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Forever Crushed
Long-term crushes are hard…
Gwen Roman has spent most of her life being overlooked. It never really bothered her all that much. Until she sees Ash Waylen, the guy she’s had a crush on since the tenth grade. The moment he acknowledges her presence and says her name, that damn crush weaves its way back into her heart. So much for a stellar GPA this semester.
After his girlfriend shattered his trust and broke his heart, Ash Waylen plans to spend his junior year of college nursing his wounds and avoiding the opposite sex. The last thing he expects is to run into Gwen Roman and have her tugging on heartstrings he thought his ex-girlfriend took when he broke up with her.
Gwen was always the shy girl who followed Chrissy and Zack Willows around in high school, her head always buried in a book. She never caught his attention before, but this time, it’s different.
In an act of self-preservation, Ash averts his gaze knowing only trouble will follow him if he pursues the one thing he wants.
While Ash tries to resist temptation, Gwen might just throw caution to the wind and go after what she wants for the first time in her life.
Gwen Roman has spent most of her life being overlooked. It never really bothered her all that much. Until she sees Ash Waylen, the guy she’s had a crush on since the tenth grade. The moment he acknowledges her presence and says her name, that damn crush weaves its way back into her heart. So much for a stellar GPA this semester.
After his girlfriend shattered his trust and broke his heart, Ash Waylen plans to spend his junior year of college nursing his wounds and avoiding the opposite sex. The last thing he expects is to run into Gwen Roman and have her tugging on heartstrings he thought his ex-girlfriend took when he broke up with her.
Gwen was always the shy girl who followed Chrissy and Zack Willows around in high school, her head always buried in a book. She never caught his attention before, but this time, it’s different.
In an act of self-preservation, Ash averts his gaze knowing only trouble will follow him if he pursues the one thing he wants.
While Ash tries to resist temptation, Gwen might just throw caution to the wind and go after what she wants for the first time in her life.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2023
169 people are currently reading
1748 people want to read
About the author
Amber Paige
8 books168 followersAmber Paige writes romance/contemporary romance/fantasy novels with HEA’s. When she’s not obsessing over commas or letting her imposter syndrome win you can find her writing, reading, playing videos games, or watching too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
September 2, 2023
I'm so excited to share my first contemporary romance with everyone! This was my first real spicy book. It was a blast to write and I hope everyone enjoys it. It is spicer than Symbol of Hope, but still sweet with many great tropes.
This idea started around a spicy scene that wouldn't leave my head, and I ran with it lol. (How most of my books start)
I can't wait for everyone to meet Gwen, Ash, and the rest of the crew 🥰
Oh, and Pickles will be there too...
This idea started around a spicy scene that wouldn't leave my head, and I ran with it lol. (How most of my books start)
I can't wait for everyone to meet Gwen, Ash, and the rest of the crew 🥰
Oh, and Pickles will be there too...
December 5, 2023
Whew, the spice is spicing in this one guys. 🥵🌶️
Ash came across as a little cringe at first, but finished really strong. Hot librarian vibes all the way.
Chrissy and Gwen are a trip. Zach was a added bonus that had me cackling at their antics.
Ash came across as a little cringe at first, but finished really strong. Hot librarian vibes all the way.
Chrissy and Gwen are a trip. Zach was a added bonus that had me cackling at their antics.
October 17, 2023
I’ve loved this book and these characters since reading it during the beta round, and I’m so proud of Amber and the hard work she has done to make this book amazing.
Forever Crushed is a sweet and spicy college romance that will have you swooning, make you laugh with all of the hilarious banter, and maybe hit you with a wave of nostalgia as it brings back memories of your college years. At some points I was downright cackling. The cozy fall vibes, found family, and crazy cat are sure to make this a comfort read for many. The spicy scenes are the cherry on top.
The story flows well and I think readers will easily relate to the MCs, Gwen and Ash, as well the whole cast of characters. I really love the strong friendships and unwavering support they give each other. Maybe you have a Chrissy or a Zack in your life too, or even a Pickles.
Immerse yourself in the world of Castle Brook and pick up a copy today!
Forever Crushed is a sweet and spicy college romance that will have you swooning, make you laugh with all of the hilarious banter, and maybe hit you with a wave of nostalgia as it brings back memories of your college years. At some points I was downright cackling. The cozy fall vibes, found family, and crazy cat are sure to make this a comfort read for many. The spicy scenes are the cherry on top.
The story flows well and I think readers will easily relate to the MCs, Gwen and Ash, as well the whole cast of characters. I really love the strong friendships and unwavering support they give each other. Maybe you have a Chrissy or a Zack in your life too, or even a Pickles.
Immerse yourself in the world of Castle Brook and pick up a copy today!
Read
November 2, 2023DNF
This was so weird slow and boring sorry I tried but failed .
The MCs interactions were so bordering tweens dialogues… not for me
This was so weird slow and boring sorry I tried but failed .
The MCs interactions were so bordering tweens dialogues… not for me
November 2, 2023
Forever Crushed ARC Review 🍂
⭐️ Rating - 3.5⭐️
My thoughts 💭- Gwen has had a crush on Ash since high school and while Ash has never really noticed her that hasn’t stopped her long term crush.
One day Ash sits next to her in class and from there the love story begins. We follow Ash and Gwen as they navigate a relationship where Ash is still getting over heartbreak and betrayal while this is Gwen’s first serious relationship.
This was such a cute autumn read perfect for someone looking for something fluffy and quick to read.
For me I just felt like their love story was as if they were still in high school not college and it was a little insta love. I wish there was more of a reason for Ash to have noticed Gwen such as being paired up for a science project or something instead of Chrissy cat calling him and then he notices her and decides she’s the most attractive woman ever. Also him saying to take things slow while he learns to get over his heartbreak but then a couple weeks later is fine because he’s watched some YouTube videos on getting over it.
There’s a 3rd act “breakup” where they argue but it’s literally immediately solved because of something that happens the very next chapter (the chapters are very short)
I’m looking forward to the next book in this series as i’d love to see the writer grow as I did enjoy the writing style and think the next book is going to be even better!
⭐️ Rating - 3.5⭐️
My thoughts 💭- Gwen has had a crush on Ash since high school and while Ash has never really noticed her that hasn’t stopped her long term crush.
One day Ash sits next to her in class and from there the love story begins. We follow Ash and Gwen as they navigate a relationship where Ash is still getting over heartbreak and betrayal while this is Gwen’s first serious relationship.
This was such a cute autumn read perfect for someone looking for something fluffy and quick to read.
For me I just felt like their love story was as if they were still in high school not college and it was a little insta love. I wish there was more of a reason for Ash to have noticed Gwen such as being paired up for a science project or something instead of Chrissy cat calling him and then he notices her and decides she’s the most attractive woman ever. Also him saying to take things slow while he learns to get over his heartbreak but then a couple weeks later is fine because he’s watched some YouTube videos on getting over it.
There’s a 3rd act “breakup” where they argue but it’s literally immediately solved because of something that happens the very next chapter (the chapters are very short)
I’m looking forward to the next book in this series as i’d love to see the writer grow as I did enjoy the writing style and think the next book is going to be even better!
October 26, 2023
Most of the relationships in here were weird, they were all very close but then our MMC Ash was crazy so I didn’t understand how he was okay with some but not others. Ash was also super toxic and Zack agreed with his toxicity like !?? I liked there was drama at parts because at first I thought it was going to be a perfect relationship the whole book! But also didnt like how fast they fell inlove I get shes been crushing on him for forever but felt like there coulda been a good twist with that!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2025
This book is so cute! The banter between our FMC and our MMC is adorable but the banter between the besties had me laughing out loud on more than one occasion! This story is sweet but realistic. It doesn’t gloss over trauma or make it out like love can fix anything. It shows that relationships are hard and that they take work, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t great. I’m looking forward to the next story!
October 6, 2024
3.5 stars
October 24, 2023
daddy ash for the win 🏆
amber, so have outdone yourself with ash and gwen 😭 I love those two something fierce. I especially loved the mental health aspect and the importance of it to ash and gwen’s relationship. 11/10 ⭐️’s
amber, so have outdone yourself with ash and gwen 😭 I love those two something fierce. I especially loved the mental health aspect and the importance of it to ash and gwen’s relationship. 11/10 ⭐️’s
October 12, 2023
He's a 10 but he has t r a u m a
I absolutely adored this book, it was the breath of fresh fun romance I needed. It was cute, light-hearted, and a little on the spicy side. If you want a cute little read that you get addicted to for all the right reasons.
I'd start this book now while the seasons near for sure, makes the read a little better imo ;)
I absolutely adored this book, it was the breath of fresh fun romance I needed. It was cute, light-hearted, and a little on the spicy side. If you want a cute little read that you get addicted to for all the right reasons.
I'd start this book now while the seasons near for sure, makes the read a little better imo ;)
October 25, 2023
This book was a really cute fall read! I enjoyed most of it, and I’d recommend it if you’re looking for something quick to read! Their love story was cute but felt a bit juvenile (not necessarily a bad thing!)
Overall I felt that the story lacked some depth to the story. The ending felt a bit rushed and lacked emotion for me. I felt like the third act “break” really didn’t add much to the story except frustration for me, as I’m really not a fan of that trope and I don’t think it adds anything to the story.
Overall I felt that the story lacked some depth to the story. The ending felt a bit rushed and lacked emotion for me. I felt like the third act “break” really didn’t add much to the story except frustration for me, as I’m really not a fan of that trope and I don’t think it adds anything to the story.
October 18, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Ahhh the day has finally arrived! I can't believe this book is finally out in the world. I have loved this cute little book in secret since way back in March when I Beta read this for Amber and have been waiting (semi-patiently) to gush to all of you!
🐈⬛ College Romance
🍁 Found Family
🍂 Male Mental Health Rep
🍁 Fall Vibes
🐈⬛ Long-term Crush
If you're looking for a low stakes romance in a college setting with cozy season vibes, and top tier spice, then look no further than this. I am not a mushy gushy person but I was blushing and kicking my feet like a child reading this. So cute!
Firstly, this book felt oddly nostalgic for me. Not that I had a cute little college romance, but the way Gwen describes her crush on Ash is very reminiscent of that feeling of having your first all consuming crush. It makes you crazy. Then to have that someone actually like you back? IMPOSSIBLE 😅. We've all been there and it was written in such a wholesome way that had my heart fluttering.
Secondly, the TEASING that Amber did in this was so good! I was screaming JUST KISS ALREADY so many times until they finally got together. And oh man when they got together 🥵. This cute little cover may look innocent, but I promise you the spice in here was shockingly good.
Thirdly, the mental health rep in here, in particular with Ash, was something I really found compelling. Gwen has built Ash up in her head as this idealistic person, but he is flawed like the rest of us. He struggled with his mental health from deep seeded trauma from his past and instead of hiding, he actually gets help. I loved to see it.
Fourthly, I loved Chrissy and Gwen's friendship and the found family aspect here. Chrissy had me cracking up through most of this. I loved how supportive she was of Gwen though. Add on top her brother Zach, Ash and his brother Max, and we had the ultimate little found family 🥹. And MAX?! He is my favorite character. I am BEGGING for him to get his own book.
And speaking of their own books… I can't wait for Chrissy's book! The little tease at the end for her story has me so excited to read more from this series in the future.
As you can tell by my rating and rambling I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I would absolutely recommend reading it this time of year too. It covers basically the months of September through to December. So get a nice hot beverage, a cozy blanket, and curl up with this cute romcom 🤗
Ahhh the day has finally arrived! I can't believe this book is finally out in the world. I have loved this cute little book in secret since way back in March when I Beta read this for Amber and have been waiting (semi-patiently) to gush to all of you!
🐈⬛ College Romance
🍁 Found Family
🍂 Male Mental Health Rep
🍁 Fall Vibes
🐈⬛ Long-term Crush
If you're looking for a low stakes romance in a college setting with cozy season vibes, and top tier spice, then look no further than this. I am not a mushy gushy person but I was blushing and kicking my feet like a child reading this. So cute!
Firstly, this book felt oddly nostalgic for me. Not that I had a cute little college romance, but the way Gwen describes her crush on Ash is very reminiscent of that feeling of having your first all consuming crush. It makes you crazy. Then to have that someone actually like you back? IMPOSSIBLE 😅. We've all been there and it was written in such a wholesome way that had my heart fluttering.
Secondly, the TEASING that Amber did in this was so good! I was screaming JUST KISS ALREADY so many times until they finally got together. And oh man when they got together 🥵. This cute little cover may look innocent, but I promise you the spice in here was shockingly good.
Thirdly, the mental health rep in here, in particular with Ash, was something I really found compelling. Gwen has built Ash up in her head as this idealistic person, but he is flawed like the rest of us. He struggled with his mental health from deep seeded trauma from his past and instead of hiding, he actually gets help. I loved to see it.
Fourthly, I loved Chrissy and Gwen's friendship and the found family aspect here. Chrissy had me cracking up through most of this. I loved how supportive she was of Gwen though. Add on top her brother Zach, Ash and his brother Max, and we had the ultimate little found family 🥹. And MAX?! He is my favorite character. I am BEGGING for him to get his own book.
And speaking of their own books… I can't wait for Chrissy's book! The little tease at the end for her story has me so excited to read more from this series in the future.
As you can tell by my rating and rambling I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I would absolutely recommend reading it this time of year too. It covers basically the months of September through to December. So get a nice hot beverage, a cozy blanket, and curl up with this cute romcom 🤗
October 25, 2023
"Tell me you're mine." His words float into my ear. "I'm yours." My breathing matches his as he pumps inside me……"Say it again," he orders. "I'm all yours."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Contemporary Romance 📖
I recently read Forever Crushed by Amber Paige and this story was exactly what my heart needed! This contemporary romance was fun, cozy, and definitely swoon-worthy. Forever Crushed is full of tension, coming of age life lessons, mental health representation, flirtatious banter, the best fall feels, and wonderful spice! It felt like a breath of much needed fresh air amongst my typical dark fantasy, paranormal, and romantasy reads. The added spice by this wonderful author felt genuine, fun, and perfectly balanced in the romance that develops between the main characters and I devoured it!
I adored Gwen’s relationship with Chrissy and the found family aspect/relationship our female main character has with her small group of friends and co-workers. There were so many heartwarming moments amongst the characters, and I honestly loved following along as Gwen and Ash developed a very flirtatious friendship that ultimately grew into something more. The overall plot was interesting and focused on key relationships, and several coming-of-age topics such as personal growth, choosing our own families, healthy boundaries, and processing past traumas.
The characters felt well developed and balanced as the author explored some of these more difficult topics. As mentioned, this story gives all the best fall vibes with fun autumn activities and so many Halloween surprises. I swooned hard while grinning like a fool over Ash and Gwen and that made this such a fun, cozy, and perfect fall romance read for me!
I would recommend Forever Crushed to those who love romantasy and contemporary romance. This story is available now on Kindle Unlimited!
My most sincere and genuine thanks to Amber Paige for having me on your ARC team for Forever Crushed!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Contemporary Romance 📖
I recently read Forever Crushed by Amber Paige and this story was exactly what my heart needed! This contemporary romance was fun, cozy, and definitely swoon-worthy. Forever Crushed is full of tension, coming of age life lessons, mental health representation, flirtatious banter, the best fall feels, and wonderful spice! It felt like a breath of much needed fresh air amongst my typical dark fantasy, paranormal, and romantasy reads. The added spice by this wonderful author felt genuine, fun, and perfectly balanced in the romance that develops between the main characters and I devoured it!
I adored Gwen’s relationship with Chrissy and the found family aspect/relationship our female main character has with her small group of friends and co-workers. There were so many heartwarming moments amongst the characters, and I honestly loved following along as Gwen and Ash developed a very flirtatious friendship that ultimately grew into something more. The overall plot was interesting and focused on key relationships, and several coming-of-age topics such as personal growth, choosing our own families, healthy boundaries, and processing past traumas.
The characters felt well developed and balanced as the author explored some of these more difficult topics. As mentioned, this story gives all the best fall vibes with fun autumn activities and so many Halloween surprises. I swooned hard while grinning like a fool over Ash and Gwen and that made this such a fun, cozy, and perfect fall romance read for me!
I would recommend Forever Crushed to those who love romantasy and contemporary romance. This story is available now on Kindle Unlimited!
My most sincere and genuine thanks to Amber Paige for having me on your ARC team for Forever Crushed!
September 21, 2024
I would say that this was a 2.75/5 ⭐️ read for me.
Overall, I just don’t think this hit the mark for me.
I did almost DNF this after the first two chapters or so because the math wasn’t mathing with a couple of items on the schedule. How can you be three years into a science major, and be in two 100 level science classes? Also, she clearly stated that she had these two classes on specific days of the week, but then went to the same class two days in a row? That didn’t make much sense to me.
Also, this was listed for a STEM trope, but didn’t feel like that was indicated very well. I would have liked to see more about that throughout, rather than how much she was obsessing over Ash while in her classes.
The overall feel of the relationships felt more YA than I think I would’ve anticipated. With the MC’s being three years into college, I would’ve liked to not feel like they were still in high school. But also, can we talk about how QUICKLY they moved. I think the book could’ve ended at 45% with their relationship feelings, and it wouldn’t have made a difference, in my opinion.
I do, however, think that Paige hit some good topics, and was very tender-hearted around mental health, and some of the other trigger warnings.
Last note - the spice. First, if my aunt is reading this review, forewarning, you won’t like this book! Second, in the acknowledgments, Paige mentions that this is her first try at a spicy book, and I feel like I understood that throughout the whole book. I don’t have any other notes on that.
This one wasn’t for me. 🤷🏼♀️
Overall, I just don’t think this hit the mark for me.
I did almost DNF this after the first two chapters or so because the math wasn’t mathing with a couple of items on the schedule. How can you be three years into a science major, and be in two 100 level science classes? Also, she clearly stated that she had these two classes on specific days of the week, but then went to the same class two days in a row? That didn’t make much sense to me.
Also, this was listed for a STEM trope, but didn’t feel like that was indicated very well. I would have liked to see more about that throughout, rather than how much she was obsessing over Ash while in her classes.
The overall feel of the relationships felt more YA than I think I would’ve anticipated. With the MC’s being three years into college, I would’ve liked to not feel like they were still in high school. But also, can we talk about how QUICKLY they moved. I think the book could’ve ended at 45% with their relationship feelings, and it wouldn’t have made a difference, in my opinion.
I do, however, think that Paige hit some good topics, and was very tender-hearted around mental health, and some of the other trigger warnings.
Last note - the spice. First, if my aunt is reading this review, forewarning, you won’t like this book! Second, in the acknowledgments, Paige mentions that this is her first try at a spicy book, and I feel like I understood that throughout the whole book. I don’t have any other notes on that.
This one wasn’t for me. 🤷🏼♀️
October 28, 2023
I fell in love with this book!
4.5 ⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️spice
I was not expecting this book to be as amazing as it was. It had me captured beginning to end! The writing is phenomenal.
Ash was swoon worthy every step of the way. I loved his personality, wit, and his flirty side. The way he flirts made me swoon every time! And the spice was epic. Ash has a dirty mouth and I am here for it! He was an all around amazing character, just little broken and traumatized....honestly who isn't these days. Ash has his heartbroken in the worst way but still believed in real love. Once Ash meets Gwen he questions whether or not he's ready for another relationship.
"Maybe she's different. And maybe, just maybe, she can show me what real love feels like." -Ash
Gwen is such a sweet heart I fell in love with her personality right away. Her compassion, wit, sarcasm, and strength made me love her so much. Her heart went to Ash right away when she saw him down and beaten. She was willing be a friend to him to help him heal from his past despite having a crush on him since high school. Gwen made him feel seen and worthy of love. Ash and Gwen feel for each other so fast, they are meant to be together.
"He let himself fall for me, even if he wasn't one hundred percent ready to fall again...You and me. I promise." -Gwen
I also love the group of friends that Gwen has, they took in Ash no questions asked and showed him what friendship really is and how it should be. I can't wait for the other books in this series to release! This book is a must read!
4.5 ⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️spice
I was not expecting this book to be as amazing as it was. It had me captured beginning to end! The writing is phenomenal.
Ash was swoon worthy every step of the way. I loved his personality, wit, and his flirty side. The way he flirts made me swoon every time! And the spice was epic. Ash has a dirty mouth and I am here for it! He was an all around amazing character, just little broken and traumatized....honestly who isn't these days. Ash has his heartbroken in the worst way but still believed in real love. Once Ash meets Gwen he questions whether or not he's ready for another relationship.
"Maybe she's different. And maybe, just maybe, she can show me what real love feels like." -Ash
Gwen is such a sweet heart I fell in love with her personality right away. Her compassion, wit, sarcasm, and strength made me love her so much. Her heart went to Ash right away when she saw him down and beaten. She was willing be a friend to him to help him heal from his past despite having a crush on him since high school. Gwen made him feel seen and worthy of love. Ash and Gwen feel for each other so fast, they are meant to be together.
"He let himself fall for me, even if he wasn't one hundred percent ready to fall again...You and me. I promise." -Gwen
I also love the group of friends that Gwen has, they took in Ash no questions asked and showed him what friendship really is and how it should be. I can't wait for the other books in this series to release! This book is a must read!
January 12, 2024
Forever Crushed has taken me out of my fantasy mood and warmed me up from this cold weather.
Gwen Roman is a person you’d want as a friend. She’s caring, loving, kind and funny. All her insecurities go away when she is with her hilarious extraverted friend Chrissy and her high school crush Ash Waylen. This young lady goes through some immense character development throughout the book, which I found inspiring. This Halloween basic bitch adores grumpy cats and is clumsy as hell. Making her imperfectly perfect.
Ash Waylon is recovering from a massive break-up with his toxic ex-girlfriend. And with a childhood with toxic parents, he has some… trust issues. However, he can’t seem to ignore the magnetic pull towards clumsy Gwen Roman. They start exchanging notes in class, and one thing leads to another. This man is protective, broken and a huge brainiac. (I wish he could’ve taken my STEM exams) Be warned, Ash Waylon will be your next book boyfriend.
Besides our MC’s, we also read about some side characters with their unique personalities, and together they create the perfect found family (including a chaotic cat).
Because the story is set around fall/winter it is the perfect spicy college romance to read during fall with a cosy blanket and a hot drink. This book will make you laugh, emotional and blush like an idiot.
I can’t wait to return to Castle Brook University.
Gwen Roman is a person you’d want as a friend. She’s caring, loving, kind and funny. All her insecurities go away when she is with her hilarious extraverted friend Chrissy and her high school crush Ash Waylen. This young lady goes through some immense character development throughout the book, which I found inspiring. This Halloween basic bitch adores grumpy cats and is clumsy as hell. Making her imperfectly perfect.
Ash Waylon is recovering from a massive break-up with his toxic ex-girlfriend. And with a childhood with toxic parents, he has some… trust issues. However, he can’t seem to ignore the magnetic pull towards clumsy Gwen Roman. They start exchanging notes in class, and one thing leads to another. This man is protective, broken and a huge brainiac. (I wish he could’ve taken my STEM exams) Be warned, Ash Waylon will be your next book boyfriend.
Besides our MC’s, we also read about some side characters with their unique personalities, and together they create the perfect found family (including a chaotic cat).
Because the story is set around fall/winter it is the perfect spicy college romance to read during fall with a cosy blanket and a hot drink. This book will make you laugh, emotional and blush like an idiot.
I can’t wait to return to Castle Brook University.
July 21, 2025
2.75/5 ⭐️
Forever Crushed miało być uroczą jesienną historią, w której znajdę coś na wzór pumpkin spice latte – trochę pikantności i uroczej relacji, a zamiast tego dostałam... nieudany napój, zbyt mleczny oraz przesadzoną przyprawą korzenną.
Z początku pomyślałam, że początek relacji między Ashem i Gwen jest przesłodki, ale gdy doszło do momentu ich rzeczywistego zauważenia... kawa się rozlała. Naprawdę relacja głównych bohaterów mnie strasznie zawiodła.
W przeciwieństwie do przyjaźni Gwen i Chrissy, która absolutnie skradła moje serce. Naprawdę mogłabym przeczytać całą książkę o ich przyjaźni, bo była tak pięknie opisana!
Ogromne plusy też za wątek zdrowia psychicznego i szukania pomocy u specjalisty przez MĘŻCZYZNĘ!! Tak mało się o tym mówi, a wszyscy zdajemy się jak bardzo jest w tej kwestii reprezentacja, aby znormalizować chodzenie do psychologów.
Wątek z 3 aktu tak mnie załamał, że ostatecznie wpłynął on bardzo na moją ocenę książki, bo nigdy w życiu tak bardzo się nie zawiodłam na jakieś książce.
Forever Crushed miało być uroczą jesienną historią, w której znajdę coś na wzór pumpkin spice latte – trochę pikantności i uroczej relacji, a zamiast tego dostałam... nieudany napój, zbyt mleczny oraz przesadzoną przyprawą korzenną.
Z początku pomyślałam, że początek relacji między Ashem i Gwen jest przesłodki, ale gdy doszło do momentu ich rzeczywistego zauważenia... kawa się rozlała. Naprawdę relacja głównych bohaterów mnie strasznie zawiodła.
W przeciwieństwie do przyjaźni Gwen i Chrissy, która absolutnie skradła moje serce. Naprawdę mogłabym przeczytać całą książkę o ich przyjaźni, bo była tak pięknie opisana!
Ogromne plusy też za wątek zdrowia psychicznego i szukania pomocy u specjalisty przez MĘŻCZYZNĘ!! Tak mało się o tym mówi, a wszyscy zdajemy się jak bardzo jest w tej kwestii reprezentacja, aby znormalizować chodzenie do psychologów.
Wątek z 3 aktu tak mnie załamał, że ostatecznie wpłynął on bardzo na moją ocenę książki, bo nigdy w życiu tak bardzo się nie zawiodłam na jakieś książce.
October 17, 2023
This book was so cute and fun and spicy 🥵 I was actually a little surprised at the amount of spice, don’t let this cover deceive you! But I enjoyed reading about Ash and Gwen finding comfort and love in each other, and about their found family, since all the parents suck in this story (except the Willows of course). Also the use of therapy to work through problems! Yes! Love how this is just normalized in this. Also Pickles… I want a Pickles. Even if my orange tabby roommate is terror enough already. I’m hoping the end was hinting at a next book, focusing on Chrissy, because I am HERE for it. It was an honor being on the ARC team for this, Amber!
October 15, 2023
i LOVED this book - ESPECIALLY the second half. the mental health representation and therapy and working through trauma together as a couple is so important to me. it's so real and hard and that's life!! this book was amazing. the more i sit and ponder it, the more i love it. the found family (always my favorite) was pure, and i found myself so jealous LOL i want that!!! 😘
i loved the little tidbits of Gwen's favorite book, Symbol of Hope 💙🩵💙 and i loved the devotion between Zack, Chrissy, and Gwen SO much. that bond of chosen family is so lovely to read about.
AMBER you've outdone yourself (again)!
thank you for trusting me with your book reviews and arcs. i loved every second. 💖
i loved the little tidbits of Gwen's favorite book, Symbol of Hope 💙🩵💙 and i loved the devotion between Zack, Chrissy, and Gwen SO much. that bond of chosen family is so lovely to read about.
AMBER you've outdone yourself (again)!
thank you for trusting me with your book reviews and arcs. i loved every second. 💖
April 14, 2024
Because I wanted to try reading multiple books at once, one for grind and one just to relax and read, I decided to pick up Forever crushed. And may I say… I did not expect this! My inner kid who read books on Wattpad felt so happy as I scrolled through the pages on my Kindle! 😍 It felt like I was being brought back to my Wattpad years.
Thank you so much, Amber Paige!!
Don’t get me started on the spice 🥵🌶️🌶️
It might not have been as intense as fifthy shades of grey, but I was SHOCKED when I first read the spicy part in the book. I just didn’t see it coming, but my oh my!
Also, I just want to say… Pickles is my spirit animal, man I love that cat and his chaos 😩🫶🏼
10/10 would recommend!
I can’t wait for the 2nd book in the series
Thank you so much, Amber Paige!!
Don’t get me started on the spice 🥵🌶️🌶️
It might not have been as intense as fifthy shades of grey, but I was SHOCKED when I first read the spicy part in the book. I just didn’t see it coming, but my oh my!
Also, I just want to say… Pickles is my spirit animal, man I love that cat and his chaos 😩🫶🏼
10/10 would recommend!
I can’t wait for the 2nd book in the series
October 3, 2023
Amazing. I loved everything about this book. The love that was found after so much disappointment for everyone involved was beyond heartwarming. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. The love I have for the cats in this story is just dumb. I will forever recommend this book, and I cannot wait for the next story by Amber! Another perfect read from our girl!
October 14, 2023
This book was incredible from start to finish! I loved how incredible the characters are and I found myself laughing along with them quite a bit! I loved seeing how each of them grew from the start to the finish of the book. Thank you so much for the arc! I cannot wait to read more by you!
October 18, 2023
I read out of my comfort zone, and I LOVED IT! I related so much to the characters' struggles. This was my first college romance book, but what got me was the mental health rep and found family. Gwen has had a long-term crush on Ash, and reading their story was so sweet. I related to Gwen's shyness and anxiety. To Ash healing from being cheated on and learning that he deserves love. I love her kindness that attracted Ash to her, and their spice they found together was so so good. It's a great fall book, and I'm so happy I read it!
February 1, 2024
This book was so cute! It was cheesy and even a little cringy at times but overall it had me giggling and really invested in the characters developments. It was a lot smuttier than I was expecting and I’m not complaining about it! 🥵
Read
September 22, 2023Pick up this book if you love tropes like, found family, mental health rep, and college romance.
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review*
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review*
October 4, 2023
A sweet fall read, full of nostalgia. I adored it
October 17, 2023
Perfect Fall Romance 💕
Forever Crushed is a heart warming college romance about a girl that I think everyone can see themselves in and the guy she’s been dreaming about forever: Gwen and Ash. This book had me grinning from ear to ear with their banter and the friendships between all of the characters were so real and vivid. We all want a friend like Chrissy! The side characters were all wonderfully written and so fun to read. Max stole my heart! And the spicy scenes were SPICY!
I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this book. It was perfect for the fall, and it definitely had me falling in love right along with Gwen and Ash.
Forever Crushed is a heart warming college romance about a girl that I think everyone can see themselves in and the guy she’s been dreaming about forever: Gwen and Ash. This book had me grinning from ear to ear with their banter and the friendships between all of the characters were so real and vivid. We all want a friend like Chrissy! The side characters were all wonderfully written and so fun to read. Max stole my heart! And the spicy scenes were SPICY!
I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this book. It was perfect for the fall, and it definitely had me falling in love right along with Gwen and Ash.
January 20, 2024
I only finished this for the cat
October 26, 2023
4.75 !!!!
Honestly, I am only rating it 4.75 because I felt like a few areas were a teensy bit repetitive when it came to expressing their feelings for the other in their mind. I really loved that it was a bunch of short chapters and was hooked from beginning to end.
If you are looking for a quick, spicy, fun romcom read, then this is a perfect book for you!
First of all, I just want to start by saying that Pickles is the star of the show. I am a huge cat person and he reminded me of my cat that passed away last year. They acted VERY similarly and I loved the chaotic energy he always had.
Gwen is a sweet, shy girl who likes to keep her head in her books. She has had a long term crush since high school on Ash Waylen, who is the cool, laid back guy. It follows the evolutions of their relationship, while also touching on their journeys with mental health and how to overcome trust issues and insecurities. How to take it one day at a time. Another thing I really loved about this book was the friendship that Gwen and Chrissy have. Those two had me cracking up so many times. One of the most pleasant surprises of this book was Ash Waylen's MOUTH. Boy does he have one and I was here for every minute of it. 🙌🏼
This book had me laughing, smiling, giggling, blushing, tearing up, and kicking my feet. This book is perfect for a Fall read and if you are a lover of contemporary romance!
Honestly, I am only rating it 4.75 because I felt like a few areas were a teensy bit repetitive when it came to expressing their feelings for the other in their mind. I really loved that it was a bunch of short chapters and was hooked from beginning to end.
If you are looking for a quick, spicy, fun romcom read, then this is a perfect book for you!
First of all, I just want to start by saying that Pickles is the star of the show. I am a huge cat person and he reminded me of my cat that passed away last year. They acted VERY similarly and I loved the chaotic energy he always had.
Gwen is a sweet, shy girl who likes to keep her head in her books. She has had a long term crush since high school on Ash Waylen, who is the cool, laid back guy. It follows the evolutions of their relationship, while also touching on their journeys with mental health and how to overcome trust issues and insecurities. How to take it one day at a time. Another thing I really loved about this book was the friendship that Gwen and Chrissy have. Those two had me cracking up so many times. One of the most pleasant surprises of this book was Ash Waylen's MOUTH. Boy does he have one and I was here for every minute of it. 🙌🏼
This book had me laughing, smiling, giggling, blushing, tearing up, and kicking my feet. This book is perfect for a Fall read and if you are a lover of contemporary romance!
September 24, 2023
“How did you capture my heart so quickly?” He trails his knuckles over my cheeks and jawline. “How did you keep mine for so long?”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was so good! Forever Crushed is a second chance college romance that starts off when classes resume after summer break. I absolutely adored the vibe of this story. Gwen Roman and Ash Waylen are both such likable characters and I found myself interested in their journey right away. I love that Gwen is going to school for a degree in a STEM career. I love that Ash takes bio-chem for fun. The supporting characters are also fantastic. This really has it all; it’s witty, emotional, spicy, inspiring, and most of all, relatable.
The writing is incredible. The pacing is great and I never felt like it lulled or dragged. I also didn’t feel as though it was moving at lightning speed. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned on several occasions. I had the best time with this and almost didn’t want it to end, though I was extremely satisfied with the conclusion when it rolled around.
Elements that I really loved included the male mental health rep and the found family between the cast of characters. Both are tropes that can be done poorly, but that was not the case here. I was extremely pleased to see the way mental health was approached and portrayed. It was so positive and incredibly well represented and I really appreciate the care with which it was addressed.
I have nothing but glowing praise for this book. If you love cozy romance, the fall season, and enjoy found family, this book is for you. I’m looking forward to reading this again AT LEAST once a year. I am Forever Crushed and I’m totally here for it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book was so good! Forever Crushed is a second chance college romance that starts off when classes resume after summer break. I absolutely adored the vibe of this story. Gwen Roman and Ash Waylen are both such likable characters and I found myself interested in their journey right away. I love that Gwen is going to school for a degree in a STEM career. I love that Ash takes bio-chem for fun. The supporting characters are also fantastic. This really has it all; it’s witty, emotional, spicy, inspiring, and most of all, relatable.
The writing is incredible. The pacing is great and I never felt like it lulled or dragged. I also didn’t feel as though it was moving at lightning speed. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned on several occasions. I had the best time with this and almost didn’t want it to end, though I was extremely satisfied with the conclusion when it rolled around.
Elements that I really loved included the male mental health rep and the found family between the cast of characters. Both are tropes that can be done poorly, but that was not the case here. I was extremely pleased to see the way mental health was approached and portrayed. It was so positive and incredibly well represented and I really appreciate the care with which it was addressed.
I have nothing but glowing praise for this book. If you love cozy romance, the fall season, and enjoy found family, this book is for you. I’m looking forward to reading this again AT LEAST once a year. I am Forever Crushed and I’m totally here for it.
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