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コーヒーが冷めないうちに #5
やさしさを忘れぬうちに
ハリウッド映像化！ 世界３２０万部ベストセラーの
『コーヒーが冷めないうちに』、第５巻が発売！
「いつか」なんて待たずに、
すぐ会いに行けばよかった——。
结婚を许してやれなかった父、
バレンタインチョコを渡せなかった女、
离婚した両亲に笑颜を见せたい少年、
名前のない子供を抱いた妻……
止まってしまった「今」を
未来へと动かすために过去に戻る、
４人の男女の物语。
とある町の
とある喫茶店の
とある座席には不思议な都市伝説があった
その席に座るとその席に座っている间だけ
望んだ通りの「时间」に移动ができるという
ただし、そこにはめんどくさい……
非常にめんどくさいルールがあった
１．过去に戻っても、この喫茶店を访れたことのない者には会うことができない
２．过去に戻ってどんな努力をしても现実は変わらない
３．その席には常に白いワンピースを着た女が座っている
４．その席に座れるのはその女が席を立った时だけ
５．过去に戻っても、席を立って移动はできない
制限时间はカップにコーヒーを注いでから、
そのコーヒーが冷めるまでの间だけ
めんどくさいルールはこれだけではない
それにもかかわらず、今日も都市伝説の噂を闻いた客がこの喫茶店を访れる
喫茶店の名前は、フニクリフニクラ
この物语は、そんな不思议な喫茶店で起こった心温まる四つの奇跡。
『コーヒーが冷めないうちに』、第５巻が発売！
「いつか」なんて待たずに、
すぐ会いに行けばよかった——。
结婚を许してやれなかった父、
バレンタインチョコを渡せなかった女、
离婚した両亲に笑颜を见せたい少年、
名前のない子供を抱いた妻……
止まってしまった「今」を
未来へと动かすために过去に戻る、
４人の男女の物语。
とある町の
とある喫茶店の
とある座席には不思议な都市伝説があった
その席に座るとその席に座っている间だけ
望んだ通りの「时间」に移动ができるという
ただし、そこにはめんどくさい……
非常にめんどくさいルールがあった
１．过去に戻っても、この喫茶店を访れたことのない者には会うことができない
２．过去に戻ってどんな努力をしても现実は変わらない
３．その席には常に白いワンピースを着た女が座っている
４．その席に座れるのはその女が席を立った时だけ
５．过去に戻っても、席を立って移动はできない
制限时间はカップにコーヒーを注いでから、
そのコーヒーが冷めるまでの间だけ
めんどくさいルールはこれだけではない
それにもかかわらず、今日も都市伝説の噂を闻いた客がこの喫茶店を访れる
喫茶店の名前は、フニクリフニクラ
この物语は、そんな不思议な喫茶店で起こった心温まる四つの奇跡。
283 pages, Tankōbon
First published March 13, 2023
1,111 people are currently reading
50k people want to read
About the author
Toshikazu Kawaguchi
11?books5,878?followersToshikazu Kawaguchi (in Japanese: 川口 俊 和) was born in Osaka, Japan, in 1971. He formerly produced, directed and wrote for the theatrical group Sonic Snail. As a playwright, his works include COUPLE, Sunset Song, and Family Time. The novel Before the Coffee Gets Cold is adapted from a 1110 Productions play by Kawaguchi, which won the 10th Suginami Drama Festival grand prize.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,810 reviews
July 24, 2024
3.75 stars
at the enigmatic Funiculi Funicula café, a singular rule governs the temporal topography: from the precise moment the coffee is poured until it reaches its final, lukewarm destination, patrons are free to traverse the fabric of time, choosing any moment, second, or date that tantalizes their curiosity. yet, beware, for the café's mystical energies may exact a terrible toll: those who tamper with the past risk being cursed by a sorrowful fate, and the consequences of altering the timeline can be catastrophic.
the novel is comprised of four distinct narratives: 'The Son', 'The Nameless Child', 'The Father', and 'The Valentine'. however, despite their disparate storylines, they ultimately converge to convey a powerful theme: the profound sentiment of grief. the novel mourns the loss of the illusion of a family, where one's child will never experience the solidity of a father's presence, where a father will never get to witness a child's first moments of life, where one will never reconnect with their own estranged father, and where one will never have the chance to live their true love story.
overall, I found the novel to be a deeply moving and emotional experience, as it retraced different storylines to evoke a single, powerful essence. while the multitude of characters presented did occasionally lead to moments of confusion, I was able to keep track of most of them after a few pages. however, there were one or two instances where I had to double back to refresh my memory on certain character identities.
many thanks to publisher and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review
————-
i somehow got the ARC.. ???♀?
”as humans, we are wired to fear the unknown.”
at the enigmatic Funiculi Funicula café, a singular rule governs the temporal topography: from the precise moment the coffee is poured until it reaches its final, lukewarm destination, patrons are free to traverse the fabric of time, choosing any moment, second, or date that tantalizes their curiosity. yet, beware, for the café's mystical energies may exact a terrible toll: those who tamper with the past risk being cursed by a sorrowful fate, and the consequences of altering the timeline can be catastrophic.
”regret comes in two f lavors: actions taken and opportunities missed. the regret from doing something stems from either not being able to undo it, or the awful outcome, such as hurting someone with an insensitive comment, or feeling wretched after declaring one’s love.”
the novel is comprised of four distinct narratives: 'The Son', 'The Nameless Child', 'The Father', and 'The Valentine'. however, despite their disparate storylines, they ultimately converge to convey a powerful theme: the profound sentiment of grief. the novel mourns the loss of the illusion of a family, where one's child will never experience the solidity of a father's presence, where a father will never get to witness a child's first moments of life, where one will never reconnect with their own estranged father, and where one will never have the chance to live their true love story.
”In this world, there are countless situations where sound reasoning doesn’t necessarily lead to the right answer.”
overall, I found the novel to be a deeply moving and emotional experience, as it retraced different storylines to evoke a single, powerful essence. while the multitude of characters presented did occasionally lead to moments of confusion, I was able to keep track of most of them after a few pages. however, there were one or two instances where I had to double back to refresh my memory on certain character identities.
“but to die without ever conveying my feelings is an even greater torment.”
many thanks to publisher and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review
————-
i somehow got the ARC.. ???♀?
January 20, 2025
Sadly, I am the lady in white in the book. So yes, that’s my level of interest while reading the book.
.
.
.
Of course, it’s supposed to be emotional and sad and wholesome. Of course, I felt like a robot which couldn’t feel emotions while reading the book. Yes, this has been my issue ever since the first book.
What almost always kills my interest while reading a book in this series:
1. Over explanation of the characters’ feelings and emotions and what they are supposedly feeling. Let the reader feel what we are supposed to feel. Just tell the damn story.
For a short book this short, it felt too long for nothing.
But I read the short book in one sitting. Cos it’s quite readable! That’s my favourite part.
Here’s my main stages of thoughts while reading the book (as happened with the first four books):
1. (Just starting the book stage) Wow this book is really good and I am ready to cry!
2. Well, the good part ended too soon
3. Over explanation starts from the second story (yes, this is a formula for each book in the series by now if you haven’t noticed it yet!)
4. Emotions on the characters seem so forced most of the time
5. The sense of superiority in the writing trying to repeatedly explain the secret of the cafe over and over again like everyone else in the galaxy is dumb af that it gets preachy pretty fast
6. Most adult characters when they “meet” their loved ones seem to dramatically change out of their character (yes, they are going to the past for similar reasons but it tends to be a bit unbelievable in most situations)
7. Maybe it’s the translation I have a problem with but nah, most unlikely as I have no issues with the flow
8. Why am I still reading the books in a series which I didn’t even like the first book?!
Well, blame it on the irresistible cover.
Just start a new book already and I am going to read it for sure.
The plot of the book is getting old and it’s past its prime. It’s time for the next book or series.
Somehow we are reading this one because of the cover, how short it is and how readable it is.
Who will like this book better:
The reader who loves reading supposedly emotionally packed books but really does not want to cry in public while holding a very pretty book to cause envy from the onlookers.
Well…. Most unlikely.
But seriously pick up this book only if you loved one of the previous books in the series. Not for the FOMO. It won’t do much but waste your time.
.
.
.
Of course, it’s supposed to be emotional and sad and wholesome. Of course, I felt like a robot which couldn’t feel emotions while reading the book. Yes, this has been my issue ever since the first book.
What almost always kills my interest while reading a book in this series:
1. Over explanation of the characters’ feelings and emotions and what they are supposedly feeling. Let the reader feel what we are supposed to feel. Just tell the damn story.
For a short book this short, it felt too long for nothing.
But I read the short book in one sitting. Cos it’s quite readable! That’s my favourite part.
Here’s my main stages of thoughts while reading the book (as happened with the first four books):
1. (Just starting the book stage) Wow this book is really good and I am ready to cry!
2. Well, the good part ended too soon
3. Over explanation starts from the second story (yes, this is a formula for each book in the series by now if you haven’t noticed it yet!)
4. Emotions on the characters seem so forced most of the time
5. The sense of superiority in the writing trying to repeatedly explain the secret of the cafe over and over again like everyone else in the galaxy is dumb af that it gets preachy pretty fast
6. Most adult characters when they “meet” their loved ones seem to dramatically change out of their character (yes, they are going to the past for similar reasons but it tends to be a bit unbelievable in most situations)
7. Maybe it’s the translation I have a problem with but nah, most unlikely as I have no issues with the flow
8. Why am I still reading the books in a series which I didn’t even like the first book?!
Well, blame it on the irresistible cover.
Just start a new book already and I am going to read it for sure.
The plot of the book is getting old and it’s past its prime. It’s time for the next book or series.
Somehow we are reading this one because of the cover, how short it is and how readable it is.
Who will like this book better:
The reader who loves reading supposedly emotionally packed books but really does not want to cry in public while holding a very pretty book to cause envy from the onlookers.
Well…. Most unlikely.
But seriously pick up this book only if you loved one of the previous books in the series. Not for the FOMO. It won’t do much but waste your time.
November 3, 2024
Yay! I've been waiting for a new book in the series since I finished the fourth one. I missed being immersed in this café's atmosphere and the characters' interactions with the visitors going to the past or the future.
There's something liberating about reading these heartwarming tales. A warm atmosphere in here I was happy to be back to reminded me of being on a summer vacation, sittting in the sunshine, nothing to do but read my book and enjoy the day and yet another tale I couldn't bring myself to put aside and brought along with me. It's chilly outside today but this book made me forget about grey clouds and cold but whispering wind I actually love listening to. The wind somehow represented an element of uncertainty, at the same time urgency of the different paths the characters were facing and had to choose. Whooshing and swaying, staying still for a moment then going whispering again.
This installment was yet another gentle touch to the already fascinating series of the books, adding yet more charm and heart to them. ?
Dreamworlds by Lily (Sugarmints Artwork)
There's something liberating about reading these heartwarming tales. A warm atmosphere in here I was happy to be back to reminded me of being on a summer vacation, sittting in the sunshine, nothing to do but read my book and enjoy the day and yet another tale I couldn't bring myself to put aside and brought along with me. It's chilly outside today but this book made me forget about grey clouds and cold but whispering wind I actually love listening to. The wind somehow represented an element of uncertainty, at the same time urgency of the different paths the characters were facing and had to choose. Whooshing and swaying, staying still for a moment then going whispering again.
This installment was yet another gentle touch to the already fascinating series of the books, adding yet more charm and heart to them. ?
Dreamworlds by Lily (Sugarmints Artwork)
February 4, 2024
5 / 5 ?
I CAN’T STOP CRYING I HATE THIS BOOK
I CAN’T STOP CRYING I HATE THIS BOOK
November 6, 2024
Like the other books in this series, this installment about the Japanese café that allows for time travel if one follows certain rules is as soothing and warm-hearted as ever.
These simple stories of people longing to undo a major regret are filled with grace and forgiveness.
For some reason, I felt less connected with the characters in this book. I felt like I needed to hear more about the regular characters instead of having them just hang around in the background. They help ground the other stories, so I missed getting to know them better in this installment.
As always, thanks so much to Libro FM for the gifted audiobook. The narrator had a very soothing voice, which perfectly accompanies the book’s overall tone.
These simple stories of people longing to undo a major regret are filled with grace and forgiveness.
For some reason, I felt less connected with the characters in this book. I felt like I needed to hear more about the regular characters instead of having them just hang around in the background. They help ground the other stories, so I missed getting to know them better in this installment.
As always, thanks so much to Libro FM for the gifted audiobook. The narrator had a very soothing voice, which perfectly accompanies the book’s overall tone.
January 13, 2024
*read in Mandarin
Basically the same as books 1-4 but I still cried a bunch ??
Basically the same as books 1-4 but I still cried a bunch ??
October 8, 2024
Is this book a clear cash grab? Yes. Is the plot repetitive and the exact same as the first four books? Yes. Will I buy the inevitable sequel? Probably. Is this Stockholm Syndrome?
October 15, 2024
As always, thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!
I have been looking forward to this book since I read the other 4 books in the series in May. I devoured those books in 4 days, which meant crying my eyes out for 4 days.
...I don't know what happened but I feel like a different person wrote this book compared to the other 4 books in the series. The way the different stories were told in this book was completely different than the previous books. The stories were so matter of fact and perhaps 3 or 4 pages of each short story was really engaging and as emotional as the previous books, but this one fell flat. I caught myself skimming half the book. I am so disappointed. Luckily, you can read each book as a stand alone so this one isn't needed to fill in anything from previous books.
I have been looking forward to this book since I read the other 4 books in the series in May. I devoured those books in 4 days, which meant crying my eyes out for 4 days.
...I don't know what happened but I feel like a different person wrote this book compared to the other 4 books in the series. The way the different stories were told in this book was completely different than the previous books. The stories were so matter of fact and perhaps 3 or 4 pages of each short story was really engaging and as emotional as the previous books, but this one fell flat. I caught myself skimming half the book. I am so disappointed. Luckily, you can read each book as a stand alone so this one isn't needed to fill in anything from previous books.
August 22, 2024
??????????
This is by far the most emotional book in the series. I sobbed while reading these.
The first story didn’t grip as much, but the other three… I am still a mess just thinking about them.
I absolutely love this series, the stories are so heartfelt and often heartbreaking, but wouldn’t you do anything for a chance to go back in time to be with someone you loved?
Friends, pleaseeeee read this series. Each one gets better, and this was beautiful.
Thank you to Pan MacMillan and the team at BookBreak for my advanced reader copy. Also, thank you for including the tissues.
This is by far the most emotional book in the series. I sobbed while reading these.
The first story didn’t grip as much, but the other three… I am still a mess just thinking about them.
I absolutely love this series, the stories are so heartfelt and often heartbreaking, but wouldn’t you do anything for a chance to go back in time to be with someone you loved?
Friends, pleaseeeee read this series. Each one gets better, and this was beautiful.
Thank you to Pan MacMillan and the team at BookBreak for my advanced reader copy. Also, thank you for including the tissues.
August 27, 2024
2.5/3 stars
Overall the book was sad much more than I expected. It creates an illusion of how we portray family and how we can’t change little things from the past that we think will sway the direction of our future life path. There was four different stories and as heartbreaking as this was I couldn’t connect to the story or the characters. We still have the same premise of going to the cafe and coming back before the coffee gets cold but maybe being the fifth book the plot of the cafe could change like a switch up of rules.
I got the arc of this how exciting thank you so much NetGalley
Overall the book was sad much more than I expected. It creates an illusion of how we portray family and how we can’t change little things from the past that we think will sway the direction of our future life path. There was four different stories and as heartbreaking as this was I couldn’t connect to the story or the characters. We still have the same premise of going to the cafe and coming back before the coffee gets cold but maybe being the fifth book the plot of the cafe could change like a switch up of rules.
I got the arc of this how exciting thank you so much NetGalley
September 19, 2024
This book follows the clear pattern of the whole series. Even though I loved the first books, it starts feeling too repetitive now. In every chapter, all the rules and all the characters are introduced again, and that is also too reptitive. However, two of the stories were nice and heartwarming. But yeah, I would rate it as 3.5 stars.
November 24, 2024
i just adore these books so much and can't wait for number 6
January 2, 2025
the first book I finished this year, my first 5? book, my most anticipated book and probably my number 1 book of the year........
this pretty much sums up my feelings towards this book
this pretty much sums up my feelings towards this book
July 6, 2024
This story is largely set in a café called Funiculi Funicula in Jimbocho, in the Kanda area in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, with a sign on the corner of an alley. The name seems to have no particular reason. But what makes this café stand apart from others is that it seems, as word gets around, that the coffee one could order could also take you back in time. Not permanently, there is a set amount of time, but enough time to connect and ask their questions or share their regrets, all within a limited period of time - the time it takes from the beginning to end is from the time the coffee is poured, and ends just before the coffee gets cold.
In order to begin the journey to the past, there is a special chair in the café, which one needs to wait for a particular chair in the café, which a certain customer will be occupying, and you must wait until that person to leave the chair, and visit the restroom. Then you may sit in the chair which will take you back in time, but you must stay on the chair while you are in the past. And there is another stipulation, who you can go back to meet is limited to those who have visited the cafe previously.
This is the fifth book in the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series, but not having read the ones that preceded this one, I enjoyed it as a stand alone read.
At 240 pages, this is a relatively short read, but it explores so many regrets that people have had over the years, and the sorrows that follow. The questions never asked, the questions never answered.
Pub Date: 05 Nov 2024
Many thanks to for the ARC provided by Harlequin Trade Publishing / Hanover Square Press
December 3, 2024
“Before We Forget Kindness” by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is a continuation of his series, Before the Coffee Gets Cold. This is actually the first book in this series that I have read. I love the concept of being able to time travel, but only in a coffee shop, with certain rules that you must follow. I loved the plot lines developed in this book, particularly the last that revolves around a missed chance for love between two girl best friends. I think I will probably pick up the first book, but I don’t know if I will feel inclined to pick up every book in the series. The writing was lovely, thanks to both the original author and the translator.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 22, 2024
This fifth book in the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series was such a touching read! We’re back at the mysterious café where visitors can go back in time, but only if they follow the rule of returning before their coffee gets cold. This time, we meet four new characters, each with their own emotional journey. There’s the father who couldn’t accept his daughter’s marriage, the woman who never gave her Valentine’s chocolates to her love, a boy who wants to show his smile to his divorced parents, and a mother holding a nameless child.
I loved how each story was so different, yet all connected by the theme of regret and longing for closure. The book is relatively short but manages to dive deep into these characters’ sorrows and hopes. What always gets me about this series is how quietly powerful it is. The café setting is cozy and almost magical. Each visit feels like a comforting return, even though every story hits me right in the emotions.
This one, just like the previous books, had me feeling so much by the end. It’s not flashy or full of plot twists, but that’s part of its charm. It’s all about human connection, forgiveness, and finding peace with the past. I’d recommend this to anyone who has read the earlier books because it definitely continues to deliver that same quiet, bittersweet beauty. If you’ve followed the series this far, you won’t want to miss this next chapter.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved how each story was so different, yet all connected by the theme of regret and longing for closure. The book is relatively short but manages to dive deep into these characters’ sorrows and hopes. What always gets me about this series is how quietly powerful it is. The café setting is cozy and almost magical. Each visit feels like a comforting return, even though every story hits me right in the emotions.
This one, just like the previous books, had me feeling so much by the end. It’s not flashy or full of plot twists, but that’s part of its charm. It’s all about human connection, forgiveness, and finding peace with the past. I’d recommend this to anyone who has read the earlier books because it definitely continues to deliver that same quiet, bittersweet beauty. If you’ve followed the series this far, you won’t want to miss this next chapter.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 23, 2025
2.5
I have truly loved most of the books in this series, but I think I might be done with it after this installment. With the other installments, I was hoping that each character (even though some of them had made terrible mistakes in their lives) would get the reconciliation or closure they were seeking. Many of the characters in this one, though, were so unlikable that I didn’t even care to see those moments of forgiveness or reuniting.
We’ve got manipulative parents making their young child choose between them, abusive relationships that were kind of blamed on a character not honoring her parents’ wishes, a selfish woman who let her envy destroy what could have been a lifelong friendship, and a queer trope that should be long behind us by now even in a country that generally has more conservative views on the topic.
I did enjoy a few aspects of the book that are making me consider whether to round up to 3 or down to 2. I loved that we learned some of the mechanics behind the time travel and had some different scenarios we’ve not seen before with how the traveling is done. I also related quite a bit to one of the stories because of the character’s complicated relationship with her father and her feelings because of that.
Overall though, this book felt disappointing to me as compared to the rest of the series.
I have truly loved most of the books in this series, but I think I might be done with it after this installment. With the other installments, I was hoping that each character (even though some of them had made terrible mistakes in their lives) would get the reconciliation or closure they were seeking. Many of the characters in this one, though, were so unlikable that I didn’t even care to see those moments of forgiveness or reuniting.
We’ve got manipulative parents making their young child choose between them, abusive relationships that were kind of blamed on a character not honoring her parents’ wishes, a selfish woman who let her envy destroy what could have been a lifelong friendship, and a queer trope that should be long behind us by now even in a country that generally has more conservative views on the topic.
I did enjoy a few aspects of the book that are making me consider whether to round up to 3 or down to 2. I loved that we learned some of the mechanics behind the time travel and had some different scenarios we’ve not seen before with how the traveling is done. I also related quite a bit to one of the stories because of the character’s complicated relationship with her father and her feelings because of that.
Overall though, this book felt disappointing to me as compared to the rest of the series.
Want to read
April 24, 2024I can't find the English translated version anywhere, HELP
July 22, 2024
E-arc provided by Netgalley
The issue I have with this book is the same one I have for every book in this series and that's that not only in the beginning of the book but in each story they explain the rules of the cafe and by the end of the book you've heard they same damn thing like 4 or 5 times, overall this was a fine addition and basically a carbon copy of every other book in the series
The issue I have with this book is the same one I have for every book in this series and that's that not only in the beginning of the book but in each story they explain the rules of the cafe and by the end of the book you've heard they same damn thing like 4 or 5 times, overall this was a fine addition and basically a carbon copy of every other book in the series
November 6, 2024
Before we forget kindness, 5th book in a massively popular series by Toshikazu Kawaguchi & translated by Geoffrey Trousselot is a heartwarming stories on kindness. Of how we sometimes forget that being kind is the key in healthy relationship. The charm of the series lies on the emotional strings of these characters brought with their personal background stories. I get why people love the series a lot and how it gained popularity because at its heart, I think we all craves for the compassion & humane potrayal of the stories in here
In the latest installment, there are 4 characters who want to travel back in time just to see the person they loved. From a son whom torn apart about his divorced parents as he truly want to make both of his parents happy while also being so selfishly kind of not caring about his own feeling. The Nameless child tells about a wife wanting to meet her husband who died before her childbirth so that he can name their child & when she did, realizing that her husband is not a childish man but a kind person that truly cared about other people. The Father showed a father strained relationship with his daughter after their fight caused the daughter to elope & lost contact for years after her marriage, the regret & guilt ridden father wanted to see his daughter again. Lastly, Valentine told on a broken friendship due to envy which by the end revealed of the heartbreaks & unfulfilled love between the two friends
As a premise, the concept of this book is interesting, its well written too with the focus on relationship, gleaning on topics of marriage, love & understanding, emotion, feelings, communication, and how we tend to take things for granted. Its a decently warm book with a lot of hearts & soul in it. Some of the anecdotes in here reminded me of the true key in relationships, of appreciating the time you have, to understand that kindness come from the heart & to fully embrace how being kind to others is a gift
All in all, I enjoyed this one more than expected so if u love heartwarming book, this one is for you
Review copy by @definitelybooks , thank u sm ??
In the latest installment, there are 4 characters who want to travel back in time just to see the person they loved. From a son whom torn apart about his divorced parents as he truly want to make both of his parents happy while also being so selfishly kind of not caring about his own feeling. The Nameless child tells about a wife wanting to meet her husband who died before her childbirth so that he can name their child & when she did, realizing that her husband is not a childish man but a kind person that truly cared about other people. The Father showed a father strained relationship with his daughter after their fight caused the daughter to elope & lost contact for years after her marriage, the regret & guilt ridden father wanted to see his daughter again. Lastly, Valentine told on a broken friendship due to envy which by the end revealed of the heartbreaks & unfulfilled love between the two friends
As a premise, the concept of this book is interesting, its well written too with the focus on relationship, gleaning on topics of marriage, love & understanding, emotion, feelings, communication, and how we tend to take things for granted. Its a decently warm book with a lot of hearts & soul in it. Some of the anecdotes in here reminded me of the true key in relationships, of appreciating the time you have, to understand that kindness come from the heart & to fully embrace how being kind to others is a gift
All in all, I enjoyed this one more than expected so if u love heartwarming book, this one is for you
Review copy by @definitelybooks , thank u sm ??
January 1, 2025
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March 19, 2025
It didn’t give me much new, but will I read every one that comes out in this series? Yes
2.75 ??
Maybe RTC
2.75 ??
Maybe RTC
October 29, 2024
2.5/5
Unfortunately, I think after this one I won't be continuing with the "Before The Coffee Gets Cold" series. Don't get me wrong, some of the stories are excellent (like the last one of this book, the Alzheimer's story of the first one, and the dog one of book four) but the rest were just so repetitive or were baffling to me with how the characters could be so unlikable that reading these at this point feels like a chore rather than a good time. I also genuinely feel like Toshikazu Kawaguchi is trying so hard to capture the magic of the first book in this series that he is beating a dead horse at this point. I know Ive mentioned that in previous reviews but it's very apparent that's what's happening now. Between repeating the time travel rules every other page, unnecessary oversaturated dialogue, and the mentioning of the characters being shocked about the female ghost over and over again I just can't deal with it anymore. I swear I'll be eighty years old and still remember the coffee time travel rules because it was drilled into my head so many times. So, at this point, I don't think it would be fair of me to continue the series. I'll let his die hard fans who actually enjoy these books be spared from my constant nagging and nit-picking. Now for what I thought about each of the stories individually...
*The Son:
Well, this is off to a bad start already. As I said in reviews of Kawaguchis previous books I can't tell if the situations he puts us in is baffling to me due to a cultural difference or the fact that he hasn't ever had a real interaction with actual humans in his life. I'm sorry, who the f*** tells their child they are getting a divorce on Christmas? After giving him an awesome day as a family at Disneyland? That is just cruelty at its finest. Then to actually tell your seven year old child that the reason you got divorced is because you both had other people you were interested in? Ughhhhh.....that's just weird. This story is weird. Yuki's reason for wanting to go back in the past is super sweet but his parents absolutely don't deserve it. Yikes. Those conversations should have been put on hold until he was much older and the divorce conversation could have at least waited until after the Christmas holidays so he doesn't think about it every year. Absolutely selfish.
*The Nameless Child:
Thank goodness this one wasn't as weird and devoid of sense as the first story. Just a heartwarming story of a woman going back in time to have her deceased husband name their child. A heartfelt story with a good gut punch and familiar characters from the first book in the series. The only negative so far that I'm seeing (this was also in the first story) is that Kawaguchi seems to be writing like he has to turn in a school essay with a word count. He keeps going on these random tangents and repeating the same phrases or ideas over and over again. He did this in his other novels too I'm starting to notice. Especially the cafe rules...I swear I'll be able to remember the cafe rules for time travel until the day I die because he has said it so many times.
*The Father:
This one was decent. A story of regret and not understanding how precious your family relationships are until it's too late. A daughter eloped against her father's wishes and everything resumes from there. This one could have been much shorter than what is was because, once again, Kawaguchi feels the need to retell the rules of the cafe...again. Also again to repeat how creepy the ghost woman is or to give a long winded backstory that's not necessary.
*The Valentine:
Well...that one definitely got me. I'm absolutely sobbing like a baby right now. Why on earth did this whole book irritate me and then finally at the very end gut punch me and make my heart feel like it's going to explode. Ughhhhhh....as a woman who also loves women and is in a relationship with one this hurts. This was great and it sucked at the same time. That ending was devastating. I am making absolutely no sense right now and my review is definitely going to be no longer eloquent due to just this paragraph but I don't care. Thanks Kawaguchi for reminding me of all my young angst at all the times I would fall for a girl and never be able to say anything. Haha! At least, I have had a happy ending enough. Even though, I don't plan on reading anymore of this series because I just can't be bothered and I don't like it enough this was an excellent way to end my time with it on. I couldn't be happier.
Unfortunately, I think after this one I won't be continuing with the "Before The Coffee Gets Cold" series. Don't get me wrong, some of the stories are excellent (like the last one of this book, the Alzheimer's story of the first one, and the dog one of book four) but the rest were just so repetitive or were baffling to me with how the characters could be so unlikable that reading these at this point feels like a chore rather than a good time. I also genuinely feel like Toshikazu Kawaguchi is trying so hard to capture the magic of the first book in this series that he is beating a dead horse at this point. I know Ive mentioned that in previous reviews but it's very apparent that's what's happening now. Between repeating the time travel rules every other page, unnecessary oversaturated dialogue, and the mentioning of the characters being shocked about the female ghost over and over again I just can't deal with it anymore. I swear I'll be eighty years old and still remember the coffee time travel rules because it was drilled into my head so many times. So, at this point, I don't think it would be fair of me to continue the series. I'll let his die hard fans who actually enjoy these books be spared from my constant nagging and nit-picking. Now for what I thought about each of the stories individually...
*The Son:
Well, this is off to a bad start already. As I said in reviews of Kawaguchis previous books I can't tell if the situations he puts us in is baffling to me due to a cultural difference or the fact that he hasn't ever had a real interaction with actual humans in his life. I'm sorry, who the f*** tells their child they are getting a divorce on Christmas? After giving him an awesome day as a family at Disneyland? That is just cruelty at its finest. Then to actually tell your seven year old child that the reason you got divorced is because you both had other people you were interested in? Ughhhhh.....that's just weird. This story is weird. Yuki's reason for wanting to go back in the past is super sweet but his parents absolutely don't deserve it. Yikes. Those conversations should have been put on hold until he was much older and the divorce conversation could have at least waited until after the Christmas holidays so he doesn't think about it every year. Absolutely selfish.
*The Nameless Child:
Thank goodness this one wasn't as weird and devoid of sense as the first story. Just a heartwarming story of a woman going back in time to have her deceased husband name their child. A heartfelt story with a good gut punch and familiar characters from the first book in the series. The only negative so far that I'm seeing (this was also in the first story) is that Kawaguchi seems to be writing like he has to turn in a school essay with a word count. He keeps going on these random tangents and repeating the same phrases or ideas over and over again. He did this in his other novels too I'm starting to notice. Especially the cafe rules...I swear I'll be able to remember the cafe rules for time travel until the day I die because he has said it so many times.
*The Father:
This one was decent. A story of regret and not understanding how precious your family relationships are until it's too late. A daughter eloped against her father's wishes and everything resumes from there. This one could have been much shorter than what is was because, once again, Kawaguchi feels the need to retell the rules of the cafe...again. Also again to repeat how creepy the ghost woman is or to give a long winded backstory that's not necessary.
*The Valentine:
Well...that one definitely got me. I'm absolutely sobbing like a baby right now. Why on earth did this whole book irritate me and then finally at the very end gut punch me and make my heart feel like it's going to explode. Ughhhhhh....as a woman who also loves women and is in a relationship with one this hurts. This was great and it sucked at the same time. That ending was devastating. I am making absolutely no sense right now and my review is definitely going to be no longer eloquent due to just this paragraph but I don't care. Thanks Kawaguchi for reminding me of all my young angst at all the times I would fall for a girl and never be able to say anything. Haha! At least, I have had a happy ending enough. Even though, I don't plan on reading anymore of this series because I just can't be bothered and I don't like it enough this was an excellent way to end my time with it on. I couldn't be happier.
September 18, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
There is only a month or so until release day for this lovely book, and I must say it is the perfect fall book. Every short story enraptured me, and I loved each of the unique themes that the story had. The characters were all so different, and each learned an important lesson from their time travel.
The magic, the vibes, everything was so perfect for fall! I definitely recommend it!! I cannot wait to read all of the other books from this series <33
There is only a month or so until release day for this lovely book, and I must say it is the perfect fall book. Every short story enraptured me, and I loved each of the unique themes that the story had. The characters were all so different, and each learned an important lesson from their time travel.
The magic, the vibes, everything was so perfect for fall! I definitely recommend it!! I cannot wait to read all of the other books from this series <33
December 12, 2024
The last story ?
March 4, 2025
I absolutely love this series and I'm amazed it took me this long to read Book 5. Let me rate and review each of the four stories chronologically here:-
1. A boy who wants to show his smile to his divorced parents. ★★★★☆
This really brought out my weepy side because the son really deserved better. He put the kindness in the title of this volume, for sure. And yet, I couldn't really fault the parents for seeking happiness elsewhere. This story put life into perspective. Sometimes people make each other sad and there's no way around it. There's nothing malicious about it, it's just how it has to be. Inevitable.
2. A wife holding a child with no name. ★★★★★
Oh god this ripped my heart out. I felt so wretched at the idea of the fireman husband and how utterly innocent and childlike and lovable he was. He didn't deserve that. He should have been able to kick the asses of all the deadbeats who ever came knocking on his daughter's door. Ahhhhh this was such a tissue alert.
I didn't like the wife all that much though. But her choice of husband definitely made up for all else. He DRANK the coffee for her ahhhhhhh I criedddddd
He was soooo gooood. I loved how hard he loved his family.
3. The father who could not allow his daughter to get married. ★★★★☆
I started off thinking the father was cold and unforgiving but turned out to really be surprised at how wrong my assumption was. It's sad that going back in the past changes nothing. I wish the daughter could have received some help earlier but at least the father got some closure before it all.
The daughter really should have sought help rather than hold on to her false sense of ego or shame. There's no shame in asking your father for help. Nothing brings my father more joy than being of help to me and vice versa. Or maybe I'm just lucky to have that kind of a relationship with my dad. Hard to say.
4. A woman who couldn't give Valentine's Day chocolates to her loved one. ★★★☆☆
I liked this story the least for the majority of it. One of the two friends was so shallow and I loved Hirai calling her out on it. I get it though. We've all been insecure teens but this woman took it too far and I didn't enjoy reading her perspective.
I liked Ayame though and what she went through was so incredibly unfair that it broke my heart even more. *sobs in a tissue*
This series always leaves me a sobbing mess. *sigh*
And I wouldn't have it any other way. ??
1. A boy who wants to show his smile to his divorced parents. ★★★★☆
This really brought out my weepy side because the son really deserved better. He put the kindness in the title of this volume, for sure. And yet, I couldn't really fault the parents for seeking happiness elsewhere. This story put life into perspective. Sometimes people make each other sad and there's no way around it. There's nothing malicious about it, it's just how it has to be. Inevitable.
2. A wife holding a child with no name. ★★★★★
Oh god this ripped my heart out. I felt so wretched at the idea of the fireman husband and how utterly innocent and childlike and lovable he was. He didn't deserve that. He should have been able to kick the asses of all the deadbeats who ever came knocking on his daughter's door. Ahhhhh this was such a tissue alert.
I didn't like the wife all that much though. But her choice of husband definitely made up for all else. He DRANK the coffee for her ahhhhhhh I criedddddd
He was soooo gooood. I loved how hard he loved his family.
3. The father who could not allow his daughter to get married. ★★★★☆
I started off thinking the father was cold and unforgiving but turned out to really be surprised at how wrong my assumption was. It's sad that going back in the past changes nothing. I wish the daughter could have received some help earlier but at least the father got some closure before it all.
The daughter really should have sought help rather than hold on to her false sense of ego or shame. There's no shame in asking your father for help. Nothing brings my father more joy than being of help to me and vice versa. Or maybe I'm just lucky to have that kind of a relationship with my dad. Hard to say.
4. A woman who couldn't give Valentine's Day chocolates to her loved one. ★★★☆☆
I liked this story the least for the majority of it. One of the two friends was so shallow and I loved Hirai calling her out on it. I get it though. We've all been insecure teens but this woman took it too far and I didn't enjoy reading her perspective.
I liked Ayame though and what she went through was so incredibly unfair that it broke my heart even more. *sobs in a tissue*
This series always leaves me a sobbing mess. *sigh*
And I wouldn't have it any other way. ??
January 4, 2025
This book is the best one out of all the already published ones from this (ongoing?) series?????
I also have to brag a bit - I managed to get my hands on a signed version of this book SKLSIYKSKSMTAHL-
*y e s*
As I have already mentioned, this book really stuck out to me in comparison to the previous parts; the emphasis this time, or a rather gentle reminder, would be that we should probably be nicer to each other, you know, before it’s too late
I mean, if you’re okay with getting emotionally ambushed by a simple conversation or a fleeting memory, then you’ll find beauty in its quieter moments, since the pacing is quite slow, whilst also letting yourself settle at your own pace into the depths of the characters' emotions
The stories we get this time:
'The Son' - very heartwarming story of a boy that deeply cares about his parents; such an emotionally mature and considerate child?
'The Nameless Child' - a mother that wanted her late husband to name their child; loved the description of the time parallels at the end of this story
'The Father' - a very touching story of a daughter and her father and their rebuilt relationship *yes, I have indeed shed a tear reading this one*
'The Valentine' - an (unrequited?) love story; a story that was abruptly stopped due to one‘s illness and other's pride/jealousy
Overall, a well-executed exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a beautifully melancholic package????
I also have to brag a bit - I managed to get my hands on a signed version of this book SKLSIYKSKSMTAHL-
*y e s*
As I have already mentioned, this book really stuck out to me in comparison to the previous parts; the emphasis this time, or a rather gentle reminder, would be that we should probably be nicer to each other, you know, before it’s too late
I mean, if you’re okay with getting emotionally ambushed by a simple conversation or a fleeting memory, then you’ll find beauty in its quieter moments, since the pacing is quite slow, whilst also letting yourself settle at your own pace into the depths of the characters' emotions
The stories we get this time:
'The Son' - very heartwarming story of a boy that deeply cares about his parents; such an emotionally mature and considerate child?
'The Nameless Child' - a mother that wanted her late husband to name their child; loved the description of the time parallels at the end of this story
'The Father' - a very touching story of a daughter and her father and their rebuilt relationship *yes, I have indeed shed a tear reading this one*
'The Valentine' - an (unrequited?) love story; a story that was abruptly stopped due to one‘s illness and other's pride/jealousy
Overall, a well-executed exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a beautifully melancholic package????
October 7, 2024
I cried while reading this on a tram. So good
November 3, 2024
Before We Forget Kindness" is the fifth installment in the "Before the Coffee Gets Cold" series, and it’s clear that this series just keeps getting better. I absolutely loved the fifth book the most! The stories evoke powerful emotions, making it a captivating quick read. The translation is also seamless, which enhances the overall reading experience.
I enjoyed all four stories as they evoked emotions and also provided some life lessons, except "The Valentine," with which I didn't connect much. However, I could not agree more with this quote from this story: "Dying without being able to express my feelings would be even more painful."
"The Son" is a story about Yuki, the youngest customer who has traveled back in time. This story tugged at my heart and moved me to tears. His intentions genuinely broke my heart. He loves his parents profoundly and wants them to find happiness, even if the happiness is elsewhere.
"The Nameless Child" is about Megumi wanting to return to the past and get her husband to name their child. They were supposed to do it after the child was born, but her husband died in an accident before the birth of their child. I really like Riuji. He is a great husband, and his kindness stands out, even when Megumi returns to the past. It’s both heartwarming and bittersweet. I couldn't hold back my tears when I read the part where Riuji imagines his future with his daughter. I appreciated Megumi's decision to bring their child back to the past.
"The Father" highlights the exceptional nature of a father's love. The narrative delves into the unique qualities of this bond, showcasing the strength, guidance, and sometimes tough love that fathers offer. I appreciate this story not only for its emotional depth but also for how it captures the complexities and nuances of paternal affection. Furthermore, a letter from a daughter to her father is always meaningful, regardless of when it is delivered.
Overall, this book maintains the charm of its story and elevates the series to new heights, leaving a lasting impression. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking an enjoyable read with valuable insights. 4 ★
Book courtesy: @definitelybooks , Thank You ??
I enjoyed all four stories as they evoked emotions and also provided some life lessons, except "The Valentine," with which I didn't connect much. However, I could not agree more with this quote from this story: "Dying without being able to express my feelings would be even more painful."
"The Son" is a story about Yuki, the youngest customer who has traveled back in time. This story tugged at my heart and moved me to tears. His intentions genuinely broke my heart. He loves his parents profoundly and wants them to find happiness, even if the happiness is elsewhere.
"The Nameless Child" is about Megumi wanting to return to the past and get her husband to name their child. They were supposed to do it after the child was born, but her husband died in an accident before the birth of their child. I really like Riuji. He is a great husband, and his kindness stands out, even when Megumi returns to the past. It’s both heartwarming and bittersweet. I couldn't hold back my tears when I read the part where Riuji imagines his future with his daughter. I appreciated Megumi's decision to bring their child back to the past.
"The Father" highlights the exceptional nature of a father's love. The narrative delves into the unique qualities of this bond, showcasing the strength, guidance, and sometimes tough love that fathers offer. I appreciate this story not only for its emotional depth but also for how it captures the complexities and nuances of paternal affection. Furthermore, a letter from a daughter to her father is always meaningful, regardless of when it is delivered.
Overall, this book maintains the charm of its story and elevates the series to new heights, leaving a lasting impression. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking an enjoyable read with valuable insights. 4 ★
Book courtesy: @definitelybooks , Thank You ??
November 1, 2024
I actually love the casual lesbian representation???
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