I almost gave this book 4 stars simply because the character Lauren really drove me nuts, at times!

This Karen Kingsbury book really needs to be read in order, after Even Now. I am sorry to tell you that Lauren will also annoy you in Even Now, too, but I guess it can’t be helped! I cried and cried and cried, and sometimes, Kingsbury does that to a reader.

I love Karen Kingsbury, and this book is certainly one of her best! She actually wrote Ever After in only five days!!!!!!! When she has a story to tell, she tells it, and she tells it well!

I love to find memorable moments in the books that I read. One of my favorites from Ever After is: “Sometimes, life is so hard you can only do the next thing. Whatever that is, just do the next thing. God will meet you there” (215). This was actually said by Elisabeth Elliot, wife of Jim Elliot who was killed while serving as a missionary.

I tell myself, “The sun will rise,” during difficult times, so the following from page 244 really resonates with me. “One day the dark clouds of this time would lift, because morning always came. No matter how long and dark the night. That was God’s promise.”

And when I feel as if the division of America is so full of hatred I don’t know how we can ever unite, Kingsbury offers this. “Because with all its flaws and differing opinions, the United States really was the greatest country on earth—-the birthplace of freedom” (265).

If you love Christian fiction and/or Karen Kingsbury, you are going to want to read this book. When I read a book, I love to watch the movie or miniseries afterwards. My husband knows this. He saw the book cover and said, “Oh! We are about to have another movie to watch!” I looked at the book, confused, then said, “Oh, no! This is NOT the Drew Barrymore Ever After!!”

OH MY GOSH! This book is truly SO GREAT! I have to say that I absolutely loved it. The moment I started reading, I was completely immersed in the story. The characters were so vividly described that I felt like I actually knew them personally. It was as if they were real people with their own emotions and experiences. The story itself was captivating and engaging, taking me on a rollercoaster of feelings. It made me laugh, it made me gasp in surprise, and yes, it even made me cry. But not just any tears, these were tears that came from a deep connection with the characters and their struggles. What's more, this book also made me think. It presented some profound themes and ideas that really got me reflecting on my own life and the world around me. I cannot recommend this book enough. You simply have to read it!

The story was truly a remarkable one.

It had the power to engage the readers and draw them into its world. However, there was one aspect that slightly dampened the overall experience. Every scene seemed to conclude with a big love quote, which, in a way, diminished the excitement of the really good love scenes. It felt as if the author was trying too hard to emphasize the theme of love, rather than letting it unfold naturally.

Moreover, the ending of the story appeared to be rushed. It could have easily been extended for another five chapters or so, allowing for a more detailed exploration of the characters' emotions and the resolution of various plotlines. Despite these minor flaws, the story was still SUPER GOOD. It had a captivating plot, well-developed characters, and a unique writing style that kept the readers hooked until the very end.

Overall, it was a story that had the potential to be even greater if a few adjustments were made. Nevertheless, it was still a great read that left a lasting impression on the readers.

The sequel to Even Now brings about significant changes in the lives of the characters. Emily, who has been awarded a soccer scholarship, makes the decision to change schools and relocates to the west coast. This new chapter in her life holds great promise and adventure.

Lauren, on the other hand, decides to take a leave and live stateside for a while. Despite the passage of time, her opposition to the war remains strong. She uses this time to reflect on her beliefs and perhaps find new ways to make a difference.

Karen, in an effort to determine if she is being objective, chooses to take a 6-month stint in the Middle East. This experience will surely test her and force her to confront the realities of the situation.

Meanwhile, Shane manages to secure a job for Emily at Ft lewis. It is here that she meets and falls in love with the son of one of Shane's friends. This unexpected romance adds a new layer of complexity to Emily's life and sets the stage for further developments in the story.

As the characters embark on these new journeys, their lives become intertwined in ways they never could have imagined. The sequel to Even Now is sure to be filled with drama, romance, and self-discovery as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that come their way.

I have a deep affection for this book as it has opened my eyes to the war in Iraq in a manner that I had never imagined possible. It is truly remarkable. I find it extremely difficult to even begin to explain the profound impact it has had on me. The book is replete with all kinds of information regarding the war, including details about the soldiers, war casualties, and insurgents.

At times, I felt slightly overwhelmed because almost the entire content of the book was centered around the war. However, similar to the first book, the author has written it in such a way that you feel as if you are an integral part of it, making it nearly impossible to get bored. This story has drawn me in so deeply that I have had a hard time distinguishing between fiction and facts.

It has compelled me to confront my views on the war, something that I had only begun to do towards the end of Bush's presidency. I realize that my thoughts remain unchanged. I am neither completely against nor completely in favor of the war. War is an extremely complicated matter, yet sometimes it becomes necessary, even though nobody desires it. I firmly believe that the war in Iraq was initiated for the right reasons, which was to safeguard the freedom and protection of American citizens in the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11. However, I also believe that the reasons for remaining there for such a long time and putting our soldiers' lives at risk were all for the wrong reasons. This, for many people, is what mars the good that these men and women sacrifice their lives for on a daily basis.

The one thing that I am and will always be 100% certain of is that our troops require our unwavering support. These young and old men and women are sacrificing and risking their lives for us every single day so that we can continue to live in peace and enjoy our freedom. They are and will always be in my prayers. I am truly grateful for their sacrifice and unwavering devotion to America each and every day!

Just like the first book, this story also broke my heart, but in a completely different way. Nevertheless, while my heart was breaking, it was simultaneously being filled with everything that is wholesome, pure, and good about the world, as well as the power and pleasure of God's love.

Kingsbury is truly an inspirational writer. This is only the second novel that I have read by her, but I have already gained so much profound insight about faith and trusting in God. The messages she conveys through each book are crystal clear, and in this book, it is that "love is not possible without sacrifice and sacrifice is not possible without love." She has the amazing ability to make the stories so vivid and real that it feels as if you are listening to a close friend confiding in you. I simply cannot wait to read more of her books.

Major tear jerker!

This simple phrase holds a world of emotion. It implies a story, a situation, or an experience that has the power to bring tears to our eyes. It could be a heartwarming tale of love and sacrifice, a tragic event that tugs at our heartstrings, or a moment of profound realization that leaves us deeply moved.

A major tear jerker has the ability to touch us on a deep and personal level. It makes us feel empathy for the characters or individuals involved, and it allows us to connect with our own emotions. Whether it's a book, a movie, a song, or a real-life incident, a tear jerker has the power to make us cry, laugh, and feel a whole range of emotions.

Sometimes, we seek out tear jerkers deliberately, looking for that cathartic release of emotions. Other times, they catch us by surprise, hitting us when we least expect it. But regardless of how we encounter them, major tear jerkers have a way of staying with us, leaving a lasting impression on our hearts and minds.

I had expected to embark on a journey through the continuation of a beautiful love story. However, to my surprise, it turned out to be a book that solely focused on the reasons why we should support the war.

The "other" love story that was interwoven within the narrative was indeed heart-wrenching, and I couldn't help but shed numerous tears. Nevertheless, as I delved deeper into the book, I found myself growing increasingly impatient.

At times, I resorted to skipping over many pages, and on one occasion, I even skipped an entire chapter just to get through it and move on. It seemed that the constant emphasis on the war and its justifications overshadowed the very essence of the love story that had initially piqued my interest.

I couldn't help but wonder if there was a more effective way to convey the message about the war without sacrificing the emotional depth and engagement that a love story could bring.

This book got thrown.

I was extremely upset and declared that I was finished with Karen Kingsbury.

My then husband laughed at me, and as I sat there crying and seething with anger over the outcome, I stared at that book, trying to determine if I could continue.

Well, hours went by, and I became so intrigued to see what Karen and God had woven out of this.

What a beautiful story it turned out to be! Thankfully, I picked it back up.

I don't want to spoil it for you.

So, grab "Even Now" and then follow it up with "Ever After." You will be glad you did!!!

Teenage love, pregnancy, war, and more - all these elements are intertwined in this captivating tale.

It takes you on an emotional journey that will touch your heart and make you believe in the power of love and faith.

Don't miss out on this wonderful reading experience.

Pick up the books and let the story unfold before your eyes.

You won't be disappointed!

Maybe I didn't allocate sufficient time to this particular book. However, approximately 50 pages into it, I grew weary of listening to the continuous conservative/liberal and war/no war debate between Lauren and Shane.

I ultimately ceased reading it and am extremely disappointed in Karen and the political diatribe she was engaged in. "Even Now" was truly excellent, but I have no intention of finishing "Ever After."

I completely skipped the second chapter as it simply droned on and on about politics, which is not at all what I desire to read about.

It seems that the author might have overemphasized the political aspect, thereby detracting from the overall enjoyment of the story. I was hoping for a more engaging and diverse narrative, rather than being bombarded with political views and arguments.

Perhaps if the political elements had been more subtly integrated or presented in a more balanced manner, I might have been more inclined to continue reading. As it stands, I am left with a sense of dissatisfaction and a reluctance to invest further time in this book.

While I’ll admit that even now this particular work wasn't my absolute favorite, I have to say that "Ever After" is truly one of her best creations. It was simply amazing. The story was beautifully crafted, taking the reader on an emotional journey that was both heart wrenching and deeply satisfying. It had all the elements that make a great book - a captivating plot, well-developed characters, and a writing style that was both engaging and evocative. And it definitely deserved the ‘book of the year’ award it so rightfully earned. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good read. However, I must warn you, do not read it if you care what your make up looks like!! Because you will find yourself sobbing uncontrollably at certain parts, and your make up will be a mess!

This was an absolutely amazing religious fiction book.

As I delved into its pages, I found myself experiencing a whirlwind of emotions - love, laughter, and tears, both my own and those of the characters within.

The story beautifully wove together these elements, creating a tapestry that was both engaging and deeply moving.

All the while, it gently spread the powerful news that God loves us unconditionally and has a unique and wonderful plan for each and every one of our lives.

It was truly a captivating read that left me with a sense of hope and inspiration.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that combines entertainment with a profound spiritual message.

Whether you are a devout believer or simply someone interested in exploring the themes of faith and love, this book is sure to touch your heart and leave a lasting impression.

So, don't hesitate - pick up this amazing religious fiction book and embark on a journey that will change your perspective and enrich your life.

A look at the impact the war has on families is truly heart-wrenching. It tears apart loved ones, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and fear. The destruction and chaos that war brings can shatter the most stable of families, causing emotional and physical wounds that may never fully heal.

However, within the midst of this turmoil, there is often a glimmer of hope in the form of a heartfelt love story. This love story serves as a reminder of the true love that exists between two people, even in the most difficult of circumstances. It gives them the strength and courage to persevere through the hardships and hold onto the belief that better days will come.

These love stories can take many forms, from a young couple separated by the war but still deeply in love, to an older couple who have weathered many storms together and continue to cherish each other. They are a testament to the power of love and the human spirit, and they offer a ray of light in the darkness of war.