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The Note #1
The Note
The note changed everything...
One very ordinary day, Maya Flowers sees a new commuter board her train to London, and suddenly the day isn't ordinary at all. Maya knows immediately and irrevocably, that he is The One.
But the beautiful man on the train always has his head in a book and never seems to notice Maya sitting just down the carriage from him every day. Eventually, though, inspired by a very wise friend, Maya plucks up the courage to give the stranger a note asking him out for a drink. Afterall, what's the worst that can happen?
And so begins a story of sliding doors, missed opportunities and finding happiness where you least expect it.
Based on the author's true story, The Note is an uplifting, life-affirming reminder that taking a chance can change everything...
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 668 reviews
May 8, 2018
ARC requested through Netgalley, and kindly provided by Aria in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book while on vacation in August. I considered not writing this review because I love reading works by new authors and I don’t ever want to discourage that when my opinions are negative.
I was very excited to read this book. I loved the premise - “a story of sliding doors, missed opportunities and finding happiness where you least expect it.” These kinds of stories are usually my thing. Maya saw “Train Guy” every day on the train but never had the courage to approach him, until one day, she gave him a note, starting the story.
I had very mixed feelings about this book. I had some issues with the writing and plot that made it hard for me to get through it. On the one hand, I really wanted to get on board with where the author was going but I suppose, even though I finally got engaged at the 75% mark, I wasn’t buying what was being sold.
My issues with this book boiled down to the following:
1. The writing style - This story was told in present tense, third person. As a result, I never really got to see under the hood of any of the characters. I was told what was happening and nothing more. At no point did I really get a sense for what was going on in Maya’s or Train Guy’s head. I feel like this story would have worked better as a movie script. It didn’t work well as a novel. The absolute OVERABUNDANCE of description was also very annoying. Every time we entered a new scene/location, the reader got thirty pages describing every person in the scene, their history, a full description of the furniture and setting and so much extra information that I didn’t feel added to the Maya’s story. Despite all of the really long, descriptive scenes, not a lot actually happened and there were large gaps in between plot points, making it even more difficult to engage in the story or feel any emotional connection at all.
2. The way the “love at first sight” trope was used - I usually LOVE this type of story. Throw in the “sliding doors” aspect and I’m sold. For this story, though, it didn’t work for me because all of the the missed opportunities happen AFTER Maya first sees Train Guy and falls for him. It would have been better if we got to see their stories unfold separately and then they came together at the end. Instead, Maya obsessed over this person she had never met for over a year to an unhealthy degree. After that much time, without actually knowing anything about a person, any “feelings” are made up fantasies in your head and you’ve now slipped into creepy, unhealthy stalker mode. I just couldn’t get on board with “he’s the one” after so much time had passed without her even speaking to him.
3. The number of characters in the book - seriously. SO. MANY. CHARACTERS. And not just supporting characters. Out of the blue we were introduced to Simon and Catherine, with NO CONTEXT, and it is quite some time before we even find out who the heck they are in relation to the rest of the story. It was so bizarre.
4. The odd references and extreme details - several times in the story, flashbacks into Maya’s past showed a passage of time by describing "When Maya's hair turned wavy”, which I just didn’t understand. What does that mean? Who knows, because we were never told.
All this is to say that the story didn’t work for me.
I read this book while on vacation in August. I considered not writing this review because I love reading works by new authors and I don’t ever want to discourage that when my opinions are negative.
I was very excited to read this book. I loved the premise - “a story of sliding doors, missed opportunities and finding happiness where you least expect it.” These kinds of stories are usually my thing. Maya saw “Train Guy” every day on the train but never had the courage to approach him, until one day, she gave him a note, starting the story.
I had very mixed feelings about this book. I had some issues with the writing and plot that made it hard for me to get through it. On the one hand, I really wanted to get on board with where the author was going but I suppose, even though I finally got engaged at the 75% mark, I wasn’t buying what was being sold.
My issues with this book boiled down to the following:
1. The writing style - This story was told in present tense, third person. As a result, I never really got to see under the hood of any of the characters. I was told what was happening and nothing more. At no point did I really get a sense for what was going on in Maya’s or Train Guy’s head. I feel like this story would have worked better as a movie script. It didn’t work well as a novel. The absolute OVERABUNDANCE of description was also very annoying. Every time we entered a new scene/location, the reader got thirty pages describing every person in the scene, their history, a full description of the furniture and setting and so much extra information that I didn’t feel added to the Maya’s story. Despite all of the really long, descriptive scenes, not a lot actually happened and there were large gaps in between plot points, making it even more difficult to engage in the story or feel any emotional connection at all.
2. The way the “love at first sight” trope was used - I usually LOVE this type of story. Throw in the “sliding doors” aspect and I’m sold. For this story, though, it didn’t work for me because all of the the missed opportunities happen AFTER Maya first sees Train Guy and falls for him. It would have been better if we got to see their stories unfold separately and then they came together at the end. Instead, Maya obsessed over this person she had never met for over a year to an unhealthy degree. After that much time, without actually knowing anything about a person, any “feelings” are made up fantasies in your head and you’ve now slipped into creepy, unhealthy stalker mode. I just couldn’t get on board with “he’s the one” after so much time had passed without her even speaking to him.
3. The number of characters in the book - seriously. SO. MANY. CHARACTERS. And not just supporting characters. Out of the blue we were introduced to Simon and Catherine, with NO CONTEXT, and it is quite some time before we even find out who the heck they are in relation to the rest of the story. It was so bizarre.
4. The odd references and extreme details - several times in the story, flashbacks into Maya’s past showed a passage of time by describing "When Maya's hair turned wavy”, which I just didn’t understand. What does that mean? Who knows, because we were never told.
All this is to say that the story didn’t work for me.
September 26, 2017
I love a good ChickLit book every so often. I truly loved the idea and premise of this story and I was so excited to get this one. I dislike giving negative reviews. I understand this is a debut novel and I think perhaps with some tweaking this could be a pretty good story. However I just could not get into this one very much. The writing was a bit awkward at times. Lots of people were being introduced and I couldn't quite understand how they belonged or fitted into the story. I wanted to root for the main characters but this story just left me kind of dry.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Aria books with allowing me the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader's copy.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Aria books with allowing me the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader's copy.
February 14, 2020
I love reading new authors especially if I’ve enjoyed the book, and this one does not disappoint. It is very sweet and engaging and keeps you interested in how things will turn out. I am so excited by this author I have bought the next in this series The Postcard and also The Mission which isn’t related to the other two but I wanted it anyway.
This was such a gentle story and I really wanted things to turn out ok for Maya in the end. I kept thinking of the film Brief Encounter as I read it which is one of my favourite films.
If you want a lovely, gentle story with a happy ending then this one is for you.
This was such a gentle story and I really wanted things to turn out ok for Maya in the end. I kept thinking of the film Brief Encounter as I read it which is one of my favourite films.
If you want a lovely, gentle story with a happy ending then this one is for you.
June 2, 2025
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April 14, 2018
3.5 stars!
Funny story for you readers, I was browsing through one of my social media feeds and saw an interview about this book on the UK daytime programme This Morning. After winning a copy of The Note in a Twitter giveaway from a few months back, I needed a quick romance fix so decided to pick up this as the sun set (which sounds like a novel within itself!)
This is inspired by a real-life romance between two commuters which definitely gave me all the feels. It revolves around a single note that the main character Maya who works in fashion, writes to give to a fellow commuter James who works in accounting. During this time, both have their busy lives but somehow, their paths keep crossing. Throughout the story, we witness freelance photography and the brutal realities of the fashion industry. Set in London, I enjoyed the references to places featured since it is a city that I've grown up with (family background). There were a lot of characters mentioned throughout so I often had to go back and re-read passages since I wasn't sure who was who. The pacing did start to drag towards the end but I still finished the book with a smile. I'm happy that I got the chance to read a copy of The Note since it has been on my TBR for a long while. Overall, it was good but was let down by amount of characters and struggling with character connection. I am only nineteen and haven't experienced some of the references that are made such as writing for a newspaper (which I would like to do in the future however!)
Funny story for you readers, I was browsing through one of my social media feeds and saw an interview about this book on the UK daytime programme This Morning. After winning a copy of The Note in a Twitter giveaway from a few months back, I needed a quick romance fix so decided to pick up this as the sun set (which sounds like a novel within itself!)
This is inspired by a real-life romance between two commuters which definitely gave me all the feels. It revolves around a single note that the main character Maya who works in fashion, writes to give to a fellow commuter James who works in accounting. During this time, both have their busy lives but somehow, their paths keep crossing. Throughout the story, we witness freelance photography and the brutal realities of the fashion industry. Set in London, I enjoyed the references to places featured since it is a city that I've grown up with (family background). There were a lot of characters mentioned throughout so I often had to go back and re-read passages since I wasn't sure who was who. The pacing did start to drag towards the end but I still finished the book with a smile. I'm happy that I got the chance to read a copy of The Note since it has been on my TBR for a long while. Overall, it was good but was let down by amount of characters and struggling with character connection. I am only nineteen and haven't experienced some of the references that are made such as writing for a newspaper (which I would like to do in the future however!)
October 14, 2018
Having just had my heart broken I am approaching all romance with caution right now, emotions being high the last thing I need is to crumble into a ball, hide under my duvet and think why not me? This book was left on my doorstep by my landlady as her way of saying “it will be ok”. I am glad she did.
So my present state of mind, any hint of romance I have to do my best to squish down that ugly rearing head of cynicism in me, however this book is written in the most genuine and relatable way and I’ve come out on the other side with dare I say it, hope. Every character came to life in my mind, all totally convincing, all at different stages in their lives. The book spans across a genuine time period proving sometimes it just takes a little time. I was totally captivated my Maya, wholeheartedly rooting for her to win the guy, and I have come away with the message that sometimes in life if you want something you have to go get it. Take life by the horns, don’t wallow in self pity, do what makes you happy.
As you can probably tell I am a little taken by the book, at first I was unsure, it all felt a bit clumsy in the beginning, too many characters being introduced with not really much detail. However, I did find myself wanting to read more and by the end I was totally on page with every character. It really is a lovely warm comforting book. I cried, I laughed, I had lots of “go on girl” moments. The fact this is based on a true story is literally the icing on the cake. Now to reluctantly return the book and profusely thank my landlady for giving me a pick me up.
So my present state of mind, any hint of romance I have to do my best to squish down that ugly rearing head of cynicism in me, however this book is written in the most genuine and relatable way and I’ve come out on the other side with dare I say it, hope. Every character came to life in my mind, all totally convincing, all at different stages in their lives. The book spans across a genuine time period proving sometimes it just takes a little time. I was totally captivated my Maya, wholeheartedly rooting for her to win the guy, and I have come away with the message that sometimes in life if you want something you have to go get it. Take life by the horns, don’t wallow in self pity, do what makes you happy.
As you can probably tell I am a little taken by the book, at first I was unsure, it all felt a bit clumsy in the beginning, too many characters being introduced with not really much detail. However, I did find myself wanting to read more and by the end I was totally on page with every character. It really is a lovely warm comforting book. I cried, I laughed, I had lots of “go on girl” moments. The fact this is based on a true story is literally the icing on the cake. Now to reluctantly return the book and profusely thank my landlady for giving me a pick me up.
January 27, 2019
I thought I was going to love The Note. It’s heroine, Maya, works for a fashion company and has the most amazing job.
I could have read a whole book about her technicolour career at FASH, her brilliant marketing campaigns, the outfits she put together with her 40% staff discount, her methods for naming the individual clothes and accessories….
Unfortunately, after this brilliant start there was a lot of slightly stalkerish stuff about a man on the train who she fell instantly in love with. And his boring relationship. And her fabulous friend. And some woman who was having an affair and I suspect was the love-interest’s girlfriend but I couldn’t be bothered to read on to find out...
I could have read a whole book about her technicolour career at FASH, her brilliant marketing campaigns, the outfits she put together with her 40% staff discount, her methods for naming the individual clothes and accessories….
Unfortunately, after this brilliant start there was a lot of slightly stalkerish stuff about a man on the train who she fell instantly in love with. And his boring relationship. And her fabulous friend. And some woman who was having an affair and I suspect was the love-interest’s girlfriend but I couldn’t be bothered to read on to find out...
September 13, 2017
Super cute story about a girls day to day, working at a Fashion house, fancying a guy on her commuter train and working up the courage to pursue him and changing her life.
I really liked the writing, not as refined as, but reminded me of the voices of (book: Me before you) and (book: The readers of the broken wheel recommends). Those are two of my favorite heart warmers, so that is definitely a compliment.
I did struggle with the over use of her name: Maya did, Maya said, Maya thought.. And the romance could have had a good bit more fire in it and sparked earlier.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance of reviewing it.
I really liked the writing, not as refined as, but reminded me of the voices of (book: Me before you) and (book: The readers of the broken wheel recommends). Those are two of my favorite heart warmers, so that is definitely a compliment.
I did struggle with the over use of her name: Maya did, Maya said, Maya thought.. And the romance could have had a good bit more fire in it and sparked earlier.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance of reviewing it.
September 9, 2017
The Note by Zoe Folbigg a thought provoking five-star read. This is such a well written and thought provoking read. I loved that it’s based on the authors story. It took me a few weeks to get round to reading this book, as I seemed to get inundated with a ton all at the same time, probably should plan better next time. But I am so glad I did read it, there were a couple of reviews about how the found it hard to read and took a while to get into to, I don’t know why. I enjoyed it from the beginning, but I am a huge believer in fate and missed chances so maybe that’s why the premise called to me so much. I had a moment like this a lot of years ago and it’s something I have never forgotten so I know why Maya gave the note. If you have ever had a moment with someone you need to read this story. It may be the thing that gives you the confidence to pass a note of your own. Maya was brave would you be that brave? Also, James was reading on a train, that makes him a man to jump on in my eyes. (I love me a man who is widely read)
Zoe Folbigg is an author I haven’t read previously but I will definitely be looking her up again.
Zoe Folbigg is an author I haven’t read previously but I will definitely be looking her up again.
November 16, 2017
dnf at 8%
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Stories of missed opportunities are my favorites, and while this book holds a potential (that premise is so cute!), eventually the writing style just doesn't fit. For a book that's supposed to be a romance, in the first 8% we got an awful lot of description. Everytime we meet a new character, we got a tons of description of how do they look, what are they wearing, where do they sit, how do they know the characters, their position, their characters, their history, and so on and so on. When we first get into FASH, we got a layout of who sits where, what the blonde secretary doing and what she's browsing, the layout of the meeting room, where the canteen is, and how the company revolutionize online shopping.
It's just too much description eventually, feels like info dumping and distract me from the story.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Stories of missed opportunities are my favorites, and while this book holds a potential (that premise is so cute!), eventually the writing style just doesn't fit. For a book that's supposed to be a romance, in the first 8% we got an awful lot of description. Everytime we meet a new character, we got a tons of description of how do they look, what are they wearing, where do they sit, how do they know the characters, their position, their characters, their history, and so on and so on. When we first get into FASH, we got a layout of who sits where, what the blonde secretary doing and what she's browsing, the layout of the meeting room, where the canteen is, and how the company revolutionize online shopping.
It's just too much description eventually, feels like info dumping and distract me from the story.
November 28, 2019
The anticipation fizzled out gradually and became exasperating as plotted scenes became inevitably boring. It was difficult to digest how the protagonist kept rejecting real solid men who failed to hold a candle against an uninterested committed stranger on a train?!? Recommended only for hopeless romantics.
July 16, 2023
There needs to be an option for 0 zero stars.
This book is terribly boring and has the most mundane descriptions. Each character, regardless of how minor they are, is described in detail. From the way they dress, to their little quirks and all their personality traits. The first 3 chapters are almost all about the place where Maya works and her co workers, and the whole floor plan of the office. It was so boring. The author kept repeating the name of the workplace "FASH" and it was just grating on my nerves. Plus, the descriptions were so weird.
She's seen that shade of brown before. The seventy per cent cocoa solids that bring together the two shells of a Plantation Paineiras chocolate macaron that she saw in a shop window in Paris.
The elfin-looking girl hands Simon his newspaper.
But Maya's eyes eyes look so bright, Nena can see orange blossom shards floating amongst praline pools.
The third one straight up sounds like diarrhoea. Just a few amongst the extremely weird, unnecessary descriptions written.
The main character, Maya Flowers, is shown to be absolutely perfect. The author keeps introducing weird little snippets to her persona throughout the book. There is a mention of when Maya's hair went wavy, and how she has a "Super Memory" and "seeing future skills" and just a shit ton of random quirks thrown in. Plus, the whole plot is nothing? She has an obsession with a guy she commutes with on the train and ends up handing him a note after which they get together. That is the whole story. That is it. The rest of the book is just random characters and half-finished character arcs. Also, the chapters written from James' (the train guy whatever) contribute nothing to the story. He is being badly treated by his girlfriend Kittie, and he is stuck in a job he hates.
Also, some of the tropes this book heavily uses:
1) Housewives are naive, incapable, and live in their own bubble. Maya's sister is portrayed like this.
Clara wouldn't know how to dress for a date, she can't bake a birthday cake without it looking like Henry made it, and she doesn't know the shortcut from the Victoria Line to the Bakerloo Line at Oxford Circus.
2) "Exotic" best friend who all the men fall for, and she has multiple flings going on at the same time. Also, she has a quirky job working as a clown for children's birthdays during the day and a dancer at night. ALSO, she is scared of stickers??
Dark skin that made it impossible to detect her ethnicity: was she Latin or Indian or Carribean?
Nena always has at least three boyfriends on the go, At the moment she is seeing Tony, the leading man in the West End's biggest show; Darius, a waiter from her favorite Camden coffee shop around the corner from her flat-share; and Pete, the plumber who just did a great job in fixing her pipework.
Nena is scared of stickers and won't ever eat fruit in case a gluey Cape, Enza or Del Monte logo touches her.
3) This was the most annoying one. All the women were so freaking dainty and small and delicate.
The girl giggles and puts a thin, delicate hand to a small mouth, knowing what he's trying to do.
'Erm, no!' she laughs, holding a sweet hand to a delicate nose.
Florian and his girlfriend Rose, a meek and shy flower if there ever was one.
These are all about different women.
The book sucked. 0 stars. I had to finish it because I was reading it for a book challenge and could not leave it halfway. But it absolutely sucked.
This book is terribly boring and has the most mundane descriptions. Each character, regardless of how minor they are, is described in detail. From the way they dress, to their little quirks and all their personality traits. The first 3 chapters are almost all about the place where Maya works and her co workers, and the whole floor plan of the office. It was so boring. The author kept repeating the name of the workplace "FASH" and it was just grating on my nerves. Plus, the descriptions were so weird.
She's seen that shade of brown before. The seventy per cent cocoa solids that bring together the two shells of a Plantation Paineiras chocolate macaron that she saw in a shop window in Paris.
The elfin-looking girl hands Simon his newspaper.
But Maya's eyes eyes look so bright, Nena can see orange blossom shards floating amongst praline pools.
The third one straight up sounds like diarrhoea. Just a few amongst the extremely weird, unnecessary descriptions written.
The main character, Maya Flowers, is shown to be absolutely perfect. The author keeps introducing weird little snippets to her persona throughout the book. There is a mention of when Maya's hair went wavy, and how she has a "Super Memory" and "seeing future skills" and just a shit ton of random quirks thrown in. Plus, the whole plot is nothing? She has an obsession with a guy she commutes with on the train and ends up handing him a note after which they get together. That is the whole story. That is it. The rest of the book is just random characters and half-finished character arcs. Also, the chapters written from James' (the train guy whatever) contribute nothing to the story. He is being badly treated by his girlfriend Kittie, and he is stuck in a job he hates.
Also, some of the tropes this book heavily uses:
1) Housewives are naive, incapable, and live in their own bubble. Maya's sister is portrayed like this.
Clara wouldn't know how to dress for a date, she can't bake a birthday cake without it looking like Henry made it, and she doesn't know the shortcut from the Victoria Line to the Bakerloo Line at Oxford Circus.
2) "Exotic" best friend who all the men fall for, and she has multiple flings going on at the same time. Also, she has a quirky job working as a clown for children's birthdays during the day and a dancer at night. ALSO, she is scared of stickers??
Dark skin that made it impossible to detect her ethnicity: was she Latin or Indian or Carribean?
Nena always has at least three boyfriends on the go, At the moment she is seeing Tony, the leading man in the West End's biggest show; Darius, a waiter from her favorite Camden coffee shop around the corner from her flat-share; and Pete, the plumber who just did a great job in fixing her pipework.
Nena is scared of stickers and won't ever eat fruit in case a gluey Cape, Enza or Del Monte logo touches her.
3) This was the most annoying one. All the women were so freaking dainty and small and delicate.
The girl giggles and puts a thin, delicate hand to a small mouth, knowing what he's trying to do.
'Erm, no!' she laughs, holding a sweet hand to a delicate nose.
Florian and his girlfriend Rose, a meek and shy flower if there ever was one.
These are all about different women.
The book sucked. 0 stars. I had to finish it because I was reading it for a book challenge and could not leave it halfway. But it absolutely sucked.
December 24, 2017
Dreary and predictable
The premise drew me and I still think it would make a good film in the right hands with someone different writing the screen play .
I don't like chic lit , however I persevered hopefully. Oh dear, it is a taste thing but Maya Flowers name set my teeth on edge,then I found myself grinding them at 'when her hair went wavy',Maya squeaks, baking,Kitty /Catherine,killing mice, Velma(horribly underwritten device) James 'seeing people', ghastly Nena , fashion world cliche cliche,Cressida,Train Man,aaaaaaah ,I did throw my precious kindle a couple of times . You can see it coming and yet it also manages to trundle on and on like the train they travel on. It's so unfortunate that James is reading great books on his commute, so you get a regular reminder of what a good novel can be. Couldn't there have been more of their relationship and less of the lumpen build up with all the clumsy hitches.
Zoe forget Barbara Cartland ,derail the 'rules' of romance , throw it in the air next time, there were a couple of promising moments when I thought something interesting was about to happen, reread the Road and do better. At least you did finish a novel and get published ,props for that.
The premise drew me and I still think it would make a good film in the right hands with someone different writing the screen play .
I don't like chic lit , however I persevered hopefully. Oh dear, it is a taste thing but Maya Flowers name set my teeth on edge,then I found myself grinding them at 'when her hair went wavy',Maya squeaks, baking,Kitty /Catherine,killing mice, Velma(horribly underwritten device) James 'seeing people', ghastly Nena , fashion world cliche cliche,Cressida,Train Man,aaaaaaah ,I did throw my precious kindle a couple of times . You can see it coming and yet it also manages to trundle on and on like the train they travel on. It's so unfortunate that James is reading great books on his commute, so you get a regular reminder of what a good novel can be. Couldn't there have been more of their relationship and less of the lumpen build up with all the clumsy hitches.
Zoe forget Barbara Cartland ,derail the 'rules' of romance , throw it in the air next time, there were a couple of promising moments when I thought something interesting was about to happen, reread the Road and do better. At least you did finish a novel and get published ,props for that.
September 21, 2020
מיה מתאהבת בגבר זר ברכבת, ולבסוף אוזרת אומץ ונותנת לו פתק שבו היא מציעה לו ליצור איתה קשר. זה הלב של הספר הזה. העלילה לא מתפתחת הרבה מעבר למשפט הזה. חצי ספר עוסק בכל ההתלבטויות של מיה עד שנתנה את הפתק, וחצי ספר עוסק בכל מה שעובר על מיה לאחר שנתנה את הפתק. וכן, זה טיפה משעמם בדיוק כמו שזה נשמע.
בתחילת הספר מוצגות המון דמויות שלחלקן תפקיד מאוד שולי בעלילה. לי היה מאוד קשה לעקוב ולזכור מי זה מי. בערך ב-2/3 הספר התחלתי להכיר את הדמויות ואז גם הספר התחיל לזרום לי.
על גב הספר נכתב שהעלילה היא בסגנון "דלתות מסתובבות" . ובכן, היא לא. לכתוב ספר שבו הגיבורים הראשיים מחמיצים זה את זה שוב ושוב זו לא עלילה בסגנון "דלתות מסתובבות" אלא זו עלילה טיפה מייגעת שעוסקת בעיקר בהחמצה.
נתתי 2 כוכבים רק בגלל שלקראת סופו הספר התחיל לרוץ ולעניין.
בתחילת הספר מוצגות המון דמויות שלחלקן תפקיד מאוד שולי בעלילה. לי היה מאוד קשה לעקוב ולזכור מי זה מי. בערך ב-2/3 הספר התחלתי להכיר את הדמויות ואז גם הספר התחיל לזרום לי.
על גב הספר נכתב שהעלילה היא בסגנון "דלתות מסתובבות" . ובכן, היא לא. לכתוב ספר שבו הגיבורים הראשיים מחמיצים זה את זה שוב ושוב זו לא עלילה בסגנון "דלתות מסתובבות" אלא זו עלילה טיפה מייגעת שעוסקת בעיקר בהחמצה.
נתתי 2 כוכבים רק בגלל שלקראת סופו הספר התחיל לרוץ ולעניין.
May 3, 2018
Oh dear. I think it’s easy to tell what I thought of this from the rating. This is writing by rote, reporting style rather than descriptive. It was a bit like a join the dots drawing that children do and equally dull. We got a blow by blow account of several relationships which bored the pants of me. The characters were fluffy and ridiculous and precious little happens. I skimmed it as life is way too short. 😱
September 30, 2019
I’ve had this on my Kindle for ages so thought it was about time to read it. I found it really hard to get into, I thought the characters very one dimensional. As the story progressed it did improve but I was tempted to abandon it several times. I’ve already bought the sequel so will read that next hoping that the improvement continues.
September 11, 2017
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The ebook I received had some major formatting issues which made it hard to become involved in the story initially. Once I pushed on I was able to ignore them but it did not really help my appreciation for the book. I loved the premise but the book did not deliver. There was so little actually about Maya and James together. I liked the character of Maya even if she was the typical too good to be true romance heroine who is good at everything (writing, backing, teaching Spanish, a compassionate friend to all). I wish the book had only been told from her perspective. The sections told from James' point of view did not really add anything to the story and the parts about Catherine I was able to figure out right away and did not fit at all. There was a lot about Maya's work place politics, the usual evil boss storyline that has been done to death and a lot about Maya's friend's romance. I just felt like there was no real direction with the story. We know how it is going to end but man did it meander getting there.
September 8, 2018
An easy to read book which doesn't take long to get going and I like that with a book. There are a little too many characters for me to get used to at first but once I know who they all are it helps to build a more in depth story. I'm not surprised Maya's highlight of her day is seeing train man (James) the morning commute is getting worse because not just an inferior train keeps turning up but the job is going downhill too. Things couldn't get much worse for Maya when Train Man has a girlfriend but when that changes and she doesn't know you are waiting to see how they meet again. Near the end James is doing something he loves when they meet again. I was cheering Maya on when she gave the best she could give to her boss (who is horrible and Lucy isn't much better). The end is sweet with James and Maya on the train facing forwards after their nightmare Christmas commute.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2019
After hearing the author talk about the story behind this book on This Morning when the book was first released I immediately wanted to read it. A heartwarming and romantic story.
Unfortunately the book didn’t reach my expectations. I found the writing to be clunky, the story dragged out. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style, in the 3rd person but also giving cryptic insights into other characters feelings and thoughts.
The book is a relatively easy ready and maybe it just wasn’t my cup of tea in terms of the style of how it was written.
Unfortunately the book didn’t reach my expectations. I found the writing to be clunky, the story dragged out. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the writing style, in the 3rd person but also giving cryptic insights into other characters feelings and thoughts.
The book is a relatively easy ready and maybe it just wasn’t my cup of tea in terms of the style of how it was written.
October 23, 2017
This was a fantastic debut novel.I really enjoyed every bit of the storyline and characters.at certain times you will know where when you read it ... I found myself shouting NO...and not in my head either ...made my hubby laugh..Thank goodness I was not reading this book on a train...Totallly recommended.
July 3, 2018
Aaaaaagh ....The main character in this book was more like a 13 year old than a 28 year old .
I was actually ready for some light chic lit but after this I realise why I usually don’t bother .
NEXT
I was actually ready for some light chic lit but after this I realise why I usually don’t bother .
NEXT
February 11, 2021
Das Cover ist schön und hat mich direkt angesprochen. Ich bin am Anfang schwer in das Buch gekommen, da der Schreibstil für mich etwas schwierig war. Zudem ist die Geschichte aus der Erzählerperspektive geschrieben womit ich nicht so recht zurecht kam.
~ Charaktere: Maya mochte ich von Anfang an. Sie ist sympathisch, klug und freundlich, aber auch etwas naiv in Bezug darauf das sie sich in nicht mal 30 Minuten verliebt hat. Trotzdem ist sie für mich in den richtigen Momenten eine mutige Protagonistin.
Velmar ist ein faszinierender Charakter. Sie ist so lebensfroh und die sich entwickelnde Freundschaft mit Maya tut beiden gut.
James war mir von Anfang leider sehr unnahbar und nicht richtig greifbar. Obwohl ich seine Sicht in seinen verschiedenen Lebenslagen mochte. Man konnte sich die beiden schlecht zusammen vorstellen.
~Handlung: Der Verlauf der Handlung war etwas ungenau und hat sich öfters mal geändert. Mal ging es sehr schnell vorran und mal etwas weniger. So hatte man das Gefühl es passiert nichts. Am Anfang weiß man nicht aus welcher Sicht die Perspektive die Geschichte erzählt wird, aber mit der Zeit wird dieses Geheimnis gelüftet. Ich mochte das Thema Mode, welches sehr gut aufgegriffen wurde unheimlich. Es hat Spaß gemacht so ein Einblick in dieses Branche zu bekommen. Man hat die positiven und negativen Seiten eines Mode Unternehmens mitbekommen. Neben dem Haupstrang der Geschichte wurden sehr viele Nebenstränge von der Autorin aufgebaut. Ihr ist es meistens gut gelungen sie ein zu binden. Außerdem werden Themen wie Freundschaft, Familie, Job, Zukunft mit ins Spiel gebracht. Was ich unglaublich toll und inspirierend fand.
~Fazit : Ein nettes Buch für zwischendurch, welches für mich einige negative Punkte hatte. Ich gebe deswegen dem Buch insgesamt 3,5/5 ⭐.
~ Charaktere: Maya mochte ich von Anfang an. Sie ist sympathisch, klug und freundlich, aber auch etwas naiv in Bezug darauf das sie sich in nicht mal 30 Minuten verliebt hat. Trotzdem ist sie für mich in den richtigen Momenten eine mutige Protagonistin.
Velmar ist ein faszinierender Charakter. Sie ist so lebensfroh und die sich entwickelnde Freundschaft mit Maya tut beiden gut.
James war mir von Anfang leider sehr unnahbar und nicht richtig greifbar. Obwohl ich seine Sicht in seinen verschiedenen Lebenslagen mochte. Man konnte sich die beiden schlecht zusammen vorstellen.
~Handlung: Der Verlauf der Handlung war etwas ungenau und hat sich öfters mal geändert. Mal ging es sehr schnell vorran und mal etwas weniger. So hatte man das Gefühl es passiert nichts. Am Anfang weiß man nicht aus welcher Sicht die Perspektive die Geschichte erzählt wird, aber mit der Zeit wird dieses Geheimnis gelüftet. Ich mochte das Thema Mode, welches sehr gut aufgegriffen wurde unheimlich. Es hat Spaß gemacht so ein Einblick in dieses Branche zu bekommen. Man hat die positiven und negativen Seiten eines Mode Unternehmens mitbekommen. Neben dem Haupstrang der Geschichte wurden sehr viele Nebenstränge von der Autorin aufgebaut. Ihr ist es meistens gut gelungen sie ein zu binden. Außerdem werden Themen wie Freundschaft, Familie, Job, Zukunft mit ins Spiel gebracht. Was ich unglaublich toll und inspirierend fand.
~Fazit : Ein nettes Buch für zwischendurch, welches für mich einige negative Punkte hatte. Ich gebe deswegen dem Buch insgesamt 3,5/5 ⭐.
February 9, 2021
Dein Erster Blick Für Immer hat mir ganz gut gefallen. Ein sehr kurzweiliger und süßer Roman über das Leben. Leider hatte ich durch das Cover und den Klappentext einen Liebesroman erwartet, über eine Frau die sich in einen Mann aus der Bahn verliebt.
Genau das passiert auch. Nur bleibt das leider über weite Strecken eine einseitige Schwärmerei. Das erste richtige Gespräch haben die beiden erst auf Seite 337 von 380, ein Punkt an dem ich die Hoffnung schon fast aufgegeben hatte.
Stattdessen folgen wir Maya bei ihrem Alltag und ihrer Arbeit bei einem Modemagazin. Dabei erhalten wir einen interessanten und (soweit ich das beurteilen kann) realistischen Einblick in die Modewelt. Auch abseits der Arbeit ist Mayas Leben durchaus interessant und erzählenswert. Nur eben frustrierend, wenn man die ganze Zeit auf eine Liebesgeschichte wartet.
Der Schreibstil ist sehr schön und leicht zu lesen. Man fliegt nur so über die Seiten und merkt gar nicht, wie viele es sind. Das einzige was mich gestört hat, waren die Perspektivenwechsel. Abgesehen von der Sicht von Maya und dem Bahn-Mann werden plötzlich Kapitel aus der Sicht ihrer besten Freundin eingeschoben oder aus der Sicht einer fremden anderen Frau in der Bahn. Das fand ich verwirrend und für den Erzählstrang nicht unbendingt nötig.
Insgesamt erhält man also einen schönen, leichten Roman, der einen Einblick in das Leben einer interessanten Persönlichkeit gewährt. Nur sollte man kein großes Herzklopfen erwarten. Eher ein Roman für einen gemütlichen Sonntagnachmittag 😊
Genau das passiert auch. Nur bleibt das leider über weite Strecken eine einseitige Schwärmerei. Das erste richtige Gespräch haben die beiden erst auf Seite 337 von 380, ein Punkt an dem ich die Hoffnung schon fast aufgegeben hatte.
Stattdessen folgen wir Maya bei ihrem Alltag und ihrer Arbeit bei einem Modemagazin. Dabei erhalten wir einen interessanten und (soweit ich das beurteilen kann) realistischen Einblick in die Modewelt. Auch abseits der Arbeit ist Mayas Leben durchaus interessant und erzählenswert. Nur eben frustrierend, wenn man die ganze Zeit auf eine Liebesgeschichte wartet.
Der Schreibstil ist sehr schön und leicht zu lesen. Man fliegt nur so über die Seiten und merkt gar nicht, wie viele es sind. Das einzige was mich gestört hat, waren die Perspektivenwechsel. Abgesehen von der Sicht von Maya und dem Bahn-Mann werden plötzlich Kapitel aus der Sicht ihrer besten Freundin eingeschoben oder aus der Sicht einer fremden anderen Frau in der Bahn. Das fand ich verwirrend und für den Erzählstrang nicht unbendingt nötig.
Insgesamt erhält man also einen schönen, leichten Roman, der einen Einblick in das Leben einer interessanten Persönlichkeit gewährt. Nur sollte man kein großes Herzklopfen erwarten. Eher ein Roman für einen gemütlichen Sonntagnachmittag 😊
December 5, 2017
Cover
Das perfekte Cover für diese Geschichte. Es bereitet schon sehr gut auf das Buch vor und hat mich sehr gut eingestimmt. Ich mag diese Art Cover sehr gerne und freue mich immer, wenn ein Verlag etwas derartiges auswählt.
Meine Meinung
Gleich zu Beginn möchte ich sagen, dass diese Geschichte wohl auf der Kennenlern-Geschichte der Autorin und ihres Mannes basiert. Das wusste ich vor dem Lesen, weil ich das Buch durch einen Artikel, der genau zu diesem Thema war, entdeckt habe.
Maya sieht in jeden Tag. Den schönsten Mann, der seinen Kopf tief in einem Buch vergraben hat und die ganze Ubahnfahrt völlig abwesend wirkt. Es ist jetzt nicht so, als würde sie ihn stalken oder dauerhaft beobachten, aber er fällt ihr auf und irgendwie kann ich sie da sehr gut verstehen. Wenn man jeden Tag mit dem gleichen Zug fährt, dann sieht man automatisch immer die gleichen Menschen unabhängig davon, ob man sie nun attraktiv findet oder nicht.
Eigentlich dachte ich, ich würde diese Geschichte vielleicht etwas an den Haaren herbeigezogen finden, aber das war überhaupt nicht so. Es war tatsächlich eine wirklich romantische Geschichte, die mich sehr begeistern konnte.
Die Hindernisse der beiden Figuren werden sehr glaubwürdig dargestellt und haben mich mit in die Verzweiflung gerissen. Ich habe regelrecht mitgefiebert und den beiden alles Glück der Welt gewünscht. Die verpassten Gelegenheiten haben mich als außenstehende Person beinahe verrückt gemacht.
Die Romantik und auch die Tragik in dieser Geschichte haben die Idee definitiv weit getragen. Im ersten Moment musste ich an ein anderes Buch denken, dessen Titel mir leider nicht mehr einfällt. Am Ende war es sich aber doch gar nicht so ähnlich, wie ich gedacht hatte.
Der Autorin gelingt es auf eine unverkennbare Weise diese Geschichte zu erzählen. Sie ist sehr lieb, trotzdem aufregend und einfach nur romantisch. Definitiv etwas für schöne, entspannte Abende, an denen man sich einfach in einer Geschichte verlieren möchte. Genau dafür ist diese auch besonders gut geeignet. Von mir gibt es vier von fünf möglichen Monstern für eine tolle Liebesgeschichte, die mich überzeugen und auch begeistern konnte.
Mehr Rezensionen auf meinem Blog Valaraucos-Buchstabenmeer
Das perfekte Cover für diese Geschichte. Es bereitet schon sehr gut auf das Buch vor und hat mich sehr gut eingestimmt. Ich mag diese Art Cover sehr gerne und freue mich immer, wenn ein Verlag etwas derartiges auswählt.
Meine Meinung
Gleich zu Beginn möchte ich sagen, dass diese Geschichte wohl auf der Kennenlern-Geschichte der Autorin und ihres Mannes basiert. Das wusste ich vor dem Lesen, weil ich das Buch durch einen Artikel, der genau zu diesem Thema war, entdeckt habe.
Maya sieht in jeden Tag. Den schönsten Mann, der seinen Kopf tief in einem Buch vergraben hat und die ganze Ubahnfahrt völlig abwesend wirkt. Es ist jetzt nicht so, als würde sie ihn stalken oder dauerhaft beobachten, aber er fällt ihr auf und irgendwie kann ich sie da sehr gut verstehen. Wenn man jeden Tag mit dem gleichen Zug fährt, dann sieht man automatisch immer die gleichen Menschen unabhängig davon, ob man sie nun attraktiv findet oder nicht.
Eigentlich dachte ich, ich würde diese Geschichte vielleicht etwas an den Haaren herbeigezogen finden, aber das war überhaupt nicht so. Es war tatsächlich eine wirklich romantische Geschichte, die mich sehr begeistern konnte.
Die Hindernisse der beiden Figuren werden sehr glaubwürdig dargestellt und haben mich mit in die Verzweiflung gerissen. Ich habe regelrecht mitgefiebert und den beiden alles Glück der Welt gewünscht. Die verpassten Gelegenheiten haben mich als außenstehende Person beinahe verrückt gemacht.
Die Romantik und auch die Tragik in dieser Geschichte haben die Idee definitiv weit getragen. Im ersten Moment musste ich an ein anderes Buch denken, dessen Titel mir leider nicht mehr einfällt. Am Ende war es sich aber doch gar nicht so ähnlich, wie ich gedacht hatte.
Der Autorin gelingt es auf eine unverkennbare Weise diese Geschichte zu erzählen. Sie ist sehr lieb, trotzdem aufregend und einfach nur romantisch. Definitiv etwas für schöne, entspannte Abende, an denen man sich einfach in einer Geschichte verlieren möchte. Genau dafür ist diese auch besonders gut geeignet. Von mir gibt es vier von fünf möglichen Monstern für eine tolle Liebesgeschichte, die mich überzeugen und auch begeistern konnte.
Mehr Rezensionen auf meinem Blog Valaraucos-Buchstabenmeer
September 29, 2017
My Disclaimer:
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
My Review: ✰✰✰⭒
It’s a debut novel based on a true story. And it’s one that takes us around in circles for a bit. First, she’s watching him and he’s unaware of her. Then he’s the one looking. They bump into each other at a photo shoot and then there’s his old girlfriend and Maya takes off. So much of the tension of this story is whether or not the two of them with eventually get together. Well, I hadn’t read the press releases before I read the book. I’m so glad I hadn’t, too. I would have been so angry. As I said, so much of the tension is whether or not they’re going to get together. Whether or not he’s going to answer her note. Whether or not she’s going to speak to him. Whether or not they’ll ever get together again.
The press that I saw for the book on Google and other places gives away the whole premise of the book and all its secrets! I only found it when I went looking for a bio for the author because there wasn’t one on GoodReads or Amazon, and I like to have something for a bio when I review a book. What I found was press releases from the US and UK with the story about the book and how it was a true story and other stuff. No, I am not going to give any more of it away.
Read the story, enjoy the tension, find out what happens. Does he answer her note? Does she talk to him? Do they ever meet up? Does she ever do anything with her life other than make up names for fashions? But don’t read the press releases.
The characters were reasonably well developed. The storyline was highly amusing. The pace was a bit irregular with some slow and go spots. The writing was quite good. I loved the fashion description! I could really picture each of Maya’s outfits each day! Loved it when she decided to look good enough to be noticed.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
My Review: ✰✰✰⭒
It’s a debut novel based on a true story. And it’s one that takes us around in circles for a bit. First, she’s watching him and he’s unaware of her. Then he’s the one looking. They bump into each other at a photo shoot and then there’s his old girlfriend and Maya takes off. So much of the tension of this story is whether or not the two of them with eventually get together. Well, I hadn’t read the press releases before I read the book. I’m so glad I hadn’t, too. I would have been so angry. As I said, so much of the tension is whether or not they’re going to get together. Whether or not he’s going to answer her note. Whether or not she’s going to speak to him. Whether or not they’ll ever get together again.
The press that I saw for the book on Google and other places gives away the whole premise of the book and all its secrets! I only found it when I went looking for a bio for the author because there wasn’t one on GoodReads or Amazon, and I like to have something for a bio when I review a book. What I found was press releases from the US and UK with the story about the book and how it was a true story and other stuff. No, I am not going to give any more of it away.
Read the story, enjoy the tension, find out what happens. Does he answer her note? Does she talk to him? Do they ever meet up? Does she ever do anything with her life other than make up names for fashions? But don’t read the press releases.
The characters were reasonably well developed. The storyline was highly amusing. The pace was a bit irregular with some slow and go spots. The writing was quite good. I loved the fashion description! I could really picture each of Maya’s outfits each day! Loved it when she decided to look good enough to be noticed.
September 27, 2017
I love a book written set in England so it's not that but rather how utterly boring the first half of book was. It seems to be all tangled up as we wait to see exactly which characters we are to care for. When does she get rejected by a guy who already has a girlfriend?
Once the storyline settles down we see the characters we are meant to care for. I didn't mind the Catherine and Simon scenes as I saw through them and they finally settled in with the storyline of the two main characters.
I loved the fashion scene and the advertising scene...but understand they aren't meant for everyone.
Being kind to Velma was a wonderful part of the story. Nena and Tom and Arlo gave us such hope for the man on the train....
Once the storyline settles down we see the characters we are meant to care for. I didn't mind the Catherine and Simon scenes as I saw through them and they finally settled in with the storyline of the two main characters.
I loved the fashion scene and the advertising scene...but understand they aren't meant for everyone.
Being kind to Velma was a wonderful part of the story. Nena and Tom and Arlo gave us such hope for the man on the train....
October 29, 2017
I really wanted to enjoy this book as the story sounded so good but I found that the writing style just didn't suit me. A bit too hard to get into.
January 17, 2018
Two and a half stars: A book that lacked focus and had a plodding plot.
Maya Flowers is on cloud nine. Today is the day that she finally worked up the courage to hand Train Man a note. Train Man is the mysterious man she has been obsessing over for the last year. It was love at first sight. The moment Maya saw him standing on the platform, she just knew that he was the one for her. Why is that after all this time, she can’t even work up to the courage to speak to him? Finally, thanks to the prodding of a new friend, Maya dares to give him a note asking him to meet her for a drink. Will Train Man accept?
What I Liked:
*This is a hard book for me to review. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. This is a book that follows two people, Maya and James, as they encounter troubles in their work and personal lives, find new beginnings, new friends, make changes and ultimately fall in love. It was an interesting story, and I liked the characters.
*Maya was a fun main character. At first, she is just an average girl, happy in her work, but not striving for more. Once she sees Train Man, she begins to change. I liked watching her work through adversity at her job that she once loved. I also enjoyed watching her branch out, make new friends, take some chances, and ultimately turn her life in a new direction. She is plucky, funny, a bit daring, and kind.
*James is much quieter than Maya. He is calm, considerate, and patient. Yet he finds himself stuck in a relationship that lost its fire months and months ago. His work isn’t appealing to him anymore. Instead of miring in his misery when everything comes to a head, he too, decides to take some chances and make some changes. I loved seeing his evolution.
*I appreciated that Maya stood up to the bullying by the mean girl in the office. The new boss is all kinds of cruel. She picks on people, makes condescending remarks, and is just plain awful. I liked that Maya had pluck and that she found a way to dish it back to her.
*Velma was one of my favorite characters. She is an adorable older woman with a huge heart and lots of wisdom. I loved watching the friendship form between Maya and Velma, it was one of the highlights of the story.
*The ending is sweet and lovely. The moment that I was waiting for finally arrives. It was satisfying, even though I wanted more.
And The Not So Much:
*The writing was not easy to read. The book lacks direction and focus. There is this wispy, flitting style that isn’t easy to follow. There are a lot of frills and unnecessary detail that took away from the story. I wished that it wasn’t all over the place.
*There are way too many characters and details to keep track of. All of sudden you get these snippets between Catherine and Simon, two people who meet on the train and start having an affair. I didn’t like them, nor did I care to read about two people who were cheating on their significant others. I couldn’t figure out why they were suddenly in the story, it finally did make sense after awhile. Again, this is a case of the book needing better focus.
*Kitty was the most nasty and exasperating character. I kept thinking there would be this revelation, and that I would finally learn why she was so downright ugly to her boyfriend. That never comes. I wanted to punch her.
*I was expecting this to be a sweet, romantic love story. It really isn’t. Instead it is more a book about growth and change for both the main characters. You finally get that dose of romance right at the end. I hated that I had to wait the entire book for that tiny bit of romance.
The Note was a book I picked up expecting a light, breezy romance. I was disappointed in that there was really not much romance expect at the end. I did like watching the main characters grow and evolve, but I struggled with the writing style. This book needed sharper focus, less characters and extraneous detail. It was a tad too frustrating for my preference.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Maya Flowers is on cloud nine. Today is the day that she finally worked up the courage to hand Train Man a note. Train Man is the mysterious man she has been obsessing over for the last year. It was love at first sight. The moment Maya saw him standing on the platform, she just knew that he was the one for her. Why is that after all this time, she can’t even work up to the courage to speak to him? Finally, thanks to the prodding of a new friend, Maya dares to give him a note asking him to meet her for a drink. Will Train Man accept?
What I Liked:
*This is a hard book for me to review. I liked it, but I didn’t love it. This is a book that follows two people, Maya and James, as they encounter troubles in their work and personal lives, find new beginnings, new friends, make changes and ultimately fall in love. It was an interesting story, and I liked the characters.
*Maya was a fun main character. At first, she is just an average girl, happy in her work, but not striving for more. Once she sees Train Man, she begins to change. I liked watching her work through adversity at her job that she once loved. I also enjoyed watching her branch out, make new friends, take some chances, and ultimately turn her life in a new direction. She is plucky, funny, a bit daring, and kind.
*James is much quieter than Maya. He is calm, considerate, and patient. Yet he finds himself stuck in a relationship that lost its fire months and months ago. His work isn’t appealing to him anymore. Instead of miring in his misery when everything comes to a head, he too, decides to take some chances and make some changes. I loved seeing his evolution.
*I appreciated that Maya stood up to the bullying by the mean girl in the office. The new boss is all kinds of cruel. She picks on people, makes condescending remarks, and is just plain awful. I liked that Maya had pluck and that she found a way to dish it back to her.
*Velma was one of my favorite characters. She is an adorable older woman with a huge heart and lots of wisdom. I loved watching the friendship form between Maya and Velma, it was one of the highlights of the story.
*The ending is sweet and lovely. The moment that I was waiting for finally arrives. It was satisfying, even though I wanted more.
And The Not So Much:
*The writing was not easy to read. The book lacks direction and focus. There is this wispy, flitting style that isn’t easy to follow. There are a lot of frills and unnecessary detail that took away from the story. I wished that it wasn’t all over the place.
*There are way too many characters and details to keep track of. All of sudden you get these snippets between Catherine and Simon, two people who meet on the train and start having an affair. I didn’t like them, nor did I care to read about two people who were cheating on their significant others. I couldn’t figure out why they were suddenly in the story, it finally did make sense after awhile. Again, this is a case of the book needing better focus.
*Kitty was the most nasty and exasperating character. I kept thinking there would be this revelation, and that I would finally learn why she was so downright ugly to her boyfriend. That never comes. I wanted to punch her.
*I was expecting this to be a sweet, romantic love story. It really isn’t. Instead it is more a book about growth and change for both the main characters. You finally get that dose of romance right at the end. I hated that I had to wait the entire book for that tiny bit of romance.
The Note was a book I picked up expecting a light, breezy romance. I was disappointed in that there was really not much romance expect at the end. I did like watching the main characters grow and evolve, but I struggled with the writing style. This book needed sharper focus, less characters and extraneous detail. It was a tad too frustrating for my preference.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
March 25, 2021
Dein erster Blick für immer – Zoe Folbigg
Ein Blick. Zwei Fremde. Drei Zeilen, die das Glück versprechen …
Maya Flowers ist hoffnungslos romantisch. Sie liebt nostalgische Kleider, französisches Gebäck und glaubt fest an die Liebe auf den ersten Blick. Als sie eines Morgens im Zug einen jungen Man gegenüber sitzt, dessen sanfte braune Augen in die Seiten eines Romans vertieft sind, passiert es. Sie verliebt sich auf der Stelle in ihn, ohne ein einziges Wirt mit ihm gesprochen zu haben. Von nun an fiebert Maya den morgendlichen Zugfahrten wie einem heiß ersehnten Date entgegen, doch der schöne Fremde scheint sie nicht einmal zu bemerken. Mit einer kleinen Botschaft will sie ihrem Glück auf die Sprünge helfen – ohne zu ahnen wie sehr diese Zeilen ihr Leben für immer verändern werden.
Das Cover und der Klappentext haben mich sofort angesprochen. Habe mich sehr auf die Geschichte von Maya und ihrem „Bahn – Mann“ gefreut. Der Einstieg in die Geschichte ist der Autorin sehr gelungen. Dort beschreibt sie sehr genau, wie die junge Maya ihre Bahn-Mann trifft und sich sehr schnell in ihn und sein Aussehen, seine Ausstrahlung und seine braunen Augen verliebt. Auch wenn ich mit dem Schreibstil der Autorin am Anfang ein wenig zu kämpfen hatte, hat mich der Einstieg in die Geschichte dennoch sehr überzeugt und schnell waren die ersten Seiten gelesen. Ich hatte das Gefühl, mitten in der Geschichte angekommen zu sein. Bis zu dem Zeitpunkt als Maya ihrer heimlichen Liebe eine kleine Botschaft überreicht, mit der sie ihrem Glück auf die Sprünge helfen will.
Denn dann rückt die Geschichte rund um Maya und James durch zu viele verschiedene Personen, Nebenhandlungen und Schauplätzen in meinen Augen sehr in den Hintergrund. Die Geschichte wurde für mich zu zäh und hatte eigentlich nichts mehr mit dem Klappentext zu tun. Es nicht leicht gefallen, am Ball zu bleiben. Immer wieder habe ich mich ablenken lassen und habe zeitweise auch Absätze überflogen. Einzig und alleine die Tatsache, dass ich wissen wollte, ob Maya nun zu ihrem Glück findet und ihr Bahn –Mann ihr Traummann wird, hat mich zum weiter lesen motivieren können.
Es gab immer wieder sehr humorvolle und spannende Passagen, die mich ab und zu wieder in die Story zurückgeholt haben, vor allem wenn Maya gerade in ihrem Job wieder viel Mut bewiesen hat, oder sich getraut hat, einfach einen anderen Weg einzuschlagen.
Es ist eine nette Geschichte für zwischen durch aber dennoch hat es mich nicht überzeugen können. Und wer eine großartige Liebesgeschichte zwischen Maya und James erwartet, wird leider enttäuscht, denn die kam in meinen Augen leider viel zu kurz. Die Idee ist wirklich schön aber für mich nicht gut genug umgesetzt.
Ich möchte aber an dieser Stelle betonen, dass es mein ganz persönlicher Eindruck ist und jeder Leser und jede Leserin einen anderen Lesegeschmack hat und einen anderen Eindruck gewinnen kann.
Ein Blick. Zwei Fremde. Drei Zeilen, die das Glück versprechen …
Maya Flowers ist hoffnungslos romantisch. Sie liebt nostalgische Kleider, französisches Gebäck und glaubt fest an die Liebe auf den ersten Blick. Als sie eines Morgens im Zug einen jungen Man gegenüber sitzt, dessen sanfte braune Augen in die Seiten eines Romans vertieft sind, passiert es. Sie verliebt sich auf der Stelle in ihn, ohne ein einziges Wirt mit ihm gesprochen zu haben. Von nun an fiebert Maya den morgendlichen Zugfahrten wie einem heiß ersehnten Date entgegen, doch der schöne Fremde scheint sie nicht einmal zu bemerken. Mit einer kleinen Botschaft will sie ihrem Glück auf die Sprünge helfen – ohne zu ahnen wie sehr diese Zeilen ihr Leben für immer verändern werden.
Das Cover und der Klappentext haben mich sofort angesprochen. Habe mich sehr auf die Geschichte von Maya und ihrem „Bahn – Mann“ gefreut. Der Einstieg in die Geschichte ist der Autorin sehr gelungen. Dort beschreibt sie sehr genau, wie die junge Maya ihre Bahn-Mann trifft und sich sehr schnell in ihn und sein Aussehen, seine Ausstrahlung und seine braunen Augen verliebt. Auch wenn ich mit dem Schreibstil der Autorin am Anfang ein wenig zu kämpfen hatte, hat mich der Einstieg in die Geschichte dennoch sehr überzeugt und schnell waren die ersten Seiten gelesen. Ich hatte das Gefühl, mitten in der Geschichte angekommen zu sein. Bis zu dem Zeitpunkt als Maya ihrer heimlichen Liebe eine kleine Botschaft überreicht, mit der sie ihrem Glück auf die Sprünge helfen will.
Denn dann rückt die Geschichte rund um Maya und James durch zu viele verschiedene Personen, Nebenhandlungen und Schauplätzen in meinen Augen sehr in den Hintergrund. Die Geschichte wurde für mich zu zäh und hatte eigentlich nichts mehr mit dem Klappentext zu tun. Es nicht leicht gefallen, am Ball zu bleiben. Immer wieder habe ich mich ablenken lassen und habe zeitweise auch Absätze überflogen. Einzig und alleine die Tatsache, dass ich wissen wollte, ob Maya nun zu ihrem Glück findet und ihr Bahn –Mann ihr Traummann wird, hat mich zum weiter lesen motivieren können.
Es gab immer wieder sehr humorvolle und spannende Passagen, die mich ab und zu wieder in die Story zurückgeholt haben, vor allem wenn Maya gerade in ihrem Job wieder viel Mut bewiesen hat, oder sich getraut hat, einfach einen anderen Weg einzuschlagen.
Es ist eine nette Geschichte für zwischen durch aber dennoch hat es mich nicht überzeugen können. Und wer eine großartige Liebesgeschichte zwischen Maya und James erwartet, wird leider enttäuscht, denn die kam in meinen Augen leider viel zu kurz. Die Idee ist wirklich schön aber für mich nicht gut genug umgesetzt.
Ich möchte aber an dieser Stelle betonen, dass es mein ganz persönlicher Eindruck ist und jeder Leser und jede Leserin einen anderen Lesegeschmack hat und einen anderen Eindruck gewinnen kann.
August 26, 2019
I started reading – and really enjoying – Zoë Folbigg’s new book The Postcard, quickly realised it was a sequel and went out and downloaded her first book. I’m not quite sure how it managed to pass me by when it came out in 2017 as it is exactly the kind of fun romantic read that I enjoy as an alternative to the dastardly and dark thrillers that I frequently devour!
One morning Maya Flowers looks around her train carriage and notices a new man sitting near her. He is handsome and makes her heart pound. She desperately hopes that he is going to be a regular commuter. And thus “Train Man” is born. Maya spends weeks secretly watching him as he reads a series of dull books on the train and takes in every aspect of him. Soon everyone at work is bored with the tales of this elusive “Train Man” and Maya’s reluctance to talk to him as it would ruin her illusions.
Having spent many years on a commuter train myself, Folbigg’s observations of the fellow passengers, the superior and inferior train types, the “vomit comet” last train home and the general tedium of the regular journey all resonated with me. People are creatures of habit, typically getting on the same carriage and trying to sit in the same seats every day.
You do notice the other people around you and listen in on their phone calls and their conversations. My commute left me with some very good friends who would look out for each other and even organise Christmas dinners etc. I even taught one of the regular commuters how to Cross Stitch. She would sit and watch me stitch on the train and then with a little encouragement graduated to her own projects!
Eventually Maya plucks up the courage to pass him a note asking him out for a drink and there the tangled tale really begins. It is a bit of a Sliding Doors tale with their lives intersecting at various points without them realising and a series of misunderstandings that keep them apart.
It really is a sweet and uplifting tale. Maya is such a nice character that you just want to keep reading. And I do now have an insatiable craving for a nice macaron! At times it is laugh out loud funny when Maya is at work with her colleagues in an online fashion business but even this is not all sweetness and light.
I’m ready to start the sequel now… notes on The Postcard to follow soon.
At time of writing it is currently free to borrow on Amazon Prime Lending Library.
One morning Maya Flowers looks around her train carriage and notices a new man sitting near her. He is handsome and makes her heart pound. She desperately hopes that he is going to be a regular commuter. And thus “Train Man” is born. Maya spends weeks secretly watching him as he reads a series of dull books on the train and takes in every aspect of him. Soon everyone at work is bored with the tales of this elusive “Train Man” and Maya’s reluctance to talk to him as it would ruin her illusions.
Having spent many years on a commuter train myself, Folbigg’s observations of the fellow passengers, the superior and inferior train types, the “vomit comet” last train home and the general tedium of the regular journey all resonated with me. People are creatures of habit, typically getting on the same carriage and trying to sit in the same seats every day.
You do notice the other people around you and listen in on their phone calls and their conversations. My commute left me with some very good friends who would look out for each other and even organise Christmas dinners etc. I even taught one of the regular commuters how to Cross Stitch. She would sit and watch me stitch on the train and then with a little encouragement graduated to her own projects!
Eventually Maya plucks up the courage to pass him a note asking him out for a drink and there the tangled tale really begins. It is a bit of a Sliding Doors tale with their lives intersecting at various points without them realising and a series of misunderstandings that keep them apart.
It really is a sweet and uplifting tale. Maya is such a nice character that you just want to keep reading. And I do now have an insatiable craving for a nice macaron! At times it is laugh out loud funny when Maya is at work with her colleagues in an online fashion business but even this is not all sweetness and light.
I’m ready to start the sequel now… notes on The Postcard to follow soon.
At time of writing it is currently free to borrow on Amazon Prime Lending Library.
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