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Момичето, което обичаше завинаги
Има такава любов – обсебваща, ненакърнима, устояваща на всякакви предизвикателства, вечна. В своя нов шедьовър „Момичето, което обичаше завинаги“ популярният английски писател Алегзандър Маккол Смит разказва историята на една любов, започнала прекалено рано, чиято сила обаче не отслабва в продължение на много години. Единственият проблем е, че тази любов не е напълно споделена...
Аманда и съпругът й Дейвид са щастливи, че отглеждат децата си сред идиличното спокойствие на остров Гранд Кайман, сред красива природа, в привилегированата среда на заможни хора. Тяхната дъщеря от невръстна възраст демонстрира, че винаги ще следва повика на сърцето си. Още 4-годишна тя на своя глава променя името си от Сали на Клоувър, а две години по-късно се влюбва съвсем истински в своя най-добър приятел – Джеймс.
Макар и приказен, островният уют може да предизвика отегчение и клаустрофобия, особено ако възникнат лични проблеми. За свой ужас Аманда установява, че по неизвестни причини просто вече не обича съпруга си… и обича друг човек. По същото време Клоувър разбира, че неизвестно защо Джеймс все повече се отчуждава от нея.
Аманда тръгва по нов път, поведена от гласа на сърцето си, а Джеймс и Клоувър трябва да продължат образованието си – той в Англия, а тя в Шотландия. Джеймс изглежда завинаги загубен за Клоувър. Тя знае, че трябва да загърби миналото и да продължи напред, но постепенно й става ясно, че за нея на този свят съществува само един мъж. Не спира да я измъчва обаче въпросът дали да се осмели да му признае чувствата си и как ще се почувства, ако се окаже, че той не изпитва същото към нея.
„Божествено романтична... Стилът на Маккол Смит се отличава с много чар и блага мъдрост“.
The Times
Аманда и съпругът й Дейвид са щастливи, че отглеждат децата си сред идиличното спокойствие на остров Гранд Кайман, сред красива природа, в привилегированата среда на заможни хора. Тяхната дъщеря от невръстна възраст демонстрира, че винаги ще следва повика на сърцето си. Още 4-годишна тя на своя глава променя името си от Сали на Клоувър, а две години по-късно се влюбва съвсем истински в своя най-добър приятел – Джеймс.
Макар и приказен, островният уют може да предизвика отегчение и клаустрофобия, особено ако възникнат лични проблеми. За свой ужас Аманда установява, че по неизвестни причини просто вече не обича съпруга си… и обича друг човек. По същото време Клоувър разбира, че неизвестно защо Джеймс все повече се отчуждава от нея.
Аманда тръгва по нов път, поведена от гласа на сърцето си, а Джеймс и Клоувър трябва да продължат образованието си – той в Англия, а тя в Шотландия. Джеймс изглежда завинаги загубен за Клоувър. Тя знае, че трябва да загърби миналото и да продължи напред, но постепенно й става ясно, че за нея на този свят съществува само един мъж. Не спира да я измъчва обаче въпросът дали да се осмели да му признае чувствата си и как ще се почувства, ако се окаже, че той не изпитва същото към нея.
„Божествено романтична... Стилът на Маккол Смит се отличава с много чар и блага мъдрост“.
The Times
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
228 people are currently reading
3395 people want to read
About the author
Alexander McCall Smith
676 books12.8k followersAlexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, the Isabel Dalhousie Series, the Portuguese Irregular Verbs series, and the 44 Scotland Street series. He is professor emeritus of medical law at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and has served on many national and international bodies concerned with bioethics. He was born in what is now known as Zimbabwe and he was a law professor at the University of Botswana. He lives in Scotland. Visit him online at www.alexandermccallsmith.com, on Facebook, and on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 770 reviews
March 3, 2014
Absolute drivel. The characters are so insipid, I think if they were real and I met them I would drop dead from utter boredom. We are supposed to think that Clover is so clever because she named herself, that it about the only thing the girl every did!!
She wasted her entire life mooning over a boy that she never even told how she felt, and then apparently he's the male version of her. They deserve each other.
She wasted her entire life mooning over a boy that she never even told how she felt, and then apparently he's the male version of her. They deserve each other.
April 9, 2014
A pathetic story with pathetic characters. Nothing like the musings of gratitude of Precious Ramotswe or the philosophical ponderings of Isabel Dalhousie, two of McCall Smith’s endearing series characters. Not a whit of the author’s usual self-deprecating humor. And for the reader who naively and desperately wanted to believe that the destination would justify the journey (that would be me), a climax that beggars belief. Bleccch.
February 12, 2014
I adore Alexander McCall Smith, and have read and reread almost everything he's written. I've stood in
a long line to hear him speak and I greatly anticipated reading this newest, stand alone novel.
But it's far from a favorite.
Both Amanda and Clover struck me as surprisingly unappealing characters; Amanda being self absorbed
and Clover annoyingly unformed.
Only his short stories have ever disappointed before. Missing are the worthy, self-deprecating sorts who
usually people his books. There are some very thoughtful observations about third culture kids, something
very important to me, but for the most part, I'd give this a pass.
a long line to hear him speak and I greatly anticipated reading this newest, stand alone novel.
But it's far from a favorite.
Both Amanda and Clover struck me as surprisingly unappealing characters; Amanda being self absorbed
and Clover annoyingly unformed.
Only his short stories have ever disappointed before. Missing are the worthy, self-deprecating sorts who
usually people his books. There are some very thoughtful observations about third culture kids, something
very important to me, but for the most part, I'd give this a pass.
March 1, 2014
It saddens me to give a McCall Smith novel only 2 stars, but this comes no where close to his other works. I am not questioning his writing style, as always it was well-written with his trade mark observations on everyday life. I just didn't find any of the characters particularly compelling and the ending an absolute disgrace! I believe he tried to write this with the same charm that he uses with the Isabel Dalhousie series, but sadly, it failed miserably. I love this author but this book just didn't work for me.
February 17, 2023
The Forever Girl is the third stand-alone adult novel by Scottish author, Alexander McCall Smith. New Yorker Amanda meets Scots accountant, David, they fall in love and marry. David’s work takes them to Grand Cayman, where they live among other ex-pats, Caribbean islanders and native Caymanians. They have two children: Sally, who renames herself Clover at four years of age, and Billy.
Australian Alice and English doctor George live nearby, and their son, James goes to school with Clover at Cayman Prep. Clover and James are firm friends from day one, but as they grow up and Clover finds herself falling in love with James, Amanda realises the reverse is happening between her and David, and she is attracted to James’s father George. As events in their lives (parental separation, boarding school, University) see them drift apart, Clover is unable to dismiss her feelings for James, yet lacks the courage to speak of them because she knows he does not share them.
As McCall Smith takes the reader from Cayman to Edinburgh to Melbourne and finally to Singapore through several decades of Amanda and Clover’s lives, he touches on many additional themes besides the main one of unrequited love: the concept of one true love; falling out of love; asking others to be a party to deceit; self-control vs repression; jealousy; obsession and irrational behaviour; private passions; platonic friendships; and guilt about inequality.
As always, McCall Smith fills his novel with gentle philosophy as he tells his tale at a (perhaps too) sedate pace. McCall Smith has a well-honed expertise with the female protagonist, uncannily able to express what women think and feel. On God, Clover tells Ted “If it were a woman, she wouldn’t make things so hard for women”.
He also gives them plenty of words of wisdom: on love, Amanda tells Clover “It’s the one thing, though – the one thing – that you just can’t be rational about. And I think that’s because love is fundamentally irrational – so how can you be rational about something that doesn’t make sense?” and about communication “We imagine that people know what we’re thinking, and they don’t. We misunderstand one another”
Clover is a slightly frustrating heroine: she is given so much good advice that she ignores to her peril, yet the reader will not begrudge her the (fairly predictable) happy ending. Classic McCall Smith.
Australian Alice and English doctor George live nearby, and their son, James goes to school with Clover at Cayman Prep. Clover and James are firm friends from day one, but as they grow up and Clover finds herself falling in love with James, Amanda realises the reverse is happening between her and David, and she is attracted to James’s father George. As events in their lives (parental separation, boarding school, University) see them drift apart, Clover is unable to dismiss her feelings for James, yet lacks the courage to speak of them because she knows he does not share them.
As McCall Smith takes the reader from Cayman to Edinburgh to Melbourne and finally to Singapore through several decades of Amanda and Clover’s lives, he touches on many additional themes besides the main one of unrequited love: the concept of one true love; falling out of love; asking others to be a party to deceit; self-control vs repression; jealousy; obsession and irrational behaviour; private passions; platonic friendships; and guilt about inequality.
As always, McCall Smith fills his novel with gentle philosophy as he tells his tale at a (perhaps too) sedate pace. McCall Smith has a well-honed expertise with the female protagonist, uncannily able to express what women think and feel. On God, Clover tells Ted “If it were a woman, she wouldn’t make things so hard for women”.
He also gives them plenty of words of wisdom: on love, Amanda tells Clover “It’s the one thing, though – the one thing – that you just can’t be rational about. And I think that’s because love is fundamentally irrational – so how can you be rational about something that doesn’t make sense?” and about communication “We imagine that people know what we’re thinking, and they don’t. We misunderstand one another”
Clover is a slightly frustrating heroine: she is given so much good advice that she ignores to her peril, yet the reader will not begrudge her the (fairly predictable) happy ending. Classic McCall Smith.
April 2, 2014
Despite what some reviewers have written, I found this to be a charming, soothing book. AMS's writing has that effect on me. It's almost like going to therapy! While I don't want to give away the outcome, I will say that I am in Singapore while reading the book, staying here for a 6 week annual visit. Coincidental, for sure, but giving the story more reality for me. One thing that readers should keep an eye out for are some very wise life statements within the book that are not emphasized in any way, just stated as part of the wonderful observations being shared with us. I did not mark them as I plan to share the book with others, but will go back and write them down for myself in a place I can return to again and again.
July 11, 2014
'She reached out and touched Clover's hand..."I think you may be in love with the idea of a boy rather than with an actual boy"
Clover has been infatuated with James, her childhood friend, since she was six years old, and doesn't know how to give up, despite harbouring a strong conviction that her love is unrequited and will never be returned. This book follows her through her life for over fifteen years as she tries to learn how to deal with the pain of love that will be forever unreturned.
I loved this book, and am really surprised to see that it hasn't been rated very highly by other readers. Clover's love for James was very believable, and I couldn't put this book down, finishing it in around 4 or 5 hours of straight reading. I loved how the author described the locations in the book, from the claustrophobic society of the Cayman islands to historic romance of Edinburgh... it is a shame that the cover didn't look more enticing as we know many people do judge a book by it and I fear they may miss out on an excellent read.
I haven't read a lot of the author's other work, so maybe that is why I was able to enjoy this book where other's weren't able to. It is definitely an introspective, reflective novel... more about feelings and relationships and patience than action and drama. That isn't to say that it is dull or slow, just that there are no big shocking events like murders!
I think this book really reflected the true nature of unrequited love for me, in a way that I haven't seen in a long time. It really resonated with me, and I would definitely read it again. I recommend it to all those interested in the emotions and process of unrequited or unconsummated love. There are some great insights into human nature gently slotted into the main body of the text in a subtle way.
I think this one will divide fans, as romantic types may love it, and realists may hate it. It certainly isn't a comedy, but I think if you go into it knowing it will be very different from the author's other works then you wont be disappointed. It sounds like it has been written from experience.
Clover has been infatuated with James, her childhood friend, since she was six years old, and doesn't know how to give up, despite harbouring a strong conviction that her love is unrequited and will never be returned. This book follows her through her life for over fifteen years as she tries to learn how to deal with the pain of love that will be forever unreturned.
I loved this book, and am really surprised to see that it hasn't been rated very highly by other readers. Clover's love for James was very believable, and I couldn't put this book down, finishing it in around 4 or 5 hours of straight reading. I loved how the author described the locations in the book, from the claustrophobic society of the Cayman islands to historic romance of Edinburgh... it is a shame that the cover didn't look more enticing as we know many people do judge a book by it and I fear they may miss out on an excellent read.
I haven't read a lot of the author's other work, so maybe that is why I was able to enjoy this book where other's weren't able to. It is definitely an introspective, reflective novel... more about feelings and relationships and patience than action and drama. That isn't to say that it is dull or slow, just that there are no big shocking events like murders!
I think this book really reflected the true nature of unrequited love for me, in a way that I haven't seen in a long time. It really resonated with me, and I would definitely read it again. I recommend it to all those interested in the emotions and process of unrequited or unconsummated love. There are some great insights into human nature gently slotted into the main body of the text in a subtle way.
I think this one will divide fans, as romantic types may love it, and realists may hate it. It certainly isn't a comedy, but I think if you go into it knowing it will be very different from the author's other works then you wont be disappointed. It sounds like it has been written from experience.
February 8, 2014
This book is different from AMS's other books, but it still has the gentle contemplativeness that I so love. His characters are never larger than life, but people that you feel you know. And the way he always describes Edinburgh, with so much love and understanding, which make me want to live there. Every time I read one of AMS's books I feel that everything is alright with the world.
February 16, 2014
While the plot line was simple, and not an uncommon one when it comes to romance novels, McCall Smith's style came through, making this novel a great read. The way in which he addresses human nature by including ideas we all have at one time or another, make this story one that reaches out to everyone.
February 8, 2021
2.5★
I didn't enjoy this as much as I expected - mostly because of the character of Clover who was really very pathetic. I know that was the whole point, but it didn't make me sympathise with her after a while, I just got impatient with her! Because of this, it took me about 3 weeks to read - I just couldn't be bothered picking it up to read more! So disappointing because I normally enjoy Alexander McCall Smith. But this one didn't do it for me. Although I liked some of the descriptions of life in the Cayman Islands!
I didn't enjoy this as much as I expected - mostly because of the character of Clover who was really very pathetic. I know that was the whole point, but it didn't make me sympathise with her after a while, I just got impatient with her! Because of this, it took me about 3 weeks to read - I just couldn't be bothered picking it up to read more! So disappointing because I normally enjoy Alexander McCall Smith. But this one didn't do it for me. Although I liked some of the descriptions of life in the Cayman Islands!
January 3, 2023
Определено не ми върви с книгите на автора. Толкова обстоятелствено пише, че ме хванаха лудите. 366 страници, а развръзката се случва в едно кратко изречение на 362-ата. Китайско мъчение. Наистина ме изнерви.
September 24, 2014
Alexander McCall Smith is usually one of my favorite authors but the last two books of his I have read (this one and Trains and Lovers) have been a disappointment. The characters were just a bit too much on the passive bordering on pathetic side.
March 2, 2014
I was disappointed in this book by McCall Smith. I like Smith's subtle humor in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency and the Isabel Dahlhousie series but there is very little humor in this book. Also, nothing really happens except a bunch of rich expats wander the globe pining for love. Pretty lame and the end was even lamer. Definitely should not have finished this one!
February 23, 2014
It pains me to give a McCall Smith novel only 2 stars, but he's set the bar high with his other works. As always, this was well-written, with the quiet, wise observations on everyday life that are a hallmark, but I didn't find any of the characters particularly compelling.
January 5, 2015
Amanda and David, expats from the U.S. and Scotland respectively, live in the Grand Cayman Islands with their daughter Clover and a son who plays such a nominal role that I’ve forgotten his name. As a child, Clover becomes infatuated with her friend James. The plot focuses mostly on Clover’s love for James, which continues through adulthood despite that James often goes out of his way to avoid her and shows no sign of returning her devotion.
The only character I found really compelling was the Australian friend Clover makes after college, at which point the story briefly became very interesting. But the ending was completely improbable, given everything the reader witnessed earlier. Sadly, this novel lacks the charming characters, gentle wisdom, and understanding of human nature that I love in Alexander McCall Smith’s other books.
The only character I found really compelling was the Australian friend Clover makes after college, at which point the story briefly became very interesting. But the ending was completely improbable, given everything the reader witnessed earlier. Sadly, this novel lacks the charming characters, gentle wisdom, and understanding of human nature that I love in Alexander McCall Smith’s other books.
July 3, 2018
One and a half stars. Tops. My first major disappointment from this author. Major. Could not warm to the characters and Clover's internal angsty dithering drove me up the wall. Supposedly this is a love story but who cares about a couple of insipid rich kids wandering the globe looking for love? Not me. Sure, there were some thoughts about kindness vs love, can one settle for only kindness from the one you love passionately? Still couldn't care. The ending was flat out stupid. I'm wondering why I bothered to finish it. Cannot recommend. That is all.
April 4, 2014
This is a sweet love story, and it is also a story that gives you a lot to think about. When I finished, I closed my book, hugged it to me and sighed--and it's been a long time since a book has done that to me.
January 18, 2018
I love Alexander McCall Smith. This book had a double story line, one of which I didn't like. They coincided and delved into the philosophy of love, with some powerful thoughts, as McCall is known to have. However, I didn't like the ending. It was typical of his work, and he led the reader right up to the same conclusion, but it still left me with an empty feeling.
He also had a sentence with nearly 50 words.
He also had a sentence with nearly 50 words.
May 25, 2014
The Forever Girl would Make a very good mother's present. I have never read The no 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith. This is my very first novel by Alexander that have I read. I am very glad that I have read this stand alone heart-breaking novel. I enjoyed reading The Forever Girl from page one up to the very end. I just could not put this novel down. I hope that Alexander McCall Smith will publish more stand alone novels in the near future sometime. The
Forever Girl was a pure pleasure to read. The story of The Forever Girl is about a wealthy married couple Amanda and David who move to The Grand Cayman Islands where they hire a Jamaican nanny to look after their children Clover and Billy. While the family are in Cayman Amanda falls out of love with her husband and strikes up a really good friendship with another man. Their marriage comes to a crisis and Amanda moves to Scotland with Clover and Billy. At the young age of six.Clover has a best friend James who she spend all her time with until it is time for them to be sent to a Scotland college. Clover is madly in love with James and keeps on following James to every college and city in hope that he get the message that Clover is in love with him and wants to be his girlfriend.
Alexander McCall Smith has invented characters that are totally refreshing, with the frame-work of the plot where the characters each have and their tension filled problems. The atmosphere of all of the locations are expertly written with gorgeous descriptions to capture some pure escapism interest for readers..I do highly recommend The Forever Girl to all readers of all ages. I hope that many other readers will enjoy reading Forever Girl as much as I have.
Forever Girl was a pure pleasure to read. The story of The Forever Girl is about a wealthy married couple Amanda and David who move to The Grand Cayman Islands where they hire a Jamaican nanny to look after their children Clover and Billy. While the family are in Cayman Amanda falls out of love with her husband and strikes up a really good friendship with another man. Their marriage comes to a crisis and Amanda moves to Scotland with Clover and Billy. At the young age of six.Clover has a best friend James who she spend all her time with until it is time for them to be sent to a Scotland college. Clover is madly in love with James and keeps on following James to every college and city in hope that he get the message that Clover is in love with him and wants to be his girlfriend.
Alexander McCall Smith has invented characters that are totally refreshing, with the frame-work of the plot where the characters each have and their tension filled problems. The atmosphere of all of the locations are expertly written with gorgeous descriptions to capture some pure escapism interest for readers..I do highly recommend The Forever Girl to all readers of all ages. I hope that many other readers will enjoy reading Forever Girl as much as I have.
January 27, 2018
Clover was frustratingly ridiculous.
October 13, 2022
The story is set in Cayman islands, a tax - haven for many. Its a story of love, friendship and life.
I heard the audio version of this book and was not quite happy with the narration.
Its about Clova and James, two kids who grew up together on the cayman islands as their british fathers, had secured jobs there.
The back drop is about the marital relations between clova's parents, in which they go from a happy family to a seperation.
Clova loves James, but for some reason, the love is not reciprocated. The book revolves around that. Clova, tries to seek attention from James, follows him around wherever he goes, while staying in the background.
Its a different story, quite touchng.
I heard the audio version of this book and was not quite happy with the narration.
Its about Clova and James, two kids who grew up together on the cayman islands as their british fathers, had secured jobs there.
The back drop is about the marital relations between clova's parents, in which they go from a happy family to a seperation.
Clova loves James, but for some reason, the love is not reciprocated. The book revolves around that. Clova, tries to seek attention from James, follows him around wherever he goes, while staying in the background.
Its a different story, quite touchng.
February 7, 2017
3.5 stars, I really enjoyed this one!
January 20, 2016
The Forever Girl is the parallel story of Amanda & David and Clover & James. Amanda and David have been married for quite a while; they're in their 30s and have two kids and a comfortable life in the Cayman Islands. One day Amanda realizes that she's simply fallen out of love with David. There's no acrimony; just apathy. At the same time, Amanda's daughter Clover realizes that she's in love with James, the "boy next door." (He's actually a few doors down, but they've grown up together and he's just that wholesome "boy next door" type of guy.) Amanda meets James' father one night for drinks, and almost goes too far, but doesn't. Clover and James go off to different boarding high schools and lose touch. Amanda doesn't divorce David, but does move to Scotland.
It sounds like a lot to keep track of, but it's really not. Really, the story is mostly Amanda and Clover as they negotiate some pretty complicated feelings for the guys in their lives. The chapters don't alternate evenly, but they do switch back and forth from Amanda's point of view to Clover's and back again.
I was at first uncomfortable with what seemed like it was going to be a book ok'ing marital infidelity. But then Amanda stopped herself! I was pretty stoked about that. I mean, I was sad that she felt that she and David needed to separate, and that she should move so far away. But I was glad that infidelity didn't really seem like an option for her (or David, although it's never truly confirmed as what he was up to while she was living in Scotland). You might know by now if you follow my reviews that I also get excited about books with somewhat normal, supportive family units. Amanda and David never completely divorce, and they are both super supportive of their kids. Amanda and Clover remain close throughout the whole book.
I became uncomfortable through the latter half of the book with Clover's obsession with James. Even though they go to separate boarding schools in separate countries, she doesn't ever date anyone else. She's just pining away for James... who may or may not even remember she exists. Then comes college. They actually end up at the same college, by chance, but in separate degree programs so they never run into each other. Clover continues to pine. After they graduate, they both go off on "gap years" and live, again, in separate countries. (She in Scotland; he in Australia. Can't get much farther apart.) And guess what? The pining continues. By the end of the book, I was actually pretty fed up with Clover. I didn't find it romantic or cute that she would go to such lengths of angst for this guy. They hadn't really hung out in person since they were preteens! And yet she grows into a full adult still so friggin' fixated on him that she's disrupting her life in pursuit!
One thing Alexander McCall Smith does really, really well is setting and atmosphere, and The Forever Girl is no exception. Even if I did get frustrated by one of the characters, I was 100% hooked in the book by the setting. First the warm, sunny, vibrant, colorful Caribbean. Then the muted grays and greens of cooler Scotland. And finally, the hot, wide-open Australia. I could practically feel the mugginess of the Caymans and see the gray of the ocean in Scotland. I actually really loved the housekeeper/nanny, Margaret, employed by Amanda and David. She's Jamaican, and a transplant to the Caymans. She's got great spirit and spunk. I'd have liked to have even more of her in the book!
Overall, I give The Forever Girl about 3.5 stars out of 5. Not head over heels with the plot, but definitely loved the atmosphere. I don't regret a minute spent reading it, but I can't think of anyone to recommend it to.
It sounds like a lot to keep track of, but it's really not. Really, the story is mostly Amanda and Clover as they negotiate some pretty complicated feelings for the guys in their lives. The chapters don't alternate evenly, but they do switch back and forth from Amanda's point of view to Clover's and back again.
I was at first uncomfortable with what seemed like it was going to be a book ok'ing marital infidelity. But then Amanda stopped herself! I was pretty stoked about that. I mean, I was sad that she felt that she and David needed to separate, and that she should move so far away. But I was glad that infidelity didn't really seem like an option for her (or David, although it's never truly confirmed as what he was up to while she was living in Scotland). You might know by now if you follow my reviews that I also get excited about books with somewhat normal, supportive family units. Amanda and David never completely divorce, and they are both super supportive of their kids. Amanda and Clover remain close throughout the whole book.
I became uncomfortable through the latter half of the book with Clover's obsession with James. Even though they go to separate boarding schools in separate countries, she doesn't ever date anyone else. She's just pining away for James... who may or may not even remember she exists. Then comes college. They actually end up at the same college, by chance, but in separate degree programs so they never run into each other. Clover continues to pine. After they graduate, they both go off on "gap years" and live, again, in separate countries. (She in Scotland; he in Australia. Can't get much farther apart.) And guess what? The pining continues. By the end of the book, I was actually pretty fed up with Clover. I didn't find it romantic or cute that she would go to such lengths of angst for this guy. They hadn't really hung out in person since they were preteens! And yet she grows into a full adult still so friggin' fixated on him that she's disrupting her life in pursuit!
One thing Alexander McCall Smith does really, really well is setting and atmosphere, and The Forever Girl is no exception. Even if I did get frustrated by one of the characters, I was 100% hooked in the book by the setting. First the warm, sunny, vibrant, colorful Caribbean. Then the muted grays and greens of cooler Scotland. And finally, the hot, wide-open Australia. I could practically feel the mugginess of the Caymans and see the gray of the ocean in Scotland. I actually really loved the housekeeper/nanny, Margaret, employed by Amanda and David. She's Jamaican, and a transplant to the Caymans. She's got great spirit and spunk. I'd have liked to have even more of her in the book!
Overall, I give The Forever Girl about 3.5 stars out of 5. Not head over heels with the plot, but definitely loved the atmosphere. I don't regret a minute spent reading it, but I can't think of anyone to recommend it to.
April 17, 2014
**spoilers** Alexander McCall Smith is one of my favorite authors. His way with words and true art of description, making things completely understood by saying it in a way I would be unable to think of, is amazing. And he can write from a female perspective better than some females! (Lol). That's why I was absolutely thrilled to get it from the Goodreads giveaway of The Forever Girl!
Unfortunately...I did not really care for this book. The characters are awful! The book begins by being with Amanda, who is described unknowingly by her daughter near the end of the book: "It was a state that Clover recognised from people she had known in Cayman: the boredom that comes with having money." (p307) She decides, in this boredom and seemingly on a whim, that she is in love with someone else. Though she does not have a physical affair with the man, she and her husband split and live apart for some time. They end up getting back together in the same "meh, ok, let's do that" way. The point? Not sure.
The main character for the rest of the book, Clover, is her daughter, whose best friend and object of her desire is James - ironically the son of the man Amanda had decided to fall in love with. I say object of desire as she loves him from childhood through and past college - all without telling him, and very much from afar. Her love is obsessive to the point of stalking him across the world - and yes, that is stalking (she tells herself it's not). I found her and her infatuation pitiful. Basically, she is waiting around for him to make the first move but he behaves like he is completely disinterested - doesn't even keep in communication with her via email, calling her his "sister", even denying they were best friends as children. She continues to "love" him through high school and college, not seeing him for three years at a stretch, being miserable, while he has girlfriends and is fine living his life Clover-free. (She also has a long term boyfriend who she doesn't give a decent chance.). So let's just say the ending of the book made me want to throw it across the room!! Ridiculous.
The author's female characters are typically so strong that Clover was a huge disappointment. I personally have a huge pet peeve for pitiful, pathetic weak women. I also think her "love" is unrealistic to be continued for so long. It might be seen as beautiful unrequited love, but to me, to not get over a man who ignores and pushes you away for years is just stupid and lame. I kept shouting at the book "Get over it!" I know more romantic hearts might love that, but to me it's ridiculous and hopefully, unrealistic!
I would not have finished this book if I hadn't felt responsible for reading it in order to write the requested review. Sorry Mr McCall Smith, this one was a strikeout for me.
Unfortunately...I did not really care for this book. The characters are awful! The book begins by being with Amanda, who is described unknowingly by her daughter near the end of the book: "It was a state that Clover recognised from people she had known in Cayman: the boredom that comes with having money." (p307) She decides, in this boredom and seemingly on a whim, that she is in love with someone else. Though she does not have a physical affair with the man, she and her husband split and live apart for some time. They end up getting back together in the same "meh, ok, let's do that" way. The point? Not sure.
The main character for the rest of the book, Clover, is her daughter, whose best friend and object of her desire is James - ironically the son of the man Amanda had decided to fall in love with. I say object of desire as she loves him from childhood through and past college - all without telling him, and very much from afar. Her love is obsessive to the point of stalking him across the world - and yes, that is stalking (she tells herself it's not). I found her and her infatuation pitiful. Basically, she is waiting around for him to make the first move but he behaves like he is completely disinterested - doesn't even keep in communication with her via email, calling her his "sister", even denying they were best friends as children. She continues to "love" him through high school and college, not seeing him for three years at a stretch, being miserable, while he has girlfriends and is fine living his life Clover-free. (She also has a long term boyfriend who she doesn't give a decent chance.). So let's just say the ending of the book made me want to throw it across the room!! Ridiculous.
The author's female characters are typically so strong that Clover was a huge disappointment. I personally have a huge pet peeve for pitiful, pathetic weak women. I also think her "love" is unrealistic to be continued for so long. It might be seen as beautiful unrequited love, but to me, to not get over a man who ignores and pushes you away for years is just stupid and lame. I kept shouting at the book "Get over it!" I know more romantic hearts might love that, but to me it's ridiculous and hopefully, unrealistic!
I would not have finished this book if I hadn't felt responsible for reading it in order to write the requested review. Sorry Mr McCall Smith, this one was a strikeout for me.
July 22, 2019
I didn't think I would like this book as much as I did. It begins in Grand Cayman, but it eventually moves to Edinburgh, Scotland and finally Melbourne, Australia, before ending back in Grand Cayman. I devoured the book. The story of Clover and her love for childhood friend James was strangely moving and by equal terms frustrating. Along the way, McCall Smith provides an exploration of love, almost a discourse, but within a story. More than anything, I found it to be a cautionary tale that teaches the importance of honestly speaking your heart, even at the risk of embarrassment or failure. There's also a consideration of wealth and good fortune, of the importance of compassion, and the failure of the rich often to have any concern for the plight of those less fortunate ... even those who serve them. It is a book that speaks to this time when money is valued far too highly and some have carefully cultivated an indifference to the economic disparities that benefit them at the expense of others. McCall Smith always paints his characters with a gentle hand and evokes the kindness of his reader.
June 2, 2015
The two stars say "It was OK." Well, barely. An excellent example of why I should have checked in here before starting this CD set I borrowed while awaiting A GOD IN RUINS (which I now have and which certainly makes anything suffer in comparison.)
This tedious little offering, possibly meant as beach-lit, is set in the Cayman Islands, Scotland, Australia, and other spots in the world. Perhaps Smith was vacationing various places and wanted a tax write-off. (No idea if Inland Revenue has deductions similar to IRS.)
The best part was the depiction of ex-pats in the Caymans. Much of it involves the adolescent yearnings of Clover from the time she is about 10 until well into adulthood (chronologically, at least.)
Just goes to show you can't always judge a book by its author...
This tedious little offering, possibly meant as beach-lit, is set in the Cayman Islands, Scotland, Australia, and other spots in the world. Perhaps Smith was vacationing various places and wanted a tax write-off. (No idea if Inland Revenue has deductions similar to IRS.)
The best part was the depiction of ex-pats in the Caymans. Much of it involves the adolescent yearnings of Clover from the time she is about 10 until well into adulthood (chronologically, at least.)
Just goes to show you can't always judge a book by its author...
July 4, 2021
So this is one of my worst-rated books on my GR TBR. Generally I tend to rate more harshly than a lot of other reviewers, but dang, people hated this book! I feel like my review is very middle of the road, despite being 2*.
I think the biggest gripe I had with this book was that nothing happened. The characters were boring and just kind of spoiled, and the whole book was just 300 pages of Clover being in love with James but never saying anything to him. Like I get that this happens - I've been there, but this might have better suited a novella, rather than a full-length novel. The Caymans seems like a really cool setting and I would have loved to have spent more time there, rather than with mopey Clover.
I think the biggest gripe I had with this book was that nothing happened. The characters were boring and just kind of spoiled, and the whole book was just 300 pages of Clover being in love with James but never saying anything to him. Like I get that this happens - I've been there, but this might have better suited a novella, rather than a full-length novel. The Caymans seems like a really cool setting and I would have loved to have spent more time there, rather than with mopey Clover.
January 18, 2023
Прелестно начало на годината с най-интригуващата история за любов, която съм чела. Поглъща вниманието сякаш е остро сюжетен трилър, а всъщност действието е само декор, втори план за напрегнатото разгръщане на любовта вътре в момичето, което иска да се освободи от нея, но знае, че тя е завинаги.
Обожавам филигранния изказ на Алекзандър Маккол Смит и се прекланям пред умението му да извайва пълнокръвни женски образи.
Само най-висока оценка!
Обожавам филигранния изказ на Алекзандър Маккол Смит и се прекланям пред умението му да извайва пълнокръвни женски образи.
Само най-висока оценка!
September 6, 2020
Readable but not one of his best books. Although I did still enjoy his writing style. The original setting in the Cayman Islands was interesting. But the two main characters became rather annoying and the ending was very predictable.
October 7, 2020
Tedious drivel about boring people with too much money. I hate books by male authors who think they can write from a female perspective, but can’t. Also, the ending sucked.
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