The Problem With Forever Review

 Title: The Problem With Forever

Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout 

Genre: YA Romance

Page Number: 443

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/5

Synopsis:  Growing up Mallory Dodge learned that the best way to survive is to not say a word. Even though it has been four years since her nightmare life ended, she is beginning to worry that the fear that holds her back will last a lifetime. Now, after years of homeschooling Mallory must face a new milestone in her life, which is spending her senior year at a public high school. But she never imagined she would run into Rider Stark, the friend and protector she has not seen since her childhood, on her very first day. It Does not take long for Mallory to realize that her connection with Rider never really faded. Yet soon it becomes apparent that she's not the only one grappling with lingering scars from the past. As she watches Rider's life spiral out of control, Mallory must make a choice between staying silent and speaking out. For the people she loves, the life she wants, and the truths that need to be heard.

My Review: This book was heartbreaking in the best way possible. For it being a young adult book, it feels very mature. The characters go through real struggles such as foster care, abuse, gang violence, and death. These are very heavy topics for a young adult book, yet they are handled very well. Mallory's journey through the book was incredible. We really get to see her grow as the tiny weak girl who was afraid to speak to strong and being able to stand up for herself. Rider's journey was also incredible to read. his issues were not as easy to see as Mallory's and it took a lot for him to reach his breakthrough. Their relationship was so sweet and felt real and authentic. I took off half a star because I feel as though some of the side characters should have been explored more. Every character in the book had their issues and I would have liked to see more of that explored. Overall it was still an amazing read.

Tropes:

Second chance romance

childhood friends

Good girl/ bad boy