THE LONGEST RIDE by NICHOLAS SPARKS

Title: The Longest Rid

Author: Nicholas Sparks

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Reprint edition (September 30, 2014)

Pages: 496

It is my custom to review a book upon completing it, even those I don’t feel obligated to do so. With THE LONGEST RIDE by NICHOLAS SPARKS, it crossed my mind not to bother with a review. MR SPARKS is one author that is not in need of a review, and mine will most likely get overlooked by most, if it is read at all.

However, upon completing THE LONGEST RIDE, I could not do anything less than write a review. I admit that the book started out slow – well, it continued to plug along at a slow pace for much longer then I would typically stick with a book. MR SPARKS also breaks a few writing rules, that as a writer myself, have a hard time getting through such situations.

Having read a few of MR SPARKS books, as well as seeing several of his movies, and the fact that the writing – despite the overload of telling and back-story – intrigued me enough to continue, and so I did. Perhaps, having seen the movie trailer and a love for cowboys had something to do with it as well. Whatever the reason, I am SO happy that I didn't give up. It may have taken over half the book for the pace to pick up, but it was SOOOOOOO worth it!

Ira Levinson is trapped and dying. Will he get out of this situation, and if so, will he survive?

Despite what Sophia Danko’s best friend believes, she is not on the rebound…or is she? Luke and Sophia are from two different worlds, yet she can’t help but wonder if it will matter in the long run.

Luke Collins has a secret, of sorts. One that could end the relationship with Sophia Danko, the girl who is quickly stealing his heart. Given the choice between Sophia and his lifelong passion, which will win out?

As I was deep into the story, it finally hit me. What I believe to be the connection between Sophia, Ira and Luke . One of the things that I really loved about THE LONGEST RIDE is the element of surprise. The ability to lead the reader down one path, believing they have it figured out/which direction the author is taking the plot, just to have it swept out from beneath your feet. Before you have a chance to get too discourage - bam! Wow, what a powerful and memorable ending! I could not have asked for more. I am so thankful I did not give up on this amazing story.

I am now confronted with the struggle of going to seeing the movie. I hate to tarnish this amazing book with what I know is bound to happen with the movie, so typically of NICHOLAS SPARKS books made into movies. There will be changes, and more likely than not, important/big changes. As desperate am I to see the movie, I don’t want the brilliance of the book to be altered. For that reason, and that reason only, I am holding off as long as I can to see it. 

THE LONGEST RIDE is now on my list of top favorite books I’ve read. Only time will tell if the movie will be one that I will purchase and watch endlessly.

UPDATED 4/29/2015:


UGH!!! Just got back from the movie The Longest Ride! I knew it was going to happen. Happens every time. But still I went. And still I am shocked. Why, oh why, does Nicholas Sparks make the movie SOOOO different than the book. And we are not talking about little things, but HUGS BIG things. But here is what I didn't expect. The direction I thought the book was going, and didn't...the movie did! How in the world did that happen? Seriously. How? With that said, I still liked the movie. How could I not? There was a cowboy in it. Perhaps one of these days, Nicholas Sparks will shock us all, and actually stick to the book. I would love an opportunity to sit down and talk to the man to see why he does that.