A review by risseandshine
The Problem with Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

"Forever was something we all took for granted, but the problem with forever was that it really didn't exist."

Wow. The way this book chose to be as vulnerable as it did smacked me right in the face. I'd also like to give credits to myself for choosing to read this book at the most perfect time. I didn't know I would need this book until I flipped the last page.

This book reads more than just a YA romance. It's about two scarred and bruised characters finding each other again, falling in love, while also battling their demons in the process. 

Mallory was one of the most relatable characters I have ever read. I did not go through the same experience as she did, but the aftermath is pretty close. I wanted to give her the biggest hug and cheer for her with every accomplishment she achieved. Her will to try and fight for herself was an amazing display of strength and for that, she inspired me. And Rider...this sweet yet broken boy. It was admirable how he went through so much brutality he still remained standing. He deserves the world and he deserves to know that fact. The character development these two went through was beautiful and it made their romance so deep and genuine. 

Aside from the romance, I loved how this book touched on the concept of 'forever'. How it's nonexistence can be a blessing and a curse at the same time. I noted some powerful quotes surrounding this thought that I am keen to go back to if and when the situation calls for it. Or even randomly as they were that noteworthy.

As much as I loved this book, I couldn't help but think that it still felt lacking in some places. There were side characters that I began to love but then they suddenly didn't feel there at all as the story progressed and I felt a bit disappointed. I wish their presence were established more with a more fleshed out characterization because I feel like they could have added significantly to the whole plot. 

Overall, I loved my experience with this book. I'd highly recommend this to anyone looking for a YA romance with depth yet still easy to fly through and digest. This was actually my first JLA book and now I know how this author writes, it definitely won't be the last.

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