Forever Boy

by Michael J. Bowler

Outcast Isaac and popular Stephanie have barely spoken in all their years in school. Now, in the ninth grade, their lives become intertwined with a strange boy from eastern Europe named Drágan Albescu.

Everything about Drágan is exotic, from his vintage style of dress to his flowing long hair and delicate features. But he’s also shrouded in great mystery.

He reveals that he’s a fashion model, so Stephanie searches his image on the internet and discovers modeling photos dating back to the 1920’s. Then there’s the valise Drágan carries that’s so heavy Isaac can’t lift it.

Drágan also possesses more knowledge and wisdom than all the teachers at school, coupled with the uncanny ability to discern what others long to keep private, a power that particularly frightens Stephanie due to her own dark secrets.

Who is this enigmatic boy who becomes the best friend Isaac ever had? Why do bullies at school suddenly stop their bullying? And what about the dead deer found torn to shreds in the woods?

When Isaac and Stephanie learn the full truth about their new friend, they’ll almost wish they hadn’t.

294 pages, Hardcover

Published September 24, 2024

About the author

Michael J. Bowler is an award-winning author who grew up in Northern California. He majored in English/Theatre at Santa Clara University, earned a master’s in film production from Loyola Marymount University, a teaching credential in English from LMU, and a master’s in Special Education from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. Michael taught high school in Hawthorne, California for many years, both in general education and students with disabilities. When Michael is not writing you can find him volunteering as a youth mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, volunteering within the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles, or caring for his newly adopted son. He is a passionate advocate for the fair treatment of children and teens in California, and hopes his books can show young people they are not alone in their struggles.

You can find Michael at:
Website: www.michaeljbowler.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com/Michael-J.-Bowler/e/B0...
Facebook: www.facebook.com/michaeljbowlerauthor
Twitter: twitter.com/BradleyWallaceM
tumblr: michaeljbowler.tumblr.com
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/michaelbowler
Instagram: www.instagram.com/stuntshark
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2NX...

Reviews

[READER VIEWS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Drágan Albescu is not an attention seeker. Yet he manages to draw the eye of nearly everyone around him, no matter where he goes. He is, to be sure, worth a second look. His slim, muscular build, beautiful face, and long wavy hair set him apart from most. If that doesn’t do it, then his vintage clothing and unusual manner of speech will. He is absolutely unlike anyone 14-year-old Isaac has ever met. This is “Forever Boy,” the first book in Michael J. Bowler’s The Forever Saga.

Isaac is hearing impaired, relying on hearing aids to help him survive in an auditory society that often disdains those who are different- a society like school, where he has no real friends to support him. He has no father in his life either, living with just his mom, who does her best to give him a loving home. As the story progresses with Isaac and Drágan becoming good friends, readers begin to realize just how wonderful Isaac’s mom is. She’s the kind of mom all kids wish they had; one who listens to and believes in her child. One who will do anything, no matter how outside the norm it may be, to enrich her child’s life. For a secondary character, she’s got a lot of heart… and spunk.

Drágan is a complete enigma. A boy seemingly outside of time of place. A teen who carries around a ridiculously heavy valise and eats raw bacon when he thinks no one is looking. Who not only speaks oddly, but who has worldly wisdom well beyond his teenaged appearance, and who claims to have no family. He becomes not only a comfort, mentor, and friend to Isaac, but a bit of a champion as well. Isaac’s entire gym class discovers just how strongly Drágan feels about Isaac’s well-being when he sees him being bullied at school and confronts the coach about it, asking him if he knows Isaac’s name:

Confused, [Coach] Lancaster glanced at Isaac like he would a bug. “I don’t know. The kid who’s deaf, I think. What’s that have to do—”

“His name is Isaac Foster,” Drágan interrupted, “and he’s hearing impaired, not deaf. He’s also the boy you have belittled since school began. You cannot even correctly recall his disability, yet you humiliate him for making mistakes typical for one with hearing loss. Further, you ignore, or more likely encourage, your brutish football players to trip him and other smaller students because, I suppose, you find such behavior amusing.”

Wouldn’t it be great if all kids could have a champion like Drágan?

But Drágan holds dark secrets. As the bond between the boys strengthens, Drágan begins to peel back the dark curtain on who he really is. This is a bell that can’t be unrung; a sight that cannot be unseen. As Isaac begins to comprehend is shaken to his core.

Michael J. Bowler has created a moving teen read in “Forever Boy,” with characters who will engage, delight, and enchant readers. Drágan is mesmerizing. Isaac is relatable. Secondary characters show actions and feelings typical for their age group while displaying the ability to observe and grow. Major themes within this storyline include loyalty and friendship, with a strong emphasis on perseverance and hope. Bowler has created at once a brilliant story that captures the imagination as well as a cast of characters who embody positivity and encouragement. They don’t all start out as good friends, but Drágan acts as a bridge between characters- bringing them together and helping them relate with each other. The result is remarkable and makes a great story regardless of the reader’s age.

“Forever Boy” by Michael J. Bowler does not end on a cliffhanger, but it’s obvious the story of Isaac and Drágan is not over yet. As this story raced along at the pace and intensity of a 9th grader being chased by a swarm of bees, I couldn’t imagine what else the author has in store for us. But it’s obvious he’s got more planned for these unforgettable characters, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting book two! I recommend “Forever Boy” to teens and older readers who appreciate well-written suspense stories with elements of the supernatural.

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Forever Boy" by Michael J. Bowler is the opening novel in "The Forever Saga." The story centers on three main characters: Isaac Foster, Stephanie, and Drágan Albescu. Isaac and Drágan, both fourteen, develop a close friendship after Drágan is drawn to Isaac's kindness. Isaac, who has never had many friends, invites Drágan to live with him.

Isaac, a geek, leads a quiet life until Drágan, an orphan who models for a living, comes along. Drágan's mysterious nature piques Isaac’s interest, especially when Isaac tries, and fails, to lift Drágan’s unusually heavy valise, which Drágan manages with ease. Isaac grows curious about what might be hidden inside.

When Drágan steps in to help Stephanie, a schoolmate of Isaac’s with a troubled home life, it sparks more intrigue. Isaac explains that Stephanie is popular and typically doesn't talk to him. Her curiosity about Drágan leads her to discover old photographs of him, dating back to the 1930s and 1940s. This raises the question: Who is Drágan, really?

Bowler’s writing is captivating, with a compelling title and a well-paced narrative that never drags. The unexpected twists kept me engaged, and I particularly enjoyed Isaac’s character. The cover is striking, and the story offers a thrilling ride from start to finish.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was right up my alley. I enjoy mysterious and eerie stories written for the younger crowd. I’d love to have had more books like this to read when I was younger. I still enjoy them even though I’m an adult.

Isaac isn’t popular. He’s almost invisible to the other ninth graders in his school. Except for the bullies, unfortunately. That all changes when he meets Dragan. A strange boy. He acts much older than his age. Talks like someone much older. Dresses odd too. They form a friendship. Right from the beginning Dragan stands out. And people are drawn to him. Isaac is no longer alone. He’s got friends. And Dragan is his best one. He stands up for Isaac and others who are targets.

But, Isaac knows there’s more to Dragan than meets the eye. And one day Dragan shares his secret. And Isaac’s world is forever changed…. by the Forever Boy.

I read this straight through. I really wanted to know where the author was taking things. I had no idea and that made it hard to stop until I found out. And I loved the characters. How they formed a tight knit friendship. Supported and encouraged each other. I’m hoping their stories continue as it’s listed as book one.

I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.

[Country Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book as soon as I read the first few pages and one of the main characters named Dragan, is amazing. He is a 14-year-old who is an old soul and talks like one. He claims to be an orphan without parents which explains why is traveling by himself through Isaac’s town. Dragan also carries and ancient bag with them and when he meets Isaac they hit it off immediately and he is welcome to stay at Isaac’s house.
The story starts to get very interesting when Isaac finds out what’s inside Dragan’s bag. I love the writing style of this author as the story was engaging from the very first page. And I find the mystery of Dragan and his origins story to be quite interesting throughout this book, I also enjoyed the relationship between Isaac and Dragan and how it turned into an unexpected relationship at the end of the book. I love the character of Dragan as in a way he reminds me a lot of my husband with his high intelligence and the way he doesn’t really fit in in current modern society almost like he belongs in a different time period.
I highly recommend this book to the readers of paranormal books and also it is a story about a great friendship between several characters.

[Eni Reads]

I enjoyed every bit of the book because it offers essential lessons from the story, like embracing one's identity and the journey to self-acceptance is critical for personal growth, and that strong relationships provide the foundation for resilience in the face of adversity. True heroism often requires confronting inner fears and insecurities.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Boy is a paranormal book by Micheal J. Bowler about a young boy named Isaac who met a boy and became friends with him only to discover something shocking and mysterious about him. Isaac, a ninth grader, is an outcast at school. One day, he came across a young boy named Drágan who told him that he was an orphan. Isaac decided to take him home and introduced him to his mother. After much thought on how he would survive as an orphan, Mrs. Penelope, Isaac's mother, who is used to taking in foster children, decided to let him stay at their house. A few hours into Drágan's presence at his house, Isaac has a weird feeling about him. He was curious to know more about him but did not pry into his privacy. Dragán soon enrolled into the same school as Isaac and even helped him deal with the bullies who had been terrorizing him. One night, Issac went out into the woods with Dragan. In the woods, Isaac discovered something about Drágan that left him dumbfounded. It was a secret that posed a threat to Isaac's friendly relationship with Drágan. What was the secret? Do you think Isaac would still be friends with Drágan after this discovery?

Opinion:
The novel's plot is an engaging, yet spooky one. It centers around Isaac and his life with his newfound friend. At first, Isaac felt like an outcast, but after the arrival of Drágan at school, it all became bearable. Yet, the fact that Isaac felt some difference and strangeness in Drágan's behavior made it more creepy to Isaac, and when Isaac finally found out about Drágan and his past stories, he felt disheartened. Some parts were heartbreaking to me, like the part where Drágan told Isaac how he lost his family. In some chapters, there were interludes which explained Drágan's life and stories about his past life that he wished to tell to Isaac.

There was a friendly relationship that existed between Isaac, Drágan, and other young characters. This relationship made Isaac and Drágan feel like they belonged somewhere. It even made Drágan able to freely express himself, unlike in the past. The characters were a great asset to the story. Isaac is a caring character who brought Drágan to his home and made him feel welcomed. He is also a horror movie freak who looks forward to becoming a film director. Dragán Albescu, called Drágan, is a unique being (I wouldn't want to spoil it) with many experiences which he gained over time in life, the people he has related with, and others that one can only imagine. He is a straightforward, honest, and caring character. Even though he has encountered painful tragedies, he does not let his feelings get in the way of helping others. Well, there were other characters, but these two stood out to me because of their profound relationship.

The book was set in Millwood, a small old town where almost everyone knew each other. The places used in the book include Isaac's house where Isaac, his mom, Penelope, and Drágan live, the school where Isaac and Drágan attend, and other places like the woods, more like a forest, where Drágan took Isaac to occasionally. The author's detailed description of these places created vivid images in my mind as I was able to picture places like Isaac's house and the woods.

The plot, characters, and settings are what made the book very captivating and interesting, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael J. Bowler’s Forever Boy offers a captivating blend of mystery and the ordinary in this coming-of-age novel, centered on Isaac, an outsider in ninth grade, and his encounter with the enigmatic Drágan. From the moment Drágan steps into Isaac's school, it’s clear he’s no typical student. His appearance is striking, as though plucked from a high-end fashion catalog, and his demeanor hints at wisdom far beyond his years. He moves through life with an independence that is both alluring and unnerving, a mix that makes him as intriguing as he is unsettling. As Drágan reveals his many layers, one can’t help but wonder: is he a hidden blessing, or a lurking curse?

Bowler masterfully balances the supernatural elements with the mundane realities of high school life, crafting a narrative that’s both engaging and easy to follow. The language is straightforward, making the novel accessible to a wide readership. However, while its simplicity widens its appeal, it may not fully resonate with a younger teenage audience who might crave more age-specific dialogue. Still, this clarity is a strength, allowing the story's deeper themes to shine through. The chapter titles are a clever touch, offering hints about what’s to come and keeping the pacing smooth, helping readers anticipate the twists and turns ahead. At its core, Forever Boy explores familiar coming-of-age themes—school cliques, bullying, friendship, and identity—but with an added layer of complexity. Bowler doesn’t shy away from tackling heavier subjects like sexual assault, addressing them with sensitivity and purpose. This thoughtful approach gives the story emotional depth, elevating it beyond a typical high school narrative.

The slow-burn romance, a refreshing change from more fast-paced teen love stories, adds a realistic touch, grounding the supernatural elements with a sense of authenticity. Bowler has a gift for weaving together a diverse cast, ensuring that each character contributes meaningfully to the plot. While Drágan stands out as the focal point, the supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding richness to the narrative. Character growth is pivotal in a coming-of-age story, and Forever Boy excels in this area. Each transformation feels genuine and relatable, echoing the significant personal changes that define adolescence. Readers will likely find reflections of themselves in these characters, making their journeys all the more impactful.

Forever Boy is a combination of accessible language, emotional depth, and well-rounded characters, making it a standout read. The novel thoughtfully navigates the complexities of teenage life, weaving in themes of growth, friendship, and self-discovery with care. Its universal themes will resonate with a broad audience. For those who enjoy character-driven stories with a dash of mystery and emotional resonance, Forever Boy is a book worth exploring.

[Lia Anshar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael J. Bowler’s "Forever Boy" weaves a compelling tale of friendship, mystery, and the unknown, delivering a story that lingers in the mind long after the last page. Rooted in the everyday struggles of adolescence yet layered with paranormal intrigue, this novel strikes a delicate balance between emotional depth and suspense.

Isaac, the protagonist, is a ninth-grade outcast grappling with loneliness and bullying. Bowler vividly portrays his isolation and quiet yearning for connection, making him a relatable character whose experiences resonate deeply. When Isaac encounters Drágan, a mysterious orphan, his life takes an unexpected turn. Drágan's arrival in Isaac's home, thanks to Mrs. Penelope’s compassionate decision to take him in, marks the beginning of a friendship that feels both heartfelt and shadowed by secrets.

The dynamic between Isaac and Drágan is the heart of the story. Drágan’s protective nature, highlighted by his defense of Isaac against school bullies, creates a bond of trust and loyalty. However, Bowler doesn’t let this friendship settle into comfort. Isaac’s growing suspicion of Drágan’s true nature and the unsettling discovery in the woods inject a sense of unease that keeps readers on edge.

Bowler’s ability to juxtapose ordinary teenage struggles with a looming supernatural mystery is a testament to his storytelling skill. The novel examines themes of trust, identity, and the complexity of relationships. Isaac’s dilemma after uncovering Drágan’s secret is particularly poignant, exploring the tension between loyalty and fear, and raising questions about whether friendship can survive shocking revelations.

The story’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for the gradual buildup of suspense. The eerie, atmospheric scenes in the woods are especially gripping, immersing readers in Isaac’s sense of wonder and dread. At the same time, the novel remains grounded in the challenges of adolescence: bullying, the desire to belong, and the search for identity.

"Forever Boy" is a captivating exploration of friendship and the unknown, inviting readers to consider how far they would go to maintain a bond when faced with startling truths. As the first book in a series, it sets the stage for further exploration of the mysteries surrounding Drágan while leaving enough unanswered to keep readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. Fans of paranormal fiction with a strong emotional core will find this a rewarding read.

[Neena · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Bowler’s debut in The Forever Saga, a seemingly simple high school friendship spirals into a chilling descent into mystery and intrigue, plunging two teenagers into a web of dangerous secrets. Isaac and Stephanie are two high schoolers who occupy opposite ends of the social spectrum. Their mundane existence is upended by the arrival of Drágan Albescu, a charismatic enigma who possesses an unsettling charm and an uncanny ability to unearth people’s deepest secrets. As the bullies at school suddenly back off and strange events begin to occur, Isaac and Stephanie must confront the terrifying reality of their new friend's true identity.

Bowler builds tension with precision, striking a balance between quiet introspection and high-stakes action. His crisp prose vividly brings Millwood to life, allowing readers to visualize the shadowy hallways and the small-town malaise lurking beneath the surface. The dialogue feels authentic, capturing the contradictions of teenage voices—awkward yet bold, sarcastic yet sincere. Drágan’s magnetic yet ominous influence is the narrative’s driving force. His inscrutable character serves as a foil, embodying both the allure and the danger of the unknown.

Isaac’s struggles with his sense of alienation and his need for acceptance are portrayed skillfully. Stephanie’s role, meanwhile, challenges the conventional narrative of the ‘popular girl,’ providing layers of complexity. The dynamic between Isaac and Stephanie is compelling, pushing against stereotypes of high school hierarchies and preconceived notions about popularity.

Themes of loyalty and self-discovery resonate deeply, while the seamlessly integrated supernatural elements add weight to the story’s exploration of how secrets can shape—and destroy—relationships. The novel invites readers to consider the cost of unveiling hidden truths and the lengths people go to protect themselves. It is a compelling tale that weaves relatable struggles of growing up with a haunting exploration of what lies beneath the surface.

[UjBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like Isaac Foster, your life can take a dramatic turn just by one encounter. Isaac is a 14 year old boy who has been battling with bullying and social isolation due to his limitation from birth. For him, life has been lonely and uneventful but little did he know that his life was about to turn around after meeting Drágan Albescu.

"Forever Boy" by Michael J. Bowler is a young teenage novel that follows the lives of two young fellows; Isaac Foster and Drágan Albescu, set in a small town, Millwood. Their relationship becomes the central focus of the book as they navigate adolescence. The book through Isaac's progress is a remarkable show of self discovery and identity creation. For Dragan, it's a show of the importance of friendship.

Michael's simple writing style is also commendable as it makes the book engaging, relatable and less technical for young adults. The incorporation of horror into what would have been a fantasy genre novel is also another area the author excels at storytelling. However, one area needing improvement is its pacing, particularly at the early part of the book dedicated to background or foundation building.

On the whole, "Forever Boy" by Michael J. Bowler is an epic coming of age young adult novel that will be a good addition for those interested in fantasy and horror genres.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple act of kindness may change your life forever for good. Isaac Foster is just a regular 14-year-old kid in the neighborhood living with his mother, Penelope. Lovely boy, but unfortunately unpopular and insignificant in school, but after Isaac's path crossed with Dragon Albescu, a weird boy who dresses in an archaic manner, Isaac's story is forever changed.

Forever Boy (The Forever Saga Book 1) by Michael J Bowler is a young adult fantasy novel enriched with themes of friendship, family, and overcoming challenges. As we savor the uniqueness of the friendship between Isaac and Dragan, we see the richness of the plot, the cinematic feel of the world-building showcasing the high school and Maine Town, alongside the intricacies of the characters and their connection to the bigger picture. The writing style is deliberately not complex and allows for an easy follow. However, the pacing is particularly slow as it took quite some time and patience to get into the story.

On the whole, Forever Boy (The Forever Saga Book 1) by Michael J. Bowler is an outstanding young reader's fantasy book with a great catch on family and friendship. Every young reader will learn a thing or two about kindness from this book and the importance of helping others.

[Eruore Ekpoh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Boy (The Forever Saga Book 1) by Michael J Bowler is a captivating blend of science fiction, fantasy, and emotional storytelling. The story centers on three main characters: Isaac Foster, Stephanie, and Drágan Albescu. Isaac is a boy who struggles with the scars of his past, thrust into a world unlike anything he has ever known. He discovers his surprising connection to an advanced AI when a catastrophic event threatens humanity. Together they embark on a journey, but would they succeed? I recommend this book for readers interested in stories that tackle ethics and humanity’s relationship with technology and for anyone seeking a balance of action, heart, and thoughtful storytelling.

[Jame_EReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

👧🏻reviews: I read the ebook version, and it felt so out of this world. Dragan and Isaac friendship started strong but as they stride through the story, Dragan became suss and enigmatic. I was trying to channel his inner strength but his purpose, to me, turned deadpan and different. This book’s fantasy went beyond what darkness could be, and the suspense made it impossible to imagine otherwise. I like this book because it’s simply sci-fi and fantastical and the storyline is quite interesting and compelling. I like it!