Reviews

The Truth About Forever tells the story of Macy, a smart, disciplined girl who is focused on doing well on the SAT and temporarily filling in for Jason, her boyfriend, at the library's information desk. Everything is nice and perfect until an unappreciated email, a disorderly catering company, and a new sense of independence changes Macy's view on the world.

This was my first Sarah Dessen book and I truly did not know what to expect. In all honesty, I was ready for some cheesy, cliche love story that only focused on some hot, charming guy.

I was pleasantly surprised to find out that The Truth About Forever was definitely not about that. In fact, Macy's story was incredibly heartfelt and inspiring. Although of course it's a romance novel, the love interest wasn't forced upon her and the story delved deeply into Macy's relationship with her family members. Each character was fully developed and had a purpose in the plot.

One thing that should be noted is that not much goes on in The Truth About Forever. Quite a few past events are dwelled upon as Macy slowly comes to accept them. There are also many catering scenes. So many catering scenes. Get ready to read about meatballs and cheese puffs. It will make you hungry. Regardless, these scenes are either beautifully emotional or just plain fun, which show how Macy has grown throughout the book. This is mainly a character driven novel, not a plot driven novel, but it works amazingly. Dessen's focus on personal growth and individuality makes a wonderful theme; I will definitely check out more of her novels in the future.

michellechien930's review against another edition

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3.0

I didn't expect to say this, but I think I'm getting a bit old for Sarah Dessen. My first Sarah Dessen book was Along for the Ride, and I was a bit in love with all the characters and the setting of an idyllic seaside town (not so much the main love interest though). I came into The Truth About Forever expecting the same thing, but I quickly felt there was some kind of formulaic similarity to Dessen's many YA novels. I read it quick enough, and it's an alright read, just not satisfactory enough for me to stay up all night reading it. Maybe it's because I've been reading too many adult romance novels that have fiery, passionate scenes (OMG The Hating Game), but The Truth About Forever just seemed so bland. I felt absolutely nothing for the character Wes (I mean, I started seening him as a Jess Mariano type character from Gilmore Girls, but it still didn't do much for me). I didn't feel as attached to any of the characters actually (while reading Along for the Ride, I actually did love the stepmom and the girls at the shop), and the main protagonist was very meh. However, Sarah Dessen is an incredible writer, and it's relaxing to read. I just wish that there could be some kind of unexpected plot that didn't rely so much on the same structures of Dessen novels.

ebbyreads's review against another edition

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Boooooring. Slow paced and nothing happened

sgreen2307's review against another edition

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5.0

Amazing...definitely my favorite Sarah Dessen book. I love the relationship between Wes and Macy, as well as the on-going game of truth, but also the vulnerability of the two characters dealing with a big loss. If you loved any of her other books, you are sure to love this one. Just as great the second, third and every time after!

stephtherose_'s review against another edition

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4.0

Definitely the best Sarah Dessen I’ve read so far.

She writes such wonderful YA contemporary novels

cboooots's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

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