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The Baxter Family #4
When We Were Young
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury comes a classic story about second chances, featuring the beloved Baxter family and a young father who finds his whole world turned upside down on the eve of his divorce.
What if you could see into the future and know what will happen tomorrow, if you really walk out that door today. Pay attention. Life is not a dress rehearsal.
From their first meeting, to their stunning engagement and lavish wedding, to their happily-ever-after, Noah and Emily Carter seemed meant to be. They have a special kind of love—and they want the world to know. More than a million adoring fans have followed their lives on Instagram since the day Noah publicly proposed to Emily. But behind the carefully staged photos and encouraging posts, their life is anything but a fairytale, and Noah’s obsession with social media has ruined everything.
Distraught, Emily reaches out to her friend Kari Baxter Taylor and tells her the Noah and Emily have decided to call it quits. He is leaving in the morning.
But when Noah wakes the next day, everything is different. Emily is gone and the kids are years older. Like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, bizarre and strange events continue throughout the night so that Noah is certain he’s twenty years older, and he is desperate for a second chance.
Now it would take a miracle to return to yesterday.
When We Were Young is a rare and beautiful love story that takes place in a single day. It’s about knowing what tomorrow will bring if you really walk out that door today—and the gift of being able to choose differently.
What if you could see into the future and know what will happen tomorrow, if you really walk out that door today. Pay attention. Life is not a dress rehearsal.
From their first meeting, to their stunning engagement and lavish wedding, to their happily-ever-after, Noah and Emily Carter seemed meant to be. They have a special kind of love—and they want the world to know. More than a million adoring fans have followed their lives on Instagram since the day Noah publicly proposed to Emily. But behind the carefully staged photos and encouraging posts, their life is anything but a fairytale, and Noah’s obsession with social media has ruined everything.
Distraught, Emily reaches out to her friend Kari Baxter Taylor and tells her the Noah and Emily have decided to call it quits. He is leaving in the morning.
But when Noah wakes the next day, everything is different. Emily is gone and the kids are years older. Like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, bizarre and strange events continue throughout the night so that Noah is certain he’s twenty years older, and he is desperate for a second chance.
Now it would take a miracle to return to yesterday.
When We Were Young is a rare and beautiful love story that takes place in a single day. It’s about knowing what tomorrow will bring if you really walk out that door today—and the gift of being able to choose differently.
391 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2018
1261 people are currently reading
4165 people want to read
About the author
Karen Kingsbury
212 books12.2k 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 484 reviews
October 15, 2018
Very fast read, and an intriguing premise that propels the plot and made me really want to know how things were going to turn out.
What did not work for me (mild spoilers):
Everything here is nearly one-sided. Noah is made to be the ultimate villain, especially when he begins to have flashes of what the future will hold for him and his family. Although lip service is given in a few places to Emily's role in the demise/fade of their marriage, overall Kingsbury lays the blame at Noah's feet and hits the reader over the head with a sledgehammer with the bleakness of his future after the choices he makes. This is pretty much were she lost me, because I couldn't relate the Noah portrayed in the past and present with the person he seems to become in the future.
I think this story would have been so much more effective for me had the author given equally bleak future glimpses to both Noah and Emily and then had them come back together to fight for their marriage. It didn't seem that Emily was at all willing to fight to keep the marriage together in the first place, she had just given up.
As a side storyline, the small portion with Ryan and Kari was totally unrealistic and unappealing as well. Again, it made the man out to be the "bad guy" in the situation, and his dreams for his future seemed to be devalued and so much less than Kari's desires.
I am so invested in the Baxters and this series of books that I just keep reading them, even though some (like this one) are way too heavy handed and preachy. The author's very valid points about social media and loss of connection get lost in the shuffle of so many other soapbox issues. I really liked her idea of God using dreams to change hearts, but I thought the book's one-sided treatment of the issue lost the overall impact that could have been shown.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
What did not work for me (mild spoilers):
Everything here is nearly one-sided. Noah is made to be the ultimate villain, especially when he begins to have flashes of what the future will hold for him and his family. Although lip service is given in a few places to Emily's role in the demise/fade of their marriage, overall Kingsbury lays the blame at Noah's feet and hits the reader over the head with a sledgehammer with the bleakness of his future after the choices he makes. This is pretty much were she lost me, because I couldn't relate the Noah portrayed in the past and present with the person he seems to become in the future.
I think this story would have been so much more effective for me had the author given equally bleak future glimpses to both Noah and Emily and then had them come back together to fight for their marriage. It didn't seem that Emily was at all willing to fight to keep the marriage together in the first place, she had just given up.
As a side storyline, the small portion with Ryan and Kari was totally unrealistic and unappealing as well. Again, it made the man out to be the "bad guy" in the situation, and his dreams for his future seemed to be devalued and so much less than Kari's desires.
I am so invested in the Baxters and this series of books that I just keep reading them, even though some (like this one) are way too heavy handed and preachy. The author's very valid points about social media and loss of connection get lost in the shuffle of so many other soapbox issues. I really liked her idea of God using dreams to change hearts, but I thought the book's one-sided treatment of the issue lost the overall impact that could have been shown.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 27, 2018
I have been a fan of the Baxter's from the beginning. Kari Baxter Taylor and her husband Ryan host a Bible study for young married couples. One of their young couples is in trouble. Noah and Emily had a fairy tale love story, posting their success and advice on social media. But when Noah becomes obsessed with his social media accounts, Emily feels he is neglecting her and their two young children. They have reached an impass, and Noah is planning on moving out. In one restless night, Noah has visions of his future without his wife and children and the forecast is bleak. As Noah alternately relives their their love story and sees the consequences of his leaving, his love and faith are renewed. Emily too reflects on their marriage and where the fractures began. Can God restore their marriage?
While I do believe that too many today are far too connected to social media, often at the expense of personal relationships, I felt the portrayal of Noah's future was a bit extreme. The message though is timely and important.
While I do believe that too many today are far too connected to social media, often at the expense of personal relationships, I felt the portrayal of Noah's future was a bit extreme. The message though is timely and important.
December 20, 2018
Reviewed on: Ashes Books & Bobs.
Many thanks to Howard Books for a review copy of this novel!
Karen Kingsbury can write a page-turner, that’s for sure. This is only the second book I’ve read of hers but it’s clear each story she writes is a quick read. I was eager to read this modern rendition of A Christmas Carol this season. The Dickens’ Classic is one of my favorite stories, simply because all of us have a little Scrooge inside of us. Sometimes we need a wake-up call to get our lives back on track or if only to remind us to show gratitude for the lives we have been given. When We Were Young definitely hit the nail on the head in that regard.
I appreciated the message of this story and found it completely refreshing as I began and finished reading. Marriage is a topic that’s near and dear to my heart, something I’m passionate about. Unfortunately, in our world, divorce is rampant. It seems like every other person I know has been through the experience – as if it’s become society’s next step in life after entering a union. Just as a divorce affects every person a couple knows, a great marriage can too. My husband’s and my goal is to encourage others by being an example of a healthy marriage, especially to young couples. If young people can see not just love, but loyalty still exists, there is hope. As I read this book, I was refreshed to see this message being woven into the story. Marriage is worth fighting for, plain and simple.
Not only did I love the encouragement for marriage, but I appreciated the reminder to get our noses out of our screens and spend quality time with those we love most. Social media is addictive, it’s something I’ve experienced the effects of, along with probably more than half of our society, though many would be reluctant to admit it. I recently read an article likening the effects of social media on our brains to that of cocaine usage – a scary thought for those of us attempting to live addiction-free lives. It’s no wonder our time in the virtual world is creating a barrier in our real-life relationships. This book allowed readers to see, possibly a drastic view, of how damaging our online lives can become if our impulses are too challenging to control.
I hate to have a complaint about a book that resonated with me and featured important and life-changing lessons, but unfortunately, there are a few, forcing me to dole out three stars instead of five. I felt as if nearly the entire middle of this novel could have been skimmed over, due to the repetitive nature of the story. Similar phrases and plot points were overused, rather than edited out. The characters felt flat and all featured the same type of near-perfect Christian persona. The writing style was very simple, giving the story a “Hallmark feel”. This can be great for making this book accessible to readers of all ages and reading levels, but I needed a little more depth. I also feel as if Karen’s stories err on the dramatic side, making the story feel incredibly fictional. Despite these issues, I think this book will serve its purpose and features a great message. I certainly found the implication to be more present and attentive in my marriage a great reminder. I also enjoyed the tie-ins with previous novels, though this reads as a stand-alone. Now I’m passing this one along to my mother-in-law, who I think has read all of Karen’s books seventeen times each. 😉
Many thanks to Howard Books for a review copy of this novel!
Karen Kingsbury can write a page-turner, that’s for sure. This is only the second book I’ve read of hers but it’s clear each story she writes is a quick read. I was eager to read this modern rendition of A Christmas Carol this season. The Dickens’ Classic is one of my favorite stories, simply because all of us have a little Scrooge inside of us. Sometimes we need a wake-up call to get our lives back on track or if only to remind us to show gratitude for the lives we have been given. When We Were Young definitely hit the nail on the head in that regard.
I appreciated the message of this story and found it completely refreshing as I began and finished reading. Marriage is a topic that’s near and dear to my heart, something I’m passionate about. Unfortunately, in our world, divorce is rampant. It seems like every other person I know has been through the experience – as if it’s become society’s next step in life after entering a union. Just as a divorce affects every person a couple knows, a great marriage can too. My husband’s and my goal is to encourage others by being an example of a healthy marriage, especially to young couples. If young people can see not just love, but loyalty still exists, there is hope. As I read this book, I was refreshed to see this message being woven into the story. Marriage is worth fighting for, plain and simple.
Not only did I love the encouragement for marriage, but I appreciated the reminder to get our noses out of our screens and spend quality time with those we love most. Social media is addictive, it’s something I’ve experienced the effects of, along with probably more than half of our society, though many would be reluctant to admit it. I recently read an article likening the effects of social media on our brains to that of cocaine usage – a scary thought for those of us attempting to live addiction-free lives. It’s no wonder our time in the virtual world is creating a barrier in our real-life relationships. This book allowed readers to see, possibly a drastic view, of how damaging our online lives can become if our impulses are too challenging to control.
I hate to have a complaint about a book that resonated with me and featured important and life-changing lessons, but unfortunately, there are a few, forcing me to dole out three stars instead of five. I felt as if nearly the entire middle of this novel could have been skimmed over, due to the repetitive nature of the story. Similar phrases and plot points were overused, rather than edited out. The characters felt flat and all featured the same type of near-perfect Christian persona. The writing style was very simple, giving the story a “Hallmark feel”. This can be great for making this book accessible to readers of all ages and reading levels, but I needed a little more depth. I also feel as if Karen’s stories err on the dramatic side, making the story feel incredibly fictional. Despite these issues, I think this book will serve its purpose and features a great message. I certainly found the implication to be more present and attentive in my marriage a great reminder. I also enjoyed the tie-ins with previous novels, though this reads as a stand-alone. Now I’m passing this one along to my mother-in-law, who I think has read all of Karen’s books seventeen times each. 😉
February 26, 2020
Why do I keep reading KK's books? The longer she writes, the more hand wringing-ly melodramatic and hyper spiritual the books become. And I stay up till midnight to finish. Gah. She can tell a compelling story that keeps you turning pages. There is nothing "wrong" with this book - it's a unique take on both A Christmas Carol and the damage social media can do to relationships. She weaves in visits with the familiar Baxter family characters, good relationship advice, and positive spiritual messages. What gets me, and yet I can't quit her, is the fawning self promotion she puts in her Author's Note(s) and promotional materials. She has branded her work as "life changing." She wrote an idealized version of her own family into her books. She claims her books are destined to become classics of this generation. Let others say that. Not the author. That's what gets me. Will it stop me from picking up another volume of the Baxter Family saga and tearing through it? No. But I'll keep grumbling as I do.
July 19, 2020
Getting back into reading Christian fiction, I find that one of the most inspirational and powerful authors is Karen Kingsbury. I find especially her Baxter family books that they tend to be able to get into those dark crevices of your heart and touch you in a way you never expected. Each book is powerful and shows that with God's love anything is possible and miracles never cease to amaze during this series. When We Were Young has a strong focus on a topic that is so vital in today's world - Social Media. Everyone is putting their lives online for fans, money. Influencer status can earn people up to six figures, just by sharing their daily lives constantly with the world. Free products can be earned, just by showing them on your feeds. For Noah and Emily Carter, they built their lives on Social media and created a brand called When We Were Young about their love, their family, and God. In the beginning, it was great, but now six years later - the cracks are starting to show and do damage to their marriage as Noah is so invested into the social media life and his fans, he doesn't see the fact it's breaking Emily and ruining his actual life. Emily can't take it anymore and asks Noah to move out. That night, Noah's son Aiden asks God for a miracle to keep his Daddy Home and that night God will pull 'A Christmas Carol" on Noah as he will wake up and find himself in the future over three/four occasions and discover the effects of him leaving on his children's lives, so much it will end in tragic circumstances. Can Noah get back to his reality and find the reasons he fell in love with Emily and be the dad he promised to be to Aiden and Olivia before Social Media took over the Carter's lives? Find out in this Christian version of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol - When We Were Young by Karen Kingsbury.
October 23, 2018
What a great story of being able to see what could happen if you walk out of a marriage.
This is the amazing story of Noah and Emily. It was so good, I read it in one day.
Parts of this book was heartbreaking to read.
Love well
This is the amazing story of Noah and Emily. It was so good, I read it in one day.
Parts of this book was heartbreaking to read.
Love well
July 20, 2018
This book shows what can happen to a happily married couple when one of the partners get too obsessed with social media. It shows what happens when you neglect the relationship. Noah got wrapped up with his social media accounts and neglected Emily. Emily didn't handle it well either. At the beginning I didn't like Noah very well. He was willing to walk out on his family. I didn't like the way he treated his wife. Emily finally gave up her pride and confided in her good friend Kari Baxter Taylor. Kari and her husband prayed for a miracle for this family. What if a the husband or wife could reflect back and remember why they fell in love? What if somehow one of them could get a glimpse of the future and the consequences to their young family because of their leaving?
Of all the many books Karen Kingsbury has written and she has written a lot this one has got to be my favorite. I really do think this would make a good made-for-television movie.
Thanks to Netgalley and Howard Books for providing me a digital copy of this book to read, The opinions are entirely my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Of all the many books Karen Kingsbury has written and she has written a lot this one has got to be my favorite. I really do think this would make a good made-for-television movie.
Thanks to Netgalley and Howard Books for providing me a digital copy of this book to read, The opinions are entirely my own and I was not compensated for this review.
December 26, 2018
I loved this book!! Great story!! Love this series!! Love this author's books!!
February 13, 2024
this book was so sweet. I loved the characters and the story line. it’s a nice simple read with a deeper meaning.
July 25, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Grab some tissues because you're gonna need them.
I read this book in sections, taking short breaks between chapters. Why did I do this? Because during those breaks I was having a good cry. This book is so memorable and touching that I believe I have found my new favorite Karen Kingsbury book (the former being Unlocked). This is by far the best book in the Baxter Series.
Noah and Emily are over. Their marriage in shambles. It's Noah's last night in his house before he would leave Emily, their children, and their marriage behind. Except...something's happening. Emily is remembering how they met, fell in love, and how their marriage ended and Noah's seeing his future if he did decide to move out.
This was heart-wrenching in the best possible way. I also love how this entire book is set entirely within a night and I highly recommend this for everyone. This book is sure to change lives and marriages around the world.
I recommend this book for ages 13+ for dramatic content.
Grab some tissues because you're gonna need them.
I read this book in sections, taking short breaks between chapters. Why did I do this? Because during those breaks I was having a good cry. This book is so memorable and touching that I believe I have found my new favorite Karen Kingsbury book (the former being Unlocked). This is by far the best book in the Baxter Series.
Noah and Emily are over. Their marriage in shambles. It's Noah's last night in his house before he would leave Emily, their children, and their marriage behind. Except...something's happening. Emily is remembering how they met, fell in love, and how their marriage ended and Noah's seeing his future if he did decide to move out.
This was heart-wrenching in the best possible way. I also love how this entire book is set entirely within a night and I highly recommend this for everyone. This book is sure to change lives and marriages around the world.
I recommend this book for ages 13+ for dramatic content.
March 6, 2019
I thought this was an interesting look at how social media can be disruptive of real life. I think it is a very timely subject right now, and the warnings were apt.
I also liked the way the story was told: through the memories of both Emily and Noah. I liked seeing how each of them remembered meeting and growing to love each other. I also thought the 'time slip' (not sure what else to call it) was an intriguing device to propel the story forward.
That said, the ending felt a little rushed to me. But, I guess if you're going to have an entire novel take place within the space of less than 24 hours, some things might be paced quicker than otherwise.
As to the part the extended Baxter family played, I liked that it was focused on Kari and Ryan. Sometimes the Baxter family saga feels a little 'too' Ashley-centric, so this was a nice change.
3.5 stars
I also liked the way the story was told: through the memories of both Emily and Noah. I liked seeing how each of them remembered meeting and growing to love each other. I also thought the 'time slip' (not sure what else to call it) was an intriguing device to propel the story forward.
That said, the ending felt a little rushed to me. But, I guess if you're going to have an entire novel take place within the space of less than 24 hours, some things might be paced quicker than otherwise.
As to the part the extended Baxter family played, I liked that it was focused on Kari and Ryan. Sometimes the Baxter family saga feels a little 'too' Ashley-centric, so this was a nice change.
3.5 stars
November 20, 2018
Another great story about love and trust and what tomorrow might bring should you walk away from a marriage and problems. Noah and Emily find
themselves and their marriage in trouble over social media. Noah falls
Asleep and dreams of occurrences twenty years in the future- much like
A Christmas Carol, and upon awakening he asks God for a miracle.
A fast and enjoyable read that takes you into the lives of two characters loved
And what they are facing at this time. It is always wonderful to read about
The Baxter’s and what is happening in their lives. Each story is another
Glimpse into the lives of beloved characters. Enjoy!!
themselves and their marriage in trouble over social media. Noah falls
Asleep and dreams of occurrences twenty years in the future- much like
A Christmas Carol, and upon awakening he asks God for a miracle.
A fast and enjoyable read that takes you into the lives of two characters loved
And what they are facing at this time. It is always wonderful to read about
The Baxter’s and what is happening in their lives. Each story is another
Glimpse into the lives of beloved characters. Enjoy!!
October 15, 2018
http://bookishdevices.com/2018/10/15/...
A story of how social media and the internet can be a detriment to our real-life relationships.
From their first meeting, to their stunning engagement and wedding, to their happily-ever-after, Noah and Emily Carter were meant to be together. Theirs is a special kind of love and they want the world to know. Fans have been following their lives since the day Noah proposed to Emily. But behind the carefully-staged photos and posts, their life is anything but a fairy tale and Noah’s obsession with posting to social media has ruined everything.
When We Were Young is Emily and Noah’s story. While Kari Baxter Taylor and her husband Ryan play a part in that story, this book is by no means a focus on the Baxter family and can be read as a stand-alone. If you haven’t read the 20+ Baxter books prior to this one, starting here will not be a problem.
I devoured When We Were Young in less than 24 hours! This book touched me like the most recent Baxter books haven’t. Karen handled the plot wonderfully and it really made me think about the time I spend online. Clara, Emily’s sister, is the character that touched me most, that brought the most smiles to my face and most tears to my eyes. Emily and Noah are struggling and so are Kari and Ryan. I hate saying I enjoyed seeing either couple struggling, but it was real life.
If you read Karen's most recent release, To the Moon and Back, you’ll remember Brady and Jenna. Wondering how their story continues? Well, you’ll get the briefest of updates about the couple.
This book was simply wonderful and I feel like I haven't adequately expressed how I feel. But I can’t encourage you enough to read this book. Do it now! It was heartbreaking, powerful, emotional and thought-provoking!
Will we see more of Emily and Noah? I don’t know, but I think the chance of a brief update in Karen’s next book, Two Weeks, is likely and one I’m hopeful for.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.
A story of how social media and the internet can be a detriment to our real-life relationships.
From their first meeting, to their stunning engagement and wedding, to their happily-ever-after, Noah and Emily Carter were meant to be together. Theirs is a special kind of love and they want the world to know. Fans have been following their lives since the day Noah proposed to Emily. But behind the carefully-staged photos and posts, their life is anything but a fairy tale and Noah’s obsession with posting to social media has ruined everything.
When We Were Young is Emily and Noah’s story. While Kari Baxter Taylor and her husband Ryan play a part in that story, this book is by no means a focus on the Baxter family and can be read as a stand-alone. If you haven’t read the 20+ Baxter books prior to this one, starting here will not be a problem.
I devoured When We Were Young in less than 24 hours! This book touched me like the most recent Baxter books haven’t. Karen handled the plot wonderfully and it really made me think about the time I spend online. Clara, Emily’s sister, is the character that touched me most, that brought the most smiles to my face and most tears to my eyes. Emily and Noah are struggling and so are Kari and Ryan. I hate saying I enjoyed seeing either couple struggling, but it was real life.
If you read Karen's most recent release, To the Moon and Back, you’ll remember Brady and Jenna. Wondering how their story continues? Well, you’ll get the briefest of updates about the couple.
This book was simply wonderful and I feel like I haven't adequately expressed how I feel. But I can’t encourage you enough to read this book. Do it now! It was heartbreaking, powerful, emotional and thought-provoking!
Will we see more of Emily and Noah? I don’t know, but I think the chance of a brief update in Karen’s next book, Two Weeks, is likely and one I’m hopeful for.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.
December 21, 2018
Another wonderful book by karen kingsbury loved every minute of this book if only we all could experience a breakthrough like Noah 💕💕 cant wait to read her next book :)
February 13, 2019
Amazing book, as always!
June 3, 2019
I have been reading Karen Kingsbury's books for 16 years now, and I've been following the Baxters since I was in high school. I took a small break from her when she ruined Bailey and Cody's relationship in lieu of imitating her own daughter's relationship in fiction.
Anywho. I digress.
Like I said above, I've been following the Baxters since I was in high school. I was excited to find this book revisited Kari and Ryan's love story. But there were so many things about it that felt wrong. Ryan would NEVER make a major decision without consulting Kari first. His taking the job in Arizona was the complete opposite of what he would have done in previous novels. Yeah, he changed his mind eventually, BUT he still did it. It also felt like it had very little to do with the story overall, except to bring back "Elizabeth's Rules For a Godly Marriage" so Kari could show Emily them.
The novel teetered on being borderline preachy about the dangers of social media. Yes, a whole bunch of problems comes from having using the Internet. . . kids getting early access to porn, easily falling into the trap of negative comparison because we're a generation of image crafters, and people want us to see how great their lives are instead of telling the honest truth about what's going on. But two of my best friends are in Australia and China, without social media, there is no way we could be there for each other. She completely ignored the good it does DO.
Then there was Emily, who KK tried to make look completely innocent, even though she was nasty to her husband. She was mean and unloving at times. It seemed like she couldn't stand him and didn't understand social media was his job, that it paid the bills, and gave her a wonderful life. Should have Noah spent so much time answering female fans? No. But all Emily did was accuse him, instead of offering to answer the fans for him or asking in love for him to stop. She was actually more bitter and angry than Noah. I'm surprised he didn't initiate the divorce. I was more sympathetic to him than her.
I hated the way they portrayed kids of divorce. There was no way Noah was completely responsible for his daughter's poor choices. Emily had to have had a hand in it somehow, but since it was all in a dream, we only saw his POV. It was also an awful portrayal of kids who come from divorced homes. I know lots of people, my mother included, who YES they have issues because they come from a broken home but not to the extremes written in this book.
I'm a Christian and I didn't like the overall preachiness of this story. It annoyed me more than inspired me.
What I did like about this book was the Christmas Carol vibes, but even that wasn't executed as well as Dickens' story.
Anywho. I digress.
Like I said above, I've been following the Baxters since I was in high school. I was excited to find this book revisited Kari and Ryan's love story. But there were so many things about it that felt wrong. Ryan would NEVER make a major decision without consulting Kari first. His taking the job in Arizona was the complete opposite of what he would have done in previous novels. Yeah, he changed his mind eventually, BUT he still did it. It also felt like it had very little to do with the story overall, except to bring back "Elizabeth's Rules For a Godly Marriage" so Kari could show Emily them.
The novel teetered on being borderline preachy about the dangers of social media. Yes, a whole bunch of problems comes from having using the Internet. . . kids getting early access to porn, easily falling into the trap of negative comparison because we're a generation of image crafters, and people want us to see how great their lives are instead of telling the honest truth about what's going on. But two of my best friends are in Australia and China, without social media, there is no way we could be there for each other. She completely ignored the good it does DO.
Then there was Emily, who KK tried to make look completely innocent, even though she was nasty to her husband. She was mean and unloving at times. It seemed like she couldn't stand him and didn't understand social media was his job, that it paid the bills, and gave her a wonderful life. Should have Noah spent so much time answering female fans? No. But all Emily did was accuse him, instead of offering to answer the fans for him or asking in love for him to stop. She was actually more bitter and angry than Noah. I'm surprised he didn't initiate the divorce. I was more sympathetic to him than her.
I hated the way they portrayed kids of divorce. There was no way Noah was completely responsible for his daughter's poor choices. Emily had to have had a hand in it somehow, but since it was all in a dream, we only saw his POV. It was also an awful portrayal of kids who come from divorced homes. I know lots of people, my mother included, who YES they have issues because they come from a broken home but not to the extremes written in this book.
I'm a Christian and I didn't like the overall preachiness of this story. It annoyed me more than inspired me.
What I did like about this book was the Christmas Carol vibes, but even that wasn't executed as well as Dickens' story.
November 28, 2018
I was excited to get a copy of When We Were Young through NetGalley, and I just finished it over the weekend. I read it in a matter of hours because I couldn't put it down.
First of all, this book had a plot that I've never seen before. I don't want to get into any spoilers, of course, but it portrayed the future while keeping firmly rooted into the past as well as the present, through the use of several characters. You knew what "time-travel" section you'd be in based off of which character the chapter was highlighting, which helped to clarify any confusion. The entire book, basically, occurs over the span of one night - just while highlighting what the future might be like and how the couple met in the first place. I'm probably over-explaining it -- it was easy to understand but hard to explain. I likened it to the "ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future" deal. The story was a very easy read, given the plot. The story was also encouraging, in which a couple decides to make their marriage work instead of letting it fall apart.
First of all, this book had a plot that I've never seen before. I don't want to get into any spoilers, of course, but it portrayed the future while keeping firmly rooted into the past as well as the present, through the use of several characters. You knew what "time-travel" section you'd be in based off of which character the chapter was highlighting, which helped to clarify any confusion. The entire book, basically, occurs over the span of one night - just while highlighting what the future might be like and how the couple met in the first place. I'm probably over-explaining it -- it was easy to understand but hard to explain. I likened it to the "ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future" deal. The story was a very easy read, given the plot. The story was also encouraging, in which a couple decides to make their marriage work instead of letting it fall apart.
January 8, 2019
I have read pretty much all of Karen Kingsbury's books, but honestly I am about over them. I tried to love this one, I really did. Yes, I believe that divorce is wrong and that God can heal broken marriages. Do I think one apology magically fixes everything, no. This just isn't a realistic look at a marriage on the brink of divorce. And the way the boy and girl were portrayed really bothered me. Boys turn out just fine, but girls are destroyed when their parents divorce? It seems the author is more concerned about sharing how awesome her life is, and what classics her books are becoming instead of providing great God centered stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2026
This was a re-read for me & I just loved every minute of it. I got so swept up in the book I was crying several times, happy & sad tears. It’s a great story, leaves you thinking & wondering about many things.
December 21, 2023
This was a sweet story with a speculative twist which showed the risk of how social media could play a role in damaging relationships.
I enjoyed seeing through Noah how he and Emily fell in love when they Were Young and what led to the dire situation they were in now.
I enjoyed seeing through Noah how he and Emily fell in love when they Were Young and what led to the dire situation they were in now.
March 1, 2019
This was my first Karen Kingsbury book! I loved the feel of Dickens Christmas Carol this book had. It’s not a Christmas book but it kinda has that see what your life can be feel.
July 13, 2019
Read this book in a very short time. Keeps you interested until the end and turning the pages.
Positives:
I really enjoyed how the author kept switching back between the present and the future but she did it very seamlessly. I also loved how she integrated faith into the lives of the characters and didn’t just throw it in as some other authors do. I loved how she tactfully talked about the relationship of 2 in love.
Negatives:
I did not like was how the author did not delve a little deeper into the “how” we enter into a relationship with Christ. It’s hard to find books that do this but this one came closest.
As a conservative Christian reader I did not like the boyfriend /girlfriend philosophy between the two Christians in this book. Though they do not cross the ultimate line and even talk about saving that for marriage, they do get involved on an intimate level that should also be reserved for marriage as the Bible teaches in 1 Corinthians 7:1-2.
Overall I enjoyed the story and the message and would read more from this author.
Positives:
I really enjoyed how the author kept switching back between the present and the future but she did it very seamlessly. I also loved how she integrated faith into the lives of the characters and didn’t just throw it in as some other authors do. I loved how she tactfully talked about the relationship of 2 in love.
Negatives:
I did not like was how the author did not delve a little deeper into the “how” we enter into a relationship with Christ. It’s hard to find books that do this but this one came closest.
As a conservative Christian reader I did not like the boyfriend /girlfriend philosophy between the two Christians in this book. Though they do not cross the ultimate line and even talk about saving that for marriage, they do get involved on an intimate level that should also be reserved for marriage as the Bible teaches in 1 Corinthians 7:1-2.
Overall I enjoyed the story and the message and would read more from this author.
June 18, 2019
I’ve read nearly every Baxter family book. I really enjoyed the first 5 in the Redemption Series but since then I get annoyed and irritated at the author’s fascination with fame. Whether it is a Hollywood actor, professional athlete, or someone who is “Internet famous” like Noah in this book, I would much rather read a book about a real, down to earth person, who is more concerned with living a simple life than someone aiming for fame.
But I keep reading books by Karen Kingsbury because, at the end of the day, they leave me encouraged to be a better person. This particular book had hints of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. I loved Clara’s character and Emily’s loyalty to her. Overall, it was an okay read but I walked away feeling like I want to be a better mom and wife, so that is worth something.
But I keep reading books by Karen Kingsbury because, at the end of the day, they leave me encouraged to be a better person. This particular book had hints of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. I loved Clara’s character and Emily’s loyalty to her. Overall, it was an okay read but I walked away feeling like I want to be a better mom and wife, so that is worth something.
April 22, 2023
I thought this book was really sweet and presented a powerful message. It was so striking to read the "flashback" parts when Emily and Noah were first falling in love against the backdrop of their marriage falling apart. I didn't really find the love story to be that cheesy; it may have had some moments, but I thought it was portrayed realistically. I could really feel what the characters were feeling as I read. I loved the character of Clara, too. Both main characters' relationships with her were so tender, and I thought it was so special how her influence played a role in bringing them together not just once but twice.
Despite the explanation of his concussion, I thought the plot would have been better served if Noah retained his memory of the marital troubles during his "dreams." There were also a couple points in which I didn't quite agree with the theology.
Despite the explanation of his concussion, I thought the plot would have been better served if Noah retained his memory of the marital troubles during his "dreams." There were also a couple points in which I didn't quite agree with the theology.
October 16, 2018
Wow. What a powerful story.
This hits close to home as I was in Noah and Emily’s shoes as one point. Ready to call it quits on my marriage, believing all was lost.
I like how Karen touches on the subject of social media. It can almost become an obsession and we can find our value in it. It seems that might be what happened with Noah.
The characters are well developed and you will come to care for them.
I also enjoyed meeting up with some of the Baxter family as well.
If you love Karen’s book you will enjoy this one, her heart-wrenching style is in this book and you might shed a tear or two (or more).
A copy of this book was given to my through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.
This hits close to home as I was in Noah and Emily’s shoes as one point. Ready to call it quits on my marriage, believing all was lost.
I like how Karen touches on the subject of social media. It can almost become an obsession and we can find our value in it. It seems that might be what happened with Noah.
The characters are well developed and you will come to care for them.
I also enjoyed meeting up with some of the Baxter family as well.
If you love Karen’s book you will enjoy this one, her heart-wrenching style is in this book and you might shed a tear or two (or more).
A copy of this book was given to my through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2024
Ugh. Good read, but such a hard message when you exist in the world I do. "divorce isn't an option" is a horrible thing to have a woman hear when she's being abused. Sometimes divorce is the best option to protect life. God wants to protect life over law. I get that this is a message for those who are just tired of their partner, but 50 % of divorce's are a result of traumatic events (whether abuse, alcoholism, or adultery) so with this kind of statistic, I think we need to take "divorce isn't an option" OFF the table!!!
God HATES evil, and oftentimes divorce will stop the evil from hurting his children. It's allowed for the "hardness of man's heart" so let's start preaching that message!!
God HATES evil, and oftentimes divorce will stop the evil from hurting his children. It's allowed for the "hardness of man's heart" so let's start preaching that message!!
September 27, 2021
This was the best book. I read it in one sitting. If you are lifelong readers of the Baxter family, you will love seeing how everyone is. This can also be read as a stand alone. The internet has taken over one couples relationship. On the first page is the last day they spend together before the husband moves out. When he begins to keep waking up at different time frames, will he like what he sees as his wide and children age? It makes you think about what really goes on in a marriage and what Instagram and Facebook can do to a couple if they let it.
October 15, 2018
What if you could get a glimpse of how your decision tomorrow changed your future?
What if you could see your past play out to bring back good memories?
This is what Karen Kingsbury's newest hit novel does! It's a story of love and heartache. A story that makes you question how you spend your time building your relationships.
You will not be disappointed by this beautiful, story of Noah and Emily. Plus you get a glimpse of some past Baxter family members! Be sure to have some tissues nearby for some heartwarming moments that make you feel as if you actually know the characters.
What if you could see your past play out to bring back good memories?
This is what Karen Kingsbury's newest hit novel does! It's a story of love and heartache. A story that makes you question how you spend your time building your relationships.
You will not be disappointed by this beautiful, story of Noah and Emily. Plus you get a glimpse of some past Baxter family members! Be sure to have some tissues nearby for some heartwarming moments that make you feel as if you actually know the characters.
July 22, 2022
I liked the book, but it wasn’t my favorite book of all time. It had drama but the book was mostly the characters recounting their story which was a little boring. I felt Kari was sort of being a victim because the book wasn’t about her. However I understand her family is part of the Karen Kingsbury books.
I felt she did a good job of giving an expected ending yet unexpected ending. It’s a great book just not my exact preference.
I felt she did a good job of giving an expected ending yet unexpected ending. It’s a great book just not my exact preference.
March 30, 2021
I've never read any of the Baxter family stories before, but I was hooked from the first word and I couldn't put this book down, even if I had wanted to (which I didn't). The words flow off of every page and draw you in. This is a beautiful story that will make you believe in love again and the power of prayer. Just because something is broken, doesn't mean that God can't fix it. Read this with a box of tissues nearby; there will be sad and happy tears as you journey with Noah and Emily.
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