enchants me with a simple giggle. Emily didn't do that. Because of her, the fire in me burns even brighter. Thanks to her, I know that you should always talk about what's bothering you to grow together. I'm doing my best to learn that, and I will always do my best for her. I would give my life to make her happy. Literally. Just like in this book, where Justin ultimately gives everything to make Emily happy. Sometimes, I'm afraid that I might scare her away with this (just like what happened to Emily in the book), but I will give her all the space she needs because she deserves it. In the end, love conquers all, or as I still remember from the book after all these years, "love conquers everything."
Thank you, Emily (Emily in real life and Emily in the book), for this lesson. I am grateful to you both and have forgiven you both. Some events can only teach you and make you a better person. Fortunately, I succeeded. Thank you, Mrs. Kingsbury, for the title of this book. The puzzle pieces have finally fallen into place.
Let the fire keep burning. For now and always.
Eén van de raarste uitstapjes die ik ooit heb gemaakt in mijn leescarriére. Ik was ongeveer 14 en verliefd op een meisje dat Emily heet. Een meisje met dezelfde naam als de hoofdpersoon van dit boek. Emily was ook verliefd op mij. Kalverliefde was het. Je weet wel, stiekem afspreken in het trappenhuis en elkaar krabbels sturen op Hyves. Ik fietste soms 21 km (een en weer) om haar 5 minuten gedag te zeggen. Dat vond ze geweldig. Ik genoot intens van deze avant-garde hartstocht. We spraken eindeloos veel met elkaar. Over de sterren, de maan en grenzeloze liefde. Door haar leerde ik verder te kijken dan de oppervlakkigheid van puberliefde. Ze beloofde mij bij mij te blijven en ik beloofde dat zelfs aan haar. Ze zei altijd tegen mij "jij en ik voor nu en altijd". Net als de titel van dit boek. Ik wist toen nog niet waar ze het vandaan had en slikte deze kreet als zoete koek. Ach ja, zoals ik zei kalverliefde. Zij was zo'n ontzetten verlegen meisje dat tegelijkertijd ontzettend knap was en op een bijzondere manier een vuurtje in je hart laat branden waardoor je het nooit meer koud hebt. Tegelijkertijd was ze mateloos creatief. Helemaal mijn type. Gelukkig heb ik -vele omzwervingen en jaren- later iemand gevonden wie het wel waard is.
Hoe dan ook. Zij besefte helaas niet waartoe ze allemaal in staat was. Door haar hoogbegaafdheid was ze zelfs leraren te snel af. Haar vriendinnen boeiden haar totaal niet. Niemand kende haar echt behalve ik toen. Ze hield zich altijd op de vlakte en daarom hield ze mij ook verborgen. Haar vriendinnen mochten niet weten dat ze met mij afsprak. Niemand mocht weten dat ik haar vriendje was. Ik vond het allemaal goed. Zolang ze maar blij was deed ik alles voor haar. Ze zei een keer dat ik beter moest leren schrijven en spellen. Ik had geen goed onderwijs gehad op de basisschool namelijk. Ook zei ze dat ik Engels moest leren. Ik was toen even tijdelijk uit mijn leeshobby geraakt en ben als een gek gaan lezen en Engelse films gaan kijken. Ik sliep nachts maar een paar uur om het bij te kunnen benen. Gek genoeg werden mijn schoolprestaties alleen maar beter en kwam ik uit mijn puberfase. Ik stond opeens een 9 op Engels en Nederlands in plaats van een 6. Het is bijzonder hoeveel energie je uit de aansporingen van de liefde kunt halen.
Plotsklaps -vlak voor de zomer- veranderde echter alles. Op een dag uit het niets werd ik door haar geblokkeerd op msn en op hyves. Emily besloot mij te negeren en overal te blokkeren (wat ze nu ghosten noemen). Ik wist niet wat ik aan moest met mijn leven. De eerste dagen dacht ik dat het een grapje was. Totdat één van haar vriendinnen kwam vertellen dat het uit was. Van haar hoorde ik niks. Ze liep me voorbij in de gangen en ze keek me niet meer aan. Mijn hart werd voor het eerst echt gebroken. En hoe. Ik had echt geen flauw idee waarom ze mij negeerde. Een reden werd niet genoemd. Er was ook geen aanleiding voor deze drastische actie. Ik schreef briefjes en stopte die in haar kluis. Ik kocht voor haar haar favoriete snoep en gaf het aan haar vriendinnen. Ik probeerde indruk te maken met hoge cijfers. Ik deed er alles aan om contact met haar te krijgen zonder mijzelf op te dringen. Maar tevergeefs. Ik bleef alleen achter met een gebroken hart en een trauma. Ik wist niet wat ik aan moest met mijn leven.
Ik richtte mij daarom volledig op boeken. Ik las eindeloos veel. Overal waar ik kwam. In de les, tijdens het douchen en tot diep in de nacht. Het duurde een lange tijd voordat ik weer mijzelf werd en haar uit mijn hoofd te zetten. Ik verslond alles wat maar te maken had met iets dat zij leuk vond of haar naam droeg. Zo ook dit boek dat ik tegenkwam en natuurlijk oppakte vanwege de naam van de hoofdpersoon. Dit boek is een ongelooflijk clichéromantiek verhaal dat ik lezers die niet bekend zijn met het genre niet zou aanraden om op te pakken. Veel te Amerikacentrisch en voorspelbaar. Maar goed beide Emily' zijn Amerikaans dus ja... Ik moest wel een traan om laten om het boek. Dat weet ik nog. De gebeurtenissen in het boek blijven triest maar de tranen kwamen hoofdzakelijk vanwege mijn eigen verdriet. Het einde is makkelijk te voorspellen.
Vier jaar later deden Emily en ik allebei eindexamen. Ik was er nog lang niet overheen maar besloot mij niet meer bezig te houden met Emily. Ze was een te grote afleiding voor mij. Ik had nieuwe vrienden gemaakt en had mijzelf ontwikkeld. Ik was wat ze noemen een 'aparte' jongen geworden. Goed in sport, ontzettend goed gebekt en hoge cijfers. Maar totaal geen ster met meisjes. Ze beroerden mij niet. Dit laatste wist ik en vond ik niet erg. Ik genoot namelijk totaal niet van verliefdheden en dat soort dingen zoals mijn leeftijdgenoten want ik dacht dat ik niet meer iemand zou tegenkomen zoals Emily. Ach ja, als je jong bent... Af en toe zei Emily toch weer hoi op de gang. Ze sprak me tijdens de eindexamens aan over het Frans examen. Alsof we elkaar niet kenden. Ik liet het mij niet nog een keer gebeuren en heb haar toen genegeerd.
Een poosje later tijdens de diploma-uitreiking kwam ze naar mij toe. Zij en ik hadden de hoogste cijfers van ons jaar gehaald en ze feliciteerde mij daarmee. Ze vroeg of ik even naar haar wilde luisteren en ik gaf -euforische bui- toch toe. Ze legde mij uit dat ze geen andere keus zag dan mij te negeren omdat ze te verliefd op mij was geworden en ze niet inzag hoe wij samen een toekomst konden hebben. Ze wilde haar zelf beschermen. Dit was haar manier om daar mee om te gaan. Ik zei dat ze niet kon voorstellen hoe pijnlijk zoiets is. Ze bood haar excuses aan en zei dat het één van de ergste dingen was die ze had gedaan in haar leven. Ze zei dat ze er veel spijt van had en kuste mij op de wang. Ik stond perplex. De pijn en het verdriet losten op als sneeuw voor de zon. Sindsdien heb ik Emily volledig laten gaan. Niet lang geleden stuurde ze toch nog een bericht. Ze wilde haar excuses nog eens aanbieden en wilde graag met mij afspreken. Ze zei dat ze mij nooit was vergeten en dat ze het nog eens wil proberen. Ik heb er niet op gereageerd en ben het vergeten. Het is dat ik dit boek nu tegenkom op deze site en dit wordt opgerakeld. Ik heb mijn geluk inmiddels elders getroffen. Letterlijk geluk, ondanks jaren samen te zijn betoverd ze mij namelijk nog met een simpel giecheltje. Dat deed Emily niet. Door haar brand het vuur in mij alleen maar beter. Door haar weet ik dat je te allen tijde moet praten over wat je dwars zit om samen te groeien. Ik doe mijn best om dat te leren en voor haar zal ik mijn best altijd blijven doen. Ik geef mijn leven er voor om haar gelukkig te maken. Letterlijk. Net als in dit boek uiteindelijk Justin alles geeft om Emily gelukkig te maken. Soms ben ik bang dat ik haar daarmee afschrik (zoals Emily in het boek ook gebeurde) maar ik zal haar alle ruimte geven die ze nodig heeft want dat verdient ze. Uiteindelijk overwint de liefde, of zoals ik na al die jaren mij nog kan herinneren uit het boek "liefde overbrugt alles".
Bedankt Emily (Emily in rl en Emily in het boek) voor deze les. Ik ben jullie dankbaar en heb jullie vergeven. Van sommige gebeurtenissen kan je alleen maar leren en een beter mens worden. Gelukkig is mij dat gelukt. Bedankt mevrouw Kingsbury voor de titel van dit boek. De puzzelstukjes zijn nu eindelijk op hun plaats gevallen.
Laat het vuur maar branden. Voor nu en altijd.
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