Welcome everyone to our discussion of "Remember When" by Judith McNaught. I guess I have to start reading the book now so that I will have something to say soon.

Marjorie

Hi Marjorie! I looked in our book list and found this title, so I went over to the barn where I keep my McNaught novels and found it. I'm ready to start reading Remember When on October 5. Sue

SUE: Hi, I am glad you found your book. I think I might like to browse in your barn sometime. <G> Did you remember to subscribe here? I didn't. I just came in today to check the heading and there your post was. So I just subscribed.

Marjorie

Good morning. I like the Fall heading displayed on Books and Literature although I protest the coming of Fall. I never get enough summer. I'm looking forward to a discussion on Remember When. I think Cole Harrison is an appealing hero.And Diana Foster a worthy match for him. I've read it at least twice but I'd better skim it to keep up. I'm curious about Sue's barn also.??? Marj.

I don't know where you live, but our summer was so hot - without much rain - we're all glad to see fall. I'm looking forward to the new discussion. Hi Marjorie and all. Regards, Ruth Lupien

Hi M and IMAKNITTER. Glad to see you both.

I just started reading "Remember When" and discovered the book started much earlier that the part I quoted in the header from the back of the book. I think I will reread it when we discuss it.

Have a great day everyone.

Marjorie

I can't believe it!!!!I went to the mall - just got back in fact - I am so proud of myself - "ahem ahem" I remembered the name of the book and the author and I bought it. Will wonders never cease. So, I hope I can keep up with all you gals. What I've been forgetting to mention. I found The Clayborne Brides, by Julie Garwood at an antique store. The books she was selling weren't antique, but I lucked out. First time I've read her. I'm almost finished - have to get Adam married. See you all. Ruth

RUTH: I'm so glad you found the book. Are you enjoying "Clayborne Brides?" I have "Saving Grace" left to read of the Julie Garwood books I got. I am enjoying her books.

Marjorie

I picked up my copy of Remember When at the library today. So hope to get started reading tonight.

Northern Joan

I started Remember When, last night. I know I'll enjoy reading it. Finished Clayborne Brides during the commercials on Olympics. I liked it. Reminded me of some of the old westerns. John Wayne, etc. I liked westerns. I'm partial to novels that take place in the 1880's. My Mom was born in 1885, guess that's why. To see what it was like during the time of her young life. I'll hold any comments on Remember When til you start the discussion. Regards to all, Ruth

I was able to find the book at the library and have read only a few pages, but I like the characters and look forward to reading it and the discussion. Ruth: I tried to email you (clicked on your name to get your e.address) but that didn't work for me. Anyhow, I wondered if you would like me to send you the paperback of "Darling Caroline"? If you'd like it, it's yours! Just send me an address by clicking on my name and e-mailing me.

Good morning, JOAN. I'm glad you were able to get the book and join us. Enjoy!

Hi RUTH. Thanks for the information about "Clayborne Brides." My grandfather was born in 1875 but not in this country. When they did come to this country, shortly before the 1900's, they came to Chicago. I have enjoyed stories set in different settings. It never occurred to me to think of them as settings for ancestors of people I know. I like that idea.

MEM: It is sure nice of you to offer your copy of "My Darling Caroline." I have an extra copy of "Tears of the Moon" that I can send to the first person who wants it.

Marjorie

I started the book last night, but I think I have already read it! I couldn't stay awake long enough to read enough to find out for sure, but sure is familiar. Can't remember how it all goes though so will have to reread it!

Northern Joan

I well into the book. One of those nights I couldn't sleep. I think I'm on Chapter 23. I like it, but will wait til Marjorie says "go".

mem: Don't know why you couldn't get me on e-mai, unless it was yesterday. Webtv was having a problem, I couldn't get connected all day. Probably why I couldn't sleep :~). Try again.

Happy reading. Ruth

Hi RUTH and NORTHERN JOAN. I'm also reading the book and enjoying it. I don't know what chapter I am on yet. SUE was going to wait to read the book until Oct. 5 so I think we should hold off on our discussion.

Hi Marjorie and all, just reached into the bookcase for the next book to read and guess what I came out with? Yup, just getting started but will join the discussion this time around. Shirley

if everyone else wants to start the discussion. I'll finish the futuristic mystery/romance by J.D. Robb (alias Nora Roberts) this evening and will start Remember When tomorrow. I've read this book some time ago, but the details are hazy, so rereading will be good for me. I usually reread my favorites anyway. I've just finished rereading all the Amanda Quick (Jayne Anne Krentz Historicals) that I have--about 8. Sue

OK everyone. I hear you all. The date for this discussion has been changed to October 1. That is this coming Sunday and will give us all a chance to start reading the book. I am delighted to see so many of you here.

Marjorie

As soon as I finish The Iron Hand of Mars (about Falco, a "private eye" in ancient Rome) by Lindsay Davis, I'll be ready to start Remember When. I'm happy to start the discussion earlier, because I'm having family visitors Oct. 4 to 9. Ruth, I still can't get an e-mail to you, but if you want "My Darling Caroline" click on my name at the beginning of the post to find my e:address and let me know where to send it. OK?

I just clicked onto my preference page & notice I have my e-mail address wrong. I left out the k when I typed it. Do you know how to change anything on that page? I've tried taking the Lupien out, that's my last name, but it doesn't work. Any help will be appreciated. mem has been trying to e-mail me. I sent an e-mailto her this morning. Thanks, Ruth

RUTH: Right now the email address I get when I click on your name is imanitter@webtv.et. You need an "n" to make webtv.net I think. I have seen a discussion elsewhere with a number of people and Marcie about Preferences. Apparently when you make changes you get a messages that says something about the change not working when it actually does work. I think you need to try again. Would you post your correct email address here or email me with it because I would like to keep you upto date on my Romance Discussion list.

Has everyone noticed the great banner this morning for "Remember When?" Very nice. I wonder if the bannermakers read parts of the book before making their banners. The two people are on the porch. That happens a lot in books but not in all of them.

Marjorie

I like the "Remember When" banner a lot. Just now when I looked at it, though, I thought it looked like it was advertising a discussion that was a place to reminisce. Does anyone have an idea, other than the email I send, the banner, and notice in New Discussions, of a good way to publicize our discussion?

Hi! I'm in this post because of the banner. It looked interesting, and then, when I got in, I found out what it is, of course. I read this book a couple of years ago, remember that I liked it, and I would like to join in on the discussion. I'll start my rereading pronto.

and we already got one new reader. Welcome Betty! I'm glad you've joined us.

I've gotten a good start on rereading the book now. I especially like the first 4 chapters where Diana and Corey become sisters. The family's self-help, healthy living practices really appeal to me. I think the teenage crushes are depicted well, also. I can remember some of that going to where the boys are to see and be seen, even though it was about 50 years ago. Sue

I just went in and tried to change my preference page. I hope it works. my e-mail is: imaknitter@webtv.net I never noticed it before. I've received many e-mails from SN people, and become friends. I'm on Chapter 38. What an ideal family. Almost sounds too good to be true. I'm enjoying the book. I don't want to get ahead, so won't say anything more til more are posting. Happy reading, Ruth

RUTH: Try posting in the Problems discussion about not being able to change your preferences. It didn't work. Thanks for giving me your correct email address.

Welcome BETTY ALLEN. Glad you found us and will be reading with us.

I have been enjoying the book too. I finished it last night. I think I will reread the beginning of it tonight. Everytime I reread a book, I find something that I missed the first time.

SUE: I agree with you about the healthy way of living in Diana's family. Pretty neat that there was all that support for that kind of thing.

Marjorie

I e-mailed the web master and Marcie answered and told me how to change it. I just did and I think it's okay now. I'm enjoying the book, but I do think she repeats a little bit. What do you think made Cole into such a different character than when he was in college and the Stable Boy??? The way he was run off by his Employer? Or just from being such a tycoon in busness? I don't want to get ahead of everyone, cause I'm well into it. I hate to put it down. Happy Reading, Ruth

RUTH: Your email address looks correct now. Marcie is a great help.

Just in case any of you haven't heard. Today is the Book & Literature 4th Anniversary. A fine celebration is planned with contests and prizes. Do come on over to:

Welcome/Welcome Home 4th Anniversary

Hi all, Although I don't think this is one of McNaught's best, it is right up there. I, too like the environment of healthy eating and the use of organic food and decor. On rereading this story I agree that maybe the blending of families is a little too perfect?? But the characters are likeable and the tension is there when things start becoming less perfect. What does everyone think of Cal? I like a curmudgeon in any book. Marj

I, too, like a curmudgeon in the story. I think the family is so perfect because it is a story. McNaught probably thinks the majority of her readers have enough warts of their own. I know our family does!

Ruth, I think Cole had many of the same traits as stable boy and tycoon. In both he was reluctant to show his feelings and get close to anyone. He was very ambitious and hardworking as both, also. His warmth was brought out both times by Diana because of her kindness and friendly manner. She didn't ever press him like the other teenagers and later women looking for a rich, successful husband. She liked him as he was, flaws and all. I think that's one of the things that makes the story successful.

Marjorie, I've seen the beautiful B & L birthday banner that you constructed. Congratulations! It's lovely work. Sue

I missed the banner you had yesterday. Darn. Another way to get publicity, and I'm sure this happens, is thru Pat Westerdales' emails to people on the B&L list. But then you have to be on the list in the first place .

I have read several of Judith McNaughts books and I do prefer the modern settings so this is enjoyable to me. About half way thru. But tell me. At one point, she set a table in the stable so she and Cole could eat together and she lit two hurricane lanterns that were on the makeshift table. Just a short time prior to that, Cole had been angry about some boys with candles in the stable. To me, both are fire and both should not be in a stable.

PETITE ONE: I will have to go look for the part you mention about the hurricane lamps. I am rereading the story and probably close to the place you are talking about right now. PAT W's newsletter will have the announcement of this discussion tomorrow. Today's newsletter was emphasizing the celebration.

I did today's contest and got 18 right out of 25. I am delighted. I didn't think I would get more than 4 or 5 right even after I was looking at the questions. There are real prizes for the contest winners.

Marj: I found it difficult to believe that the two families go along so well so fast. At the same time it seemed to emphasize Diana's willingness to be gracious to all. In spite of her mother's death she isn't portrayed as having any insecurities just a need to be neat. I don't know how real that is. I think SUE is right about this just being a story.

SUE: I agree with you about Cole. Thanks for your nice comments about the heading. I did the HTML and colors. Everyone else told me what to put in the heading.

Marjorie

I see you are all well into it. I liked the idea of the girls becoming friends as well as sisters. I thought Diana & Cole would get together sooner. Instead the story jumped ahead. Cal reminded me of another man in a story I read. He really put it to Cole. Of course, I've finished the book, so can't give too much away. Do I dare say that in most of the Romance Novels I've read, the heroin is always very beautiful, with copper hair, green eyes, and very intelligent. And the male counterpart is so handsome. I guess that's what makes the story. This is the first time I've read McNaught. Ive been reading so many of John Grisham's books that this is a change of pace. I thought setting the table in the stable was a little much, but it was kinda romantic. Happy Reading, Ruth

having a picnic in the stable with my own personal hunk! I do think the Hurricane lamps could have been dangerous, but their light was certainly more romantic than the glaring flourescent lights I've seen in the few stables I've been in. I think in a romance you have to dispense with reality in lots of instances. Sue

It seems that Judith started this book off with some snobs, which at first, game me the thought of whether I would even like the book. I did think it was great that Corey and Diana became such good friends, especially since their parents had married.

A new BMW for a 16-year old?

I think there are two ways or reasons to read a fictional story. One for enjoyment and one to critique it.When we critique it we're looking for flaws and picking it apart. Of course, hopefully, we are also looking at the way the author makes the story work. So, yes it's just a story and we can suspend reality but what would we discuss? :~) Incidentally, I have read romance books where the heroine is described as plain (until the hero sees her smile in the right light and falls in love.) I don't particularly want to read about the couple down the street--ordinary folk, whose looks are nothing special.I do think this story gets better after the characters are adults. Marj

I was thinking about those hurricane lamps. Isn't the flame in hurricane lamps inside a glass sleve? I think the boys were sent out of the barn for lighting cigarettes. Cigarettes could very easily ignite the hay. I think they are much more hazardous than an enclosed lamp.

I noticed something with the description of Cole's business. It said that it was next door to "Ross Porot's E-Systems." Does anyone know if that can be trusted as real? Does Ross Porot own E-Systems?

When I was thinking about the way Diana and Corey live, I thought immediately of Martha Stewart. I am more like Corey. My room would be messy rather than neat like Diana's.

Marjorie

Marjorie, you mentioned yesterday that you got 18 out of 25 right in the contest. How do you know? I received an e-mail from Lorrie who said I did well and to check tomorrow to see how well. I'm going to try today's contest, but it sounds harder. Sue

What difference does it make if It was real or not, regards to Ross Periot. It's just a story as you said. I wasn't being critical, I was just making an observation. Ruth

really lives in Texas, but I doubt that is the name of his business. I'm wondering if the White Orchid Ball is the real name of the charity ball wealthy Hustonians attend to see, be seen, and raise money for their favorite charities? I'm pretty sure that is based on fact. Sue

RUTH: The only difference is that I pick up information wherever I read it and I read a lot of fiction. I just wondered for my own information if I purchase an e-machines computer if that is buying from Ross Peroit. Does it matter? Probably not.

I stand corrected. It was a cigarette and not candles. I wondered why it was even mentioned except that it showed a little bit of Coles character. It is really surprising that he absolutely doesn't want children. Just wait. Will that change? Hmmm? I really like the short chapters she is using as I can stop reading at a break in the story.

Today, I was looking at a rack of paperbacks and there was a new book there by Judith McNaught. I was not aware she had written a new book (is she still living?) so I picked it up and lo and behold, it was "Whitney, My Love". What a surprise to see that. A reissue.

PETITE ONE: Did you buy "Whitney, My Love" or have you read it already?

was one of McNaught's first books and it's a good one. They must have reissued it because her books have become so popular. I have a copy of Whitney, My Love in my barn, naturally. I think I've seen a dedication in one of McNaught's books to her daughter, Whitney, so she must have named her character after the daughter. Sue

Marjorie what a wonderful heading you really outdid yourself.I love the flowers and the whole thing, very very nice.

I am sorry I didn't get this book but am enjoying everyones comments. Recieved a box from my daughter in Alaska today with 19 new books. should keep me busy.

I am looking forward to your next book, which I have read, but plan to look it over again before the begining of the discussion

Hi JUDY. Good to see you. I have started the heading for the next book already. The last book has so few posts I was afraid I would need a new heading in a hurry. The background for this heading is something I found many months ago and saved for a heading in Romance.

SUE: Have you read "Whitney, My Love" yet?

Is everyone finished reading "Remember When?"

Someone mentioned the fact that Cole didn't want to have children. When I read that I figured that it had something to do with the part of his life he wouldn't talk about. I also assumed, since this is a romance, that when he gets together with his "true love" he will want to have children with her. How about the way that Diana got the business going for her family?

Marjorie

Yes, Whitney is named for McNaught's daughter and Clayton, he hero, is named for her son. I think she has a grandson who is called Nicky, the same name as one of her heroes. She has a new book due out this month. I can't remember the title but it has something to do with water.I didn't like her last one,"Night Whispers" but I'm looking forward to the new one. I appreciate the warm humor found in her books. I think the Remember When grandma is priceless. She tells it like it is. I would love to be as creative as that family is. The story flows with just enough tension to make it interesting. And they do end up wanting childen and how many is determined in a fun way. Marj

Marj: I agree with you about the grandmother. She is great. Did people get to the scene at the table at the benefit when Diana and Cole left together and the one at Diana's house when the family is gathered and being polite? Wonderful ones where the grandmother has real insightful things to say.

Marjorie

If you recall, we read Whitney My Love in this discussion about a year ago! It was not one of McNaught's better books. The current one is much better.

I am just over half finished but discovered that I had read the book before. Have to re read it though as I don't remember details. Just the general gist of the story.

I agree that the family gets along too well for a situation such as that. It is kinda nice to read a story though where the daughter accepts her step sister and they become friends.

I like Cole....I think it was good that he didn't take advantage of Diana when she would come to the stable and visit him. He also was honorable when Mrs. H...(the name escapes me) came down to the stable to see him even if she wasn't. Too bad the husband didn't realize the truth.

As for Cal, I think he is a typically stubborn old man, who is sure he is right whether he is or not. He is being very foolish to make threats like those. And worse yet, he would carry through with them.

I also agree, the grandma is fun. Says what she pleases.

Northern Joan

NORTHERN JOAN: Glad to see your post. I wasn't involved in B&L when you read "Whitney, My Love." However, last night I went back to my list of Romance novels read and there it was. I hadn't thought to check the list.

Glad you have the list and saw that we did discuss Whitney. I did not care that much for it either. This book is much more interesting to me and so happy that Diana and Cole are getting along rather than all the misunderstandings of the characters in her other books. Almost done with this one.

I'm just a sucker for a fairy tale ending and I was so glad when Whitney finally realized what a jerk Paul (I think) was and turned to her true love, the not so nice at first, Clayton.

As for Grandma in Remember When, she is the kind of spunky gal I'd like to be. My problem is I think of those zingers about 3 days later! Sue

SUE: You've got me beat. I never think of the snappy comebacks. Not even three days later.

I,too,thought Whitney, My Love was quite good. But back to Remember When. There's a really poignant scene when Diana learns about Cole's childhood. I think McNaught is especially good at this. She allows her heroes to show vulnerability but also the strength to overcome adversity. The scenes of lovemaking seem to be tastefully done with just enough heat to be interesting. Comments? Marj

Marj: I just reread the scene you spoke of where Diana learns about Cole's childhood from Cal so it is fresh in my memory. I do agree that it is a poignant scene. I think that the reasons presented for each character's behavior seem quite plausible. I am comfortable reading this story rather than judgmental, the way I get sometimes when a story doesn't ring true. I liked the resolution of the story and the comebacks SUE was talking about continue. I will look for more of Judith McNaught's books to enjoy.

Marjorie

I felt there were parts that wern't fully answered such as the men following them. Was that really explained or just a suggestion. Certainly they were not confronted or arrested or ?

Something I've noticed about the author and I like, is that the title of the book is used in the last page or so of the story. Shirley

I think the company that owned the patents (can't recall the name) that Cole wanted was having him followed to locate the former employee who had all the scientific data. Anyway, I'll be off exploring the nations capital for the next few days, so I'll check in when I get back. Marj

I think maybe Marj is right about who was following Cole. Does anyone have any other ideas?

I agree that is who the men were, but they were never fully explained away. Just sorta left dangleing.

about Cole's past, I thought that was a touching scene. I also liked the part where Cole is sleeping at Cal's house and in his sleep he senses someone covering him up. Then Cal says "I love you, son." Cole was fortunate to have Cal in his life, despite the pressures he put on Cole to marry.

I also liked the scene when Diana went to the shack where Cole was born and abused by his father. He was so ashamed of his background, and when Diana picked up the rock and threw it through the window, he realized that she wasn't ashamed of him or disgusted by the background. Just seeing the shack and knowing what he'd had to endure helped Diana to understand Cole. Sue

SUE: You are so right about those two scenes. They were both very powerful. I am now reading her book "Night Whispers." I hope I enjoy it too.

I finally finished the book. I agree about who and why the men were following Travis and Cole. Also, think that line should have been pursued a bit further in the book. Also the breakin in Travis's office.

I also agree about the two scenes described above. They were very important scenes in the book.

Does anyone else feel that after all the build up the ending kind of fizzled? I think it could have been played out a bit more.

I did like the book though.

Northern Joan

I really feel for people who have a bad childhood, but it does me a lot of good to see them overcome that part of their lives, and make something of themselves.

NORTHERN JOAN: I agree with you about the ending. I would have liked a little more about Cole and Diana after the Senate hearing. At least about the birth of the first child. Something. I think there is often a problem with endings in the books I am reading. All the suspense builds up to a point and then it is just over. Just trailing off.

Hi BETTY ALLEN. Good to see your post.

Marj: I just finished "Night Whispers" and do not like it as well as "Remember When." I haven't yet read any other Judith McNaught books so I can't compare it to her others. I am not sure quite what I didn't like. I am not good at analyzing what is wrong with a book or even what is right.

I have enjoyed several of McNaught's books but can only remember one other title: Perfect.

Are we reading Lake News next?

Northern Joan

NORTHERN JOAN: Yes, we are reading "Lake News" next. I will be away for a few days next week so I thought we would start discussing it on November 1. I will put the discussion in Coming Attractions so I hope. The other McNaught book I have on my shelf is "Kingdom of Dreams." Have you read that one?

Good morning. Yes, Kingdom of Dreams is good--it's historical. I liked Paradise too--it's contemporary. My cat is on my lap right now "helping" me write so I can't get up to check this out but McNaught also wrote a short story (novella) in a Christmas offering wth others and I think it was about Corey from Remember When and Spence. I knew I'd read something more about that family but couldn't remember where.Its fun to pick up a book and renew acquaintance with characters from other books. I've forgotten who the author of Lake News is? Marj

Marj: "Lake News" is by Barbara Delinsky.

Well, I finally finished the Book! I liked it a lot. It does seem strange that the "followers" were never explained, but you must be correct in thinking it had to do with Cushman's. My only criticism would be that Diana was a bit too good to be true -- but then, after all this is "fiction"! I found both the scenes mentioned above very touching and also feel that if it weren't for Cal, Cole would not have had the incentive to do so well! I liked Corey from her first appearance and felt glad that she was happy with her Spence and their twins. I enjoyed Grandpa and Gram and always applaud when the elderly are portrayed as interesting, vital individuals! All in all I thought this book was a good choice and I'd certainly read another book by Judith McNaught if I see one.

MEM: Hi. I am glad you enjoyed the book. I thought all the characters in the family were people I would like to meet. That was nice. As you say, it is "fiction" and hardly what I would expect in real life.

Here is our next discussion:

Lake News

There is no hurry to go there. The discussion of Barbara Delinsky's book starts November 1.

All discussions now have a link to our Suggestion Box for any books you would like to discuss. The Suggestion Box link is just below the heading table.

I don't know if any of you were aware of this.

TIME MAGAZINE has named SeniorNet to its

Top Ten Websites!

I will ask to have this archived since I am the only one who posted here since Oct. 21. I guess everyone is over in the "Lake News" discussion.