What do you think?
Rate this book
Forever Man
A bond forged in Catholic school, an unspoken attraction that outlasts years of separation and other relationships.
Ren and Cole never acted on that thing that always bubbled beneath the surface of their friendship, not until a chance encounter in a Santa Fe bar and a song that would tip the scales forced them to confront their feelings. Will the influence of a music superstar, a New York socialite and a mystical property manager finally bring them together, or will a history of missed opportunities, their own fears and an impending wedding keep them apart? Can they just have one night, and then walk away?
Forever Man is a story of the consequences of the choices we make, and how the courage to change can last a lifetime. Based on the fan fiction story, Someone Like You.
Ren and Cole never acted on that thing that always bubbled beneath the surface of their friendship, not until a chance encounter in a Santa Fe bar and a song that would tip the scales forced them to confront their feelings. Will the influence of a music superstar, a New York socialite and a mystical property manager finally bring them together, or will a history of missed opportunities, their own fears and an impending wedding keep them apart? Can they just have one night, and then walk away?
Forever Man is a story of the consequences of the choices we make, and how the courage to change can last a lifetime. Based on the fan fiction story, Someone Like You.
312 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2014
14 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
About the author
A.J. DeWall
1 book33 followersA professional writer for more than 20 years, A.J. DeWall began her career as a playwright in Minneapolis. She is the ghostwriter behind dozens of personal development and business books, including several award winners and bestsellers. As a writer of fan fiction, her online titles have hundreds of thousands of reads. Forever Man is her first novel. She lives in New York with her wife, son and two lazy dogs.
My promise to readers:
You will get a happy ending. Not just because I’m a romantic optimist at heart, and not just because I know from experience that even when the outcome looks bleak, the dream of love fulfilled can still come true; I write love stories that end happily because we all deserve that.
My promise to readers:
You will get a happy ending. Not just because I’m a romantic optimist at heart, and not just because I know from experience that even when the outcome looks bleak, the dream of love fulfilled can still come true; I write love stories that end happily because we all deserve that.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 26, 2014
2 stars. DNF @46 %. Review posted September 26, 2014
There goes my money…let's throw it out of the window, shall we? No worries, I'll get it back. After all, Amazon has such a great return policy.
Honestly, I have paid eight euro for books in the past and I haven’t felt indignant about it at all. But there are a couple nice distinctions: the authors are renowned and their writing skills are excellent. Simply put, they are among my favorites. Thus, I will gladly spend more money for a book that will meet my expectations. Forever Man, however, is
an outrageously overpriced debut novel.
Considering that steep price, I would have expected to read a masterpiece. It is very unfortunate that, in my book, Forever Man failed to deliver.
First off I'd like to advise you to read my first spoiler because for many readers this will be a deal breaker. Ren and Cole
I almost blew a gasket when I read this:
This thought process is ridiculously stupid and absurd. Even more so considering that Ren
Told in first person present tense, I know it's ok to alternate between different POVs, between present tense and past tense. And even though this is a very subjective matter and I'm usually comfortable reading first person present tense, this time around it did not work out for me. Something felt off but, mainly, I felt thrown out of the story several times which I found very annoying.
Another issue of mine was the lack of a really engaging plot. Somewhere along the way my interest petered out and I ended up bored. To make matters worse, it was also way too sugary sweet for my liking. I mean I felt a couple cheesy vibes right from the get-go but after my update at 37 % it took a very sharp and painful turn into Sapsville. It made my teeth hurt.
When I read this I felt slightly nauseated and was like "Uggggghhhhh…how dare he?" It's also very cheesy.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
For once, I completely agree!
They smile knowingly when Cole offers to trade plates with Ren so Ren can have more chicken and Cole can have more pasta. And when Cole starts to squirm in his seat, the proximity to Ren too much to handle without kissing him, they rightly assume that the two lovers will soon make their excuses, express their thanks and slip out before dessert.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
No comment.
Suddenly he's crying again, his tears silent, warm and salty as they slide down his cheeks in single file, wetting Ren's shoulder. He hears the song, his song, his song for Ren, and remembers all of it. Every hopeful thought. Every wish. Every disappointed sigh.
Reading Forever Man reminded me once again why I do love to read m-m. Because I love my men to be men and when I get a chance to read about two guys then all the better. While reading a story I don't want to deal with a sobbing pussy (aka Ren). Eek. On the one hand, I like men to show their vulnerable side but on the other hand, I want them to be...
Strong
Loyal
Reliable
Mature
Honest
Direct
Decisive
Protective
Integer
What irritated me also were all their (annoying) inner ramblings and Ren's deed at 34 % was so incredibly dumb I had to roll my eyes. It must have been a tribute to a B-movie. *headdesk*
Here are a few examples for your perusal:
Will I always take it? Will I always reach for his hand, wrap it up in my own, hold it tightly, again and again? Will I always have the chance to hold it and never let go?
Let me watch you fall apart. Let me take you there, out of time, to that place where you have nothing and everything and all you see is me, all you smell is me, all you know is me, and I am yours. Let me find you there, giving in to me, over and over and over again, until all that we have left is each other and this, this, this.
Ok. They have been chickenshit for fourteen very long years and then out of the blue, while they rip each other's clothes off and they can't keep their hands off each other'scocks bodies. Inner ramblings and other sugary musings consume their respective minds. Add in some yearning glances and a nice helping of sappy dialogue and…excuse me, while I'm a bit peeved here.
In the beginning of the story Ren wanted to buy a door for Deidre's house, and I kid you not, at 45 % he still hasn't gotten around to buy that friggin' door!
Ren will order a door today, while Cole heads over to the Santa Fe Opera for sound check.
Yet in between nothing overly interesting happened. They met at the hotel, had a "date", some blah blah blah, had sex a few times, and there were some chats with other secondary characters. Very compelling. Not.
The sex wasn't really my cup of tea either.
Anyway, another book has bitten the dust. I decided to do a re-read of a fabulous story to get back in my happy zone.
There goes my money…let's throw it out of the window, shall we? No worries, I'll get it back. After all, Amazon has such a great return policy.
Honestly, I have paid eight euro for books in the past and I haven’t felt indignant about it at all. But there are a couple nice distinctions: the authors are renowned and their writing skills are excellent. Simply put, they are among my favorites. Thus, I will gladly spend more money for a book that will meet my expectations. Forever Man, however, is
an outrageously overpriced debut novel.
Considering that steep price, I would have expected to read a masterpiece. It is very unfortunate that, in my book, Forever Man failed to deliver.
First off I'd like to advise you to read my first spoiler because for many readers this will be a deal breaker. Ren and Cole
I almost blew a gasket when I read this:
This thought process is ridiculously stupid and absurd. Even more so considering that Ren
Told in first person present tense, I know it's ok to alternate between different POVs, between present tense and past tense. And even though this is a very subjective matter and I'm usually comfortable reading first person present tense, this time around it did not work out for me. Something felt off but, mainly, I felt thrown out of the story several times which I found very annoying.
Another issue of mine was the lack of a really engaging plot. Somewhere along the way my interest petered out and I ended up bored. To make matters worse, it was also way too sugary sweet for my liking. I mean I felt a couple cheesy vibes right from the get-go but after my update at 37 % it took a very sharp and painful turn into Sapsville. It made my teeth hurt.
When I read this I felt slightly nauseated and was like "Uggggghhhhh…how dare he?" It's also very cheesy.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
For once, I completely agree!
They smile knowingly when Cole offers to trade plates with Ren so Ren can have more chicken and Cole can have more pasta. And when Cole starts to squirm in his seat, the proximity to Ren too much to handle without kissing him, they rightly assume that the two lovers will soon make their excuses, express their thanks and slip out before dessert.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
No comment.
Suddenly he's crying again, his tears silent, warm and salty as they slide down his cheeks in single file, wetting Ren's shoulder. He hears the song, his song, his song for Ren, and remembers all of it. Every hopeful thought. Every wish. Every disappointed sigh.
Reading Forever Man reminded me once again why I do love to read m-m. Because I love my men to be men and when I get a chance to read about two guys then all the better. While reading a story I don't want to deal with a sobbing pussy (aka Ren). Eek. On the one hand, I like men to show their vulnerable side but on the other hand, I want them to be...
Strong
Loyal
Reliable
Mature
Honest
Direct
Decisive
Protective
Integer
What irritated me also were all their (annoying) inner ramblings and Ren's deed at 34 % was so incredibly dumb I had to roll my eyes. It must have been a tribute to a B-movie. *headdesk*
Here are a few examples for your perusal:
Will I always take it? Will I always reach for his hand, wrap it up in my own, hold it tightly, again and again? Will I always have the chance to hold it and never let go?
Let me watch you fall apart. Let me take you there, out of time, to that place where you have nothing and everything and all you see is me, all you smell is me, all you know is me, and I am yours. Let me find you there, giving in to me, over and over and over again, until all that we have left is each other and this, this, this.
Ok. They have been chickenshit for fourteen very long years and then out of the blue, while they rip each other's clothes off and they can't keep their hands off each other's
In the beginning of the story Ren wanted to buy a door for Deidre's house, and I kid you not, at 45 % he still hasn't gotten around to buy that friggin' door!
Ren will order a door today, while Cole heads over to the Santa Fe Opera for sound check.
Yet in between nothing overly interesting happened. They met at the hotel, had a "date", some blah blah blah, had sex a few times, and there were some chats with other secondary characters. Very compelling. Not.
The sex wasn't really my cup of tea either.
Anyway, another book has bitten the dust. I decided to do a re-read of a fabulous story to get back in my happy zone.
August 24, 2014
I'm giving this book 5 stars. The whole 5 stars. For a few, but primarily one reason. It's what this author gets right.
Unrequited love. The one that got away love. The love that shaped you, scarred you, burned you, twisted you, and guided your life in the direction it went love. The excitement. Anticipation. Butterflies. The feeling in your chest caused by simply hearing that person's name. The way your heart soars at a random text message. The events that are tattooed on your heart that no other person blinked an eye at, but you can play them like a movie in your head. The conflict within. The burden of carrying on and living without a whole heart. The times you questioned yourself. The questions you want answered. Why? Just tell me why? What happens when you live your life and make it the best life you can when you think it can never be the life you want, and what happens when the life you want is suddenly there for you to grab if you only have the courage to take it. The consequences if you do. The "what ifs" if you don't.
Don't get me wrong. This book won't be for everyone. This book isn't a miracle literary masterpiece. There are slow parts. But the way the author captured the feelings of the situation in my opinion was pretty damned brilliant. If cheating is a trigger for you, then this might not be a book for you. Cheating is normally a no-go for me, but I was okay with it here. Shockingly okay. I understood.
Unrequited love. The one that got away love. The love that shaped you, scarred you, burned you, twisted you, and guided your life in the direction it went love. The excitement. Anticipation. Butterflies. The feeling in your chest caused by simply hearing that person's name. The way your heart soars at a random text message. The events that are tattooed on your heart that no other person blinked an eye at, but you can play them like a movie in your head. The conflict within. The burden of carrying on and living without a whole heart. The times you questioned yourself. The questions you want answered. Why? Just tell me why? What happens when you live your life and make it the best life you can when you think it can never be the life you want, and what happens when the life you want is suddenly there for you to grab if you only have the courage to take it. The consequences if you do. The "what ifs" if you don't.
Don't get me wrong. This book won't be for everyone. This book isn't a miracle literary masterpiece. There are slow parts. But the way the author captured the feelings of the situation in my opinion was pretty damned brilliant. If cheating is a trigger for you, then this might not be a book for you. Cheating is normally a no-go for me, but I was okay with it here. Shockingly okay. I understood.
August 20, 2014
Whoever said you can't combine steamy interludes with deep emotions hasn't yet read Forever Man and its heartwarming tale of missed opportunities. Readers are put through the emotional wringer just as much as the main characters watching their lives devolve into the mundane, settling for others when it's only in each other's arms that they are truly alive.
Ever since Catholic school Cole and Ren have had a connection, been each other's support, but for various reasons never fully committed. Fate constantly threw roadblocks in their way and kept them apart to where only friendship remained, but it's a friendship that's deep-seated and immensely important to both of them and it's something they don't want to jeopardize. Given the opportunity of a lifetime away from their significant others they finally indulge in their life-long fantasies with the clock ticking until they return to their ordinary lives. They indulge in steamy encounters and heartfelt truths that will either bind them together permanently or drive a wedge between them forever.
Cole is a funny and charming guy who knows he's not with the man he should be with. He knows he's settling but scared to ruin what Ren and he already have. Ren too feels as if he's adrift. His partner doesn't excite him and things have grown too comfortable. Being with Cole is exhilarating with chronic sexual tension that makes him feel alive. Only when they decide to give in to their sexual frustration do you sense a weight's been lifted off them. Their scenes together crackle with sensuality and energy and their banter brought a smile to my face. Their time together isn't without guilt though as the men they've left behind are clueless as to the sexual indulgences between Cole and Ren and the author doesn't ignore this issue. It's dealt with in a believable way that fully immerses readers in their journey to acceptance of what they truly want and need. Throw in numerous steamy interludes and readers are left parched and with their stomach in knots hoping for them to finally commit and live the life they were meant to. The secondary characters are equally strong and say what Cole and Ren have always thought, thus forcing them to finally embrace the truth of their connection in this m/m story that is both nostalgically heartwarming and heartbreaking. Readers will be pulled along in their rocky journey to happiness and fulfillment in this richly rewarding story set on the outskirts of the music world. This may have been my first book by this author but it definitely won't be the last!
Ever since Catholic school Cole and Ren have had a connection, been each other's support, but for various reasons never fully committed. Fate constantly threw roadblocks in their way and kept them apart to where only friendship remained, but it's a friendship that's deep-seated and immensely important to both of them and it's something they don't want to jeopardize. Given the opportunity of a lifetime away from their significant others they finally indulge in their life-long fantasies with the clock ticking until they return to their ordinary lives. They indulge in steamy encounters and heartfelt truths that will either bind them together permanently or drive a wedge between them forever.
Cole is a funny and charming guy who knows he's not with the man he should be with. He knows he's settling but scared to ruin what Ren and he already have. Ren too feels as if he's adrift. His partner doesn't excite him and things have grown too comfortable. Being with Cole is exhilarating with chronic sexual tension that makes him feel alive. Only when they decide to give in to their sexual frustration do you sense a weight's been lifted off them. Their scenes together crackle with sensuality and energy and their banter brought a smile to my face. Their time together isn't without guilt though as the men they've left behind are clueless as to the sexual indulgences between Cole and Ren and the author doesn't ignore this issue. It's dealt with in a believable way that fully immerses readers in their journey to acceptance of what they truly want and need. Throw in numerous steamy interludes and readers are left parched and with their stomach in knots hoping for them to finally commit and live the life they were meant to. The secondary characters are equally strong and say what Cole and Ren have always thought, thus forcing them to finally embrace the truth of their connection in this m/m story that is both nostalgically heartwarming and heartbreaking. Readers will be pulled along in their rocky journey to happiness and fulfillment in this richly rewarding story set on the outskirts of the music world. This may have been my first book by this author but it definitely won't be the last!
August 22, 2014
I cannot recommend Forever Man highly enough!
This story is really two love stories interwoven to create one unforgettable tale. Ren Warner is an interior designer relegated to the desert of Santa Fe to decorate the home of a Manhattan socialite. Cole McKnight is a record producer for the international superstar, Alegra, in town to record her latest soon-to-be smash album. Old friends for more than a decade, Ren and Cole run into one another in a Santa Fe hotel bar by chance (or is it fate?) and come face-to-face with a 14 year flirtation that may finally have reached its boiling point. Both carry with them obligations and commitments - to other people, different continents – so will this magical time in this magical city be just a brief moment, or will it represent the moment that changed everything? The community of friends and strangers that they meet in Santa Fe change their lives and ours as readers. The love between Ren and Cole, is powerful; the longing that they feel for all that might have been is palpable and the sense that their union was inevitable pervades the story.
The story is also a love letter to the city of Santa Fe. The imagery of the landscape, local customs and rituals, and the inclusion of actual Santa Fe locales make this book part romantic novel, part travelogue. It has very much instilled in this reader a deep desire to visit Ren and Cole’s Santa Fe!
This is a story you will not soon forget.
This story is really two love stories interwoven to create one unforgettable tale. Ren Warner is an interior designer relegated to the desert of Santa Fe to decorate the home of a Manhattan socialite. Cole McKnight is a record producer for the international superstar, Alegra, in town to record her latest soon-to-be smash album. Old friends for more than a decade, Ren and Cole run into one another in a Santa Fe hotel bar by chance (or is it fate?) and come face-to-face with a 14 year flirtation that may finally have reached its boiling point. Both carry with them obligations and commitments - to other people, different continents – so will this magical time in this magical city be just a brief moment, or will it represent the moment that changed everything? The community of friends and strangers that they meet in Santa Fe change their lives and ours as readers. The love between Ren and Cole, is powerful; the longing that they feel for all that might have been is palpable and the sense that their union was inevitable pervades the story.
The story is also a love letter to the city of Santa Fe. The imagery of the landscape, local customs and rituals, and the inclusion of actual Santa Fe locales make this book part romantic novel, part travelogue. It has very much instilled in this reader a deep desire to visit Ren and Cole’s Santa Fe!
This is a story you will not soon forget.
September 28, 2014
I've taken a while to write something about Forever Man. I shouldn't have.
This is a beautiful story, and exceptionally well told. The characters are vivid, and achingly believable. And the cast of supporting characters adds color and meaning to this world. This is not your run-of-the-mill romance novel.
I've seen a few people post reviews of this book that were disappointed, either because the plot involves infidelity or because it isn't a wham-bam-thank-you-man romp. Personally, I think that the latter speaks to this book's quality. If you can't get past infidelity in your romance plots—and I can understand why that's a problem for some people—then Forever Man may not be for you.
But if you're looking for a well-written romance, with characters that you want to welcome into your life, then I couldn't recommend Forever Man more.
This is a beautiful story, and exceptionally well told. The characters are vivid, and achingly believable. And the cast of supporting characters adds color and meaning to this world. This is not your run-of-the-mill romance novel.
I've seen a few people post reviews of this book that were disappointed, either because the plot involves infidelity or because it isn't a wham-bam-thank-you-man romp. Personally, I think that the latter speaks to this book's quality. If you can't get past infidelity in your romance plots—and I can understand why that's a problem for some people—then Forever Man may not be for you.
But if you're looking for a well-written romance, with characters that you want to welcome into your life, then I couldn't recommend Forever Man more.
August 19, 2014
The writing was very good and the character development was first rate. I understand how some reviewers liken the love story to Casablanca, but as I was reading this book I kept thinking of Graham Greene's "The End of the Affair". Some parts were very heartbreaking and I thought I would be unable to read the book to the end. I am glad I did. This was a terrific book.
August 2, 2014
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Forever Man a few week ago, and am thankful that I finally had time to dive into this debut novel by A.J. DeWall this past week. This was my first introduction to gay romance fiction, and I was excited to read A.J.’s story.
Having already been very familiar with an earlier incarnation of this story, I was curious to see what kinds of changes there would be, and especially what my own reaction would be to reading this new version.
Without giving plot points away, I have to say that I was just as swept up in this story as I had been in its earlier incarnation. As a reader, I was immediately drawn to the two main characters Ren Warner and Cole McKnight, their individual backstories, and their shared history. Moreover, A.J. descriptive writing really highlights the chemistry and sexual tension between Ren and Cole. Both of the characters are relatable, and I experienced the roller coaster of emotions while rooting for them.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the prominence of the third main character of this story: the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Having lived in New Mexico for a time when I was younger, A.J. ‘s descriptive style of Santa Fe instantly transported me back to the city and made me nostalgic about my time there. You can tell that Santa Fe is a special place for her by the attention to detail when she writes about the various places in the city. It was another key element to me getting swept up in the story.
Forever Manis a strong debut novel for A.J. and I’m excited to read her future work. Highly recommended. Well done, A.J.
Having already been very familiar with an earlier incarnation of this story, I was curious to see what kinds of changes there would be, and especially what my own reaction would be to reading this new version.
Without giving plot points away, I have to say that I was just as swept up in this story as I had been in its earlier incarnation. As a reader, I was immediately drawn to the two main characters Ren Warner and Cole McKnight, their individual backstories, and their shared history. Moreover, A.J. descriptive writing really highlights the chemistry and sexual tension between Ren and Cole. Both of the characters are relatable, and I experienced the roller coaster of emotions while rooting for them.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the prominence of the third main character of this story: the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Having lived in New Mexico for a time when I was younger, A.J. ‘s descriptive style of Santa Fe instantly transported me back to the city and made me nostalgic about my time there. You can tell that Santa Fe is a special place for her by the attention to detail when she writes about the various places in the city. It was another key element to me getting swept up in the story.
Forever Manis a strong debut novel for A.J. and I’m excited to read her future work. Highly recommended. Well done, A.J.
August 7, 2014
I cannot recommend this book more highly. It was exceptionally written -- there is an intense building to this story that took me on a journey. The sex is incredibly hot, but even better, functions as a force in this story that layers so much into Ren and Cole's passion. This story is at turns heartbreaking, aching, sexy, incredibly compassionate and loving. DeWall did an remarkable job making me believe in their fated love and the struggle they took to get where they end up; the longing of lost chances, and the inevitability and desperate progression of their relationship. This is a book I read insatiably, and when it ended, I actually went back and started it again.
September 2, 2014
This book has vaulted onto my all time favorite reads! It just wormed its way into my heart and will certainly remain there. Can't wait to read whatever A.J next gifts us with.
December 30, 2015
I need to step back a bit because I am overwhelmed. Completely and utterly overwhelmed. Reading Forever Man has been a spiritual journey for me, an out-of-this-world experience. More than my heart and mind, my soul has been touched. I've only come across two other authors today who has the same gift -- Brad Boney and J.F. Smith. And now A.J. DeWall. This was an epic story. Beautifully written. Lyrical and dazzling. It was apparent by the way it heightened my emotions all throughout: angered me, moved me, and made me hope and cry.
Soul-love. Ren and Cole are just beautiful. I was hypnotized by the story buildup. Their past has been very nostalgic; their future, for a moment, looking bleak. But their present was just magical. The way their friendship bloomed was scorching and so intense. Like waves that just go on and on without end, submerging you deep. I was deeply enthralled. And while I loved the sweet conversations, their bittersweet moments, the never ending dance that both men were good at doing, the memory when Ren asked Cole to "walk him home" blew me away and it became my favorite. God, it was sooo good. Please write more A.J. DeWall. Please, oh please.
August 20, 2014
What a great love story! The novel is full of introspection, mostly about what love is and what is worth giving up to have it. Also worthy of note is how much of a vivid sense of place this novel draws for the reader, in the New Mexico desert. The characters leap off the page, too. The action starts slowly and cautiously, but by the end, builds up into a whirlwind of tension so much that I honestly could not put the book down.
July 9, 2015
This will be a tough one for many people to read because the entire book has cheating. And no, that's not a spoiler, it's the whole story! I don't particularly love that trope myself but for some reason it this book it didn't bother me as much. Maybe because they felt like crap about it? I will say this book could have been edited down about 100 pages. It was like a "day in the life of" which I didn't feel was necessary in the growth of their relationship. We learned a lot about New Mexico though. There's a ton of sex in here and that could have been edited down also. It was smokin' hot but loses some effectiveness when it's constant. Gosh, sounds like I didn't like it when in fact I liked it a whole lot. Favorite scene was in the bar...the dance. Oh man! That's was just perfect!! I felt for these two and wanted them to make it so bad. Read it if you can stand the cheating aspect, it's worth it!
August 9, 2014
This is a story that will make you dread having to put it down and finishing it all at once. I never wanted this story to end. It was so well written and, as an avid reader who can usually predict how the story will play out, the author constantly proved me wrong and kept me engaged!
December 11, 2014
Fantastic world-building and super emotional--you're right there with the protagonists.
February 24, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
There is so much I have to say about this book and I’m not even sure where to start. I picked up this book because, first, the cover caught my eye. I know, you’re all shocked. But add in friends-to-lovers and second chances and really, I didn’t have a choice but to read it. Forever Man is a sexy, angsty, powerful story of two friends who fell in love early on in their friendship, but didn’t know how to say it, didn’t know how to make that first move and not lose what they had, so they grew apart. And then fate or destiny or whatever brought them back together in the most unlikely of places. I’m telling you, this story had me engrossed most of the time. It’s both beautiful and painful. It was a war of emotion from the very beginning that lasted until the end, but it was completely worth it.
I’ll be the first to tell you that cheating isn’t high up on my scale of things to read. And to be honest, I don’t read a lot of it, but one, in fiction I can sort of overlook it, and two, these guys were so obviously meant to be together, I couldn’t help but cheer them on. I’m going to start with Cole, because while, I adore both guys, he is my favorite. I found Cole to be the more passionate of the two. He was gung-ho from the very beginning, and even when he felt bad about deceiving the man he left at home, he went full force for what he wanted and never really looked back. But when Cole took time to really think things through, he did the right thing for the right reasons. So even though, I’m not a respecter of cheating, I respected his honesty and boldness to fight for what he wanted. Ren is a different story. I liked Ren—a lot. But I think he wanted a little bit of both worlds. I think, even though he didn’t admit it, he liked the thrill of cheating, of straddling the fence and having both men on a leash. In his heart, he knew what he wanted, but he also knew he had feelings for Paul and he was afraid to let the political climate and Page Six rumors destroy what he’d built. I hate to say it, but for a while, he was a bit of a coward. Really for most of the book, until he decided to do what was right for him and forget what everybody else thought. I liked the guys together the most. When they were together is when I could practically see “Meant To Be” flashing above their heads. They completed one another. When Ren panics, Cole’s presence soothes him. When Cole acts before thinking, Ren is there to be the rational, grounding force. They are quite perfect together, if very imperfect men.
Read Crissy’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
There is so much I have to say about this book and I’m not even sure where to start. I picked up this book because, first, the cover caught my eye. I know, you’re all shocked. But add in friends-to-lovers and second chances and really, I didn’t have a choice but to read it. Forever Man is a sexy, angsty, powerful story of two friends who fell in love early on in their friendship, but didn’t know how to say it, didn’t know how to make that first move and not lose what they had, so they grew apart. And then fate or destiny or whatever brought them back together in the most unlikely of places. I’m telling you, this story had me engrossed most of the time. It’s both beautiful and painful. It was a war of emotion from the very beginning that lasted until the end, but it was completely worth it.
I’ll be the first to tell you that cheating isn’t high up on my scale of things to read. And to be honest, I don’t read a lot of it, but one, in fiction I can sort of overlook it, and two, these guys were so obviously meant to be together, I couldn’t help but cheer them on. I’m going to start with Cole, because while, I adore both guys, he is my favorite. I found Cole to be the more passionate of the two. He was gung-ho from the very beginning, and even when he felt bad about deceiving the man he left at home, he went full force for what he wanted and never really looked back. But when Cole took time to really think things through, he did the right thing for the right reasons. So even though, I’m not a respecter of cheating, I respected his honesty and boldness to fight for what he wanted. Ren is a different story. I liked Ren—a lot. But I think he wanted a little bit of both worlds. I think, even though he didn’t admit it, he liked the thrill of cheating, of straddling the fence and having both men on a leash. In his heart, he knew what he wanted, but he also knew he had feelings for Paul and he was afraid to let the political climate and Page Six rumors destroy what he’d built. I hate to say it, but for a while, he was a bit of a coward. Really for most of the book, until he decided to do what was right for him and forget what everybody else thought. I liked the guys together the most. When they were together is when I could practically see “Meant To Be” flashing above their heads. They completed one another. When Ren panics, Cole’s presence soothes him. When Cole acts before thinking, Ren is there to be the rational, grounding force. They are quite perfect together, if very imperfect men.
Read Crissy’s review in its entirety here.
November 26, 2014
I don't mind cheating. What I do mind is poetic sappiness overload. And the crying. I love guy in tears as much as the next girl, but when it's done over, and over, and over again I start to wonder if I'm reading about a pre-teen or a grown man (or men, in this case).
I would have liked it a lot better had this story been tighter. There was a plot buried in all that nonsensical feelz, I'm sure, but I was cursed with a cynic nature, so it went over my head.
I would have liked it a lot better had this story been tighter. There was a plot buried in all that nonsensical feelz, I'm sure, but I was cursed with a cynic nature, so it went over my head.
December 4, 2014
Characters that read more as human than fiction. Witty, sparkling, colourful dialogue. Scenes that had me in tears one moment and doubled over with laughter the next. A supporting cast with whom I fell in love.
A book that challenged my views on love, fidelity, redemption, and ultimately changed my life.
If I could give it eleven stars out of five, I would.
A book that challenged my views on love, fidelity, redemption, and ultimately changed my life.
If I could give it eleven stars out of five, I would.
December 26, 2015
4.5 Stars
Maybe more!
Maybe more!
January 6, 2015
Have you ever read a book so vividly written that you had to put it down for a while in order not to be overwhelmed by it?
Forever Man was that book for me. The way A.J. DeWall wrote the myriad of emotions swirling in the kind-of-but-not-really whirlwind romance between Cole and Ren -- and sometimes even just the way she described Santa Fe and all its charms -- bowled me over enough that I had to stop reading several times and come back to the book later, though I didn't really want to put it down. It wrecked me in all the best ways.
Another great thing about this novel is the vibrant secondary characters. Though those can sometimes fall by the wayside in romance novels, the side characters in Forever Man all have stories of their own, of which we only get to see glimpses. It's a brilliant tease, giving us just enough information about them to make us crave more. June, Deirdre, Antonio -- hell, even Paul, because what on earth caused him to develop into that kind of person? -- I want to know their backstories.
This book has it all -- passion, anguish, scandal, and so much more -- and I hope it is the first of many to come from DeWall.
Forever Man was that book for me. The way A.J. DeWall wrote the myriad of emotions swirling in the kind-of-but-not-really whirlwind romance between Cole and Ren -- and sometimes even just the way she described Santa Fe and all its charms -- bowled me over enough that I had to stop reading several times and come back to the book later, though I didn't really want to put it down. It wrecked me in all the best ways.
Another great thing about this novel is the vibrant secondary characters. Though those can sometimes fall by the wayside in romance novels, the side characters in Forever Man all have stories of their own, of which we only get to see glimpses. It's a brilliant tease, giving us just enough information about them to make us crave more. June, Deirdre, Antonio -- hell, even Paul, because what on earth caused him to develop into that kind of person? -- I want to know their backstories.
This book has it all -- passion, anguish, scandal, and so much more -- and I hope it is the first of many to come from DeWall.
September 13, 2014
3.5 stars
I'm a complete sucker for seconds chances stories, so I was excited to see this new book (plus musicians!). The author did great in letting the reader completely FEEL the love that Colt and Ren had for each other, it was so tangible and that was translated into ooeey gooey sweetness between the two (yes, sugar overload, but in a good way).
I did feel that the pacing fell off in the middle of the book because there was some repetition, wasn't as fresh anymore. And I did feel that there was often too much sense of place with Santa Fe (tour guide moments), although it did bring Santa Fe charm to the story completely. Beware if you have editing OCD, lots of spelling, grammar...doesn't bother me (other than this is an expensive book), but I know lots of people take issue.
The heart of the story is being true to who you are and pursuing that even if it's difficult. Overall a good read, I'll definitely try something else from this author.
I'm a complete sucker for seconds chances stories, so I was excited to see this new book (plus musicians!). The author did great in letting the reader completely FEEL the love that Colt and Ren had for each other, it was so tangible and that was translated into ooeey gooey sweetness between the two (yes, sugar overload, but in a good way).
I did feel that the pacing fell off in the middle of the book because there was some repetition, wasn't as fresh anymore. And I did feel that there was often too much sense of place with Santa Fe (tour guide moments), although it did bring Santa Fe charm to the story completely. Beware if you have editing OCD, lots of spelling, grammar...doesn't bother me (other than this is an expensive book), but I know lots of people take issue.
The heart of the story is being true to who you are and pursuing that even if it's difficult. Overall a good read, I'll definitely try something else from this author.
October 7, 2015
This story hurt so good. Cole and Ren are so clearly perfect for each other, and so obviously want to be together, and their reluctance to admit that (to themselves, to each other) was agonizing. I've now developed a serious desire to visit New Mexico, and an incurable lust for margaritas. A great book about love and longing and the complicated way we can sabotage the seemingly most simple relationships.
September 30, 2014
4.5 stars ***** it was a very good read... everybody can find something from themselves in this book... you will fell guilty because you will never regret anything too... you fell guilty for sure... °_o
February 4, 2016
“It’s supposed to turn your life upside down. That’s the point,” one of the characters from Forever Man says of love.
When Ren is miserably stuck in Santa Fe, working on the home of one of his most annoying interior design clients, he runs into his best friend from his youth, Cole, who happens to be in town recording a song with Alegra, the world-famous singer for whom Cole produces and sometimes plays the guitar. After that first meeting, they discover how right that statement is when both of their lives are tumbled into chaos.
There had always been unacknowledged feelings between Cole and Ren in their youth, their past steeped in pining. When they meet up again, those feelings still murmur under the surface of their friendship, even though Cole has a boyfriend and Ren has a very well-known fiancé who’s been very publicly instrumental in the fight for federal marriage rights for gay couples in the U.S. So, when the pent-up gets un-pent and the apple cart gets upset by the acknowledgment of old feelings, those apples go everywhere and make a big mess.
What happens when you finally get what you want, but you don’t get it when you want it? When getting what you want means upsetting everything you’ve managed to find in the meantime?
"Do you need something?" It’s the refrain that Ren hears throughout the novel, the question that aches in the back of his head even as he tries to remain true to the promises he’s already made to so many people.
Real love is pretty inconvenient and rarely not messy. As it should be, it’s pretty painful, inconvenient and messy in this novel, but it’s also fulfilling and joyous and really satisfying to read about. The backdrop of Santa Fe isn’t mystified, but allowed to be strange and beautiful and to pull lovers together and apart. The place itself is a character in this story.
Aside from the concerns of the two men at this novel’s center, the story is generous enough to pull in the stories of Deidre (Ren’s brash, sometimes selfish but still redeemable design client), Paul (Ren’s politically-driven fiancé), Antonio (Ren’s soulful local assistant), Sarah (Antonio's wife, who works with homeless LGBTQ youth at Alex Marin House), the kids of Alex Marin House (young and homeless and queer and looking for signs of their own reality), and even the famous singer Alegra (who’s a bit saucy and intensely invested in Cole’s happiness).
I really got invested in these people—even Deidre got my empathy on occasion—and was so wound into the story that I read the book almost straight through in one sitting (okay, two). The mystery here isn’t whether Cole and Ren belong together, but how they’ll get there.
All of the characters in the novel have a stake in the reunion of Ren and Cole, which makes this a story about so much more than simply loving someone, or throwing down for some good sex (and oh, my, I may have had several premature hot flashes reading parts of this book!). There is so much to upset here when lives go sideways. The entire marriage-equality community seems to need Ren and his fiancé Paul to remain picture-perfect; the homeless queer kids of Alex Marin House look up to Cole and Ren; Alegra wants to be a fairy godmother to Cole; Deidre is jaded but looking for a way not to be, and to be a friend to Ren. Well-intentioned or not, innocent or not, every move one character makes impacts other characters in a deep way, as if everyone is tied together by invisible thread. In part, this is the concern of this story: how all our lives, every action, every feeling, makes waves of impact on the world and the people around us. None of us is ever alone, and everything matters.
When Ren is miserably stuck in Santa Fe, working on the home of one of his most annoying interior design clients, he runs into his best friend from his youth, Cole, who happens to be in town recording a song with Alegra, the world-famous singer for whom Cole produces and sometimes plays the guitar. After that first meeting, they discover how right that statement is when both of their lives are tumbled into chaos.
There had always been unacknowledged feelings between Cole and Ren in their youth, their past steeped in pining. When they meet up again, those feelings still murmur under the surface of their friendship, even though Cole has a boyfriend and Ren has a very well-known fiancé who’s been very publicly instrumental in the fight for federal marriage rights for gay couples in the U.S. So, when the pent-up gets un-pent and the apple cart gets upset by the acknowledgment of old feelings, those apples go everywhere and make a big mess.
What happens when you finally get what you want, but you don’t get it when you want it? When getting what you want means upsetting everything you’ve managed to find in the meantime?
"Do you need something?" It’s the refrain that Ren hears throughout the novel, the question that aches in the back of his head even as he tries to remain true to the promises he’s already made to so many people.
Real love is pretty inconvenient and rarely not messy. As it should be, it’s pretty painful, inconvenient and messy in this novel, but it’s also fulfilling and joyous and really satisfying to read about. The backdrop of Santa Fe isn’t mystified, but allowed to be strange and beautiful and to pull lovers together and apart. The place itself is a character in this story.
Aside from the concerns of the two men at this novel’s center, the story is generous enough to pull in the stories of Deidre (Ren’s brash, sometimes selfish but still redeemable design client), Paul (Ren’s politically-driven fiancé), Antonio (Ren’s soulful local assistant), Sarah (Antonio's wife, who works with homeless LGBTQ youth at Alex Marin House), the kids of Alex Marin House (young and homeless and queer and looking for signs of their own reality), and even the famous singer Alegra (who’s a bit saucy and intensely invested in Cole’s happiness).
I really got invested in these people—even Deidre got my empathy on occasion—and was so wound into the story that I read the book almost straight through in one sitting (okay, two). The mystery here isn’t whether Cole and Ren belong together, but how they’ll get there.
All of the characters in the novel have a stake in the reunion of Ren and Cole, which makes this a story about so much more than simply loving someone, or throwing down for some good sex (and oh, my, I may have had several premature hot flashes reading parts of this book!). There is so much to upset here when lives go sideways. The entire marriage-equality community seems to need Ren and his fiancé Paul to remain picture-perfect; the homeless queer kids of Alex Marin House look up to Cole and Ren; Alegra wants to be a fairy godmother to Cole; Deidre is jaded but looking for a way not to be, and to be a friend to Ren. Well-intentioned or not, innocent or not, every move one character makes impacts other characters in a deep way, as if everyone is tied together by invisible thread. In part, this is the concern of this story: how all our lives, every action, every feeling, makes waves of impact on the world and the people around us. None of us is ever alone, and everything matters.
May 11, 2015
The Blogger Girls
I really, really, really loved this story. Ren and Cole are now two of my all-time favorite characters, and I would love to see more of them in future books. Their relationship is many years in the making, but it takes over fourteen years for them to finally get it right. This book begins in their fourteenth year, and we are privy to their past, but there isn’t long and drawn out flashbacks, just peeks into what made them into the men they are today, thank goodness. Mainly, just the two of them dealing with regrets for not speaking up sooner about their feelings for each other. Definitely a best friends to lovers, but so much more. So many emotions, so much regret, and so much burning hot sex that I was concerned that my Nook would explode.
Ren and Cole are each amazing in their own right, but I can’t seem to separate them in my head. I wanted to write a little bit about each one, but to me, they are a matching set, a pair that belongs always together, and I won’t separate them because they spent so much time separated on their own.
Many people will have major issues with the perceived infidelity in this story, but I didn’t, not at all. These two guys were destined to be together, and even though I felt bad for their current significant others, I still loved the way the story played out. People get hurt in relationships. People settle when they think their one true love doesn’t return their feelings. And people move on. Ren and Cole were always meant to be together and, unfortunately, people got hurt, but in the end, these two have what we all dream of, and who am I to judge them for that? I loved it and will definitely be looking for more from this author.
I really, really, really loved this story. Ren and Cole are now two of my all-time favorite characters, and I would love to see more of them in future books. Their relationship is many years in the making, but it takes over fourteen years for them to finally get it right. This book begins in their fourteenth year, and we are privy to their past, but there isn’t long and drawn out flashbacks, just peeks into what made them into the men they are today, thank goodness. Mainly, just the two of them dealing with regrets for not speaking up sooner about their feelings for each other. Definitely a best friends to lovers, but so much more. So many emotions, so much regret, and so much burning hot sex that I was concerned that my Nook would explode.
Ren and Cole are each amazing in their own right, but I can’t seem to separate them in my head. I wanted to write a little bit about each one, but to me, they are a matching set, a pair that belongs always together, and I won’t separate them because they spent so much time separated on their own.
Many people will have major issues with the perceived infidelity in this story, but I didn’t, not at all. These two guys were destined to be together, and even though I felt bad for their current significant others, I still loved the way the story played out. People get hurt in relationships. People settle when they think their one true love doesn’t return their feelings. And people move on. Ren and Cole were always meant to be together and, unfortunately, people got hurt, but in the end, these two have what we all dream of, and who am I to judge them for that? I loved it and will definitely be looking for more from this author.
December 1, 2014
If you want to talk about taking the rough road towards love then Ren and Cole will be able to tell you all about it! A series of poor choices, missed opportunities and lack of communication have kept them apart for years. The deep connection and essential attraction they felt for each other is ignited years later by chance, but each must face the commitments they have already made in other areas of their lives before a second chance at love is even possible.
Forever Man is an angsty story full of passionate emotions, dramatic crossroads, love and betrayal. Even though Ren and Cole are grown men now, I was left with the sense that they never grew up emotionally and their choices are still influenced by the impulsiveness and lack of courage that kept them from connecting in their youth. Though generally well written, I found myself distracted by the sporadic pacing, which was an up and down of intense emotional scenes and slower sections of lengthy dialogue.
I had a difficult time connecting with the main characters, and was a little disappointed by the immature and selfish choices they made along the way, but if you're looking for a dramatic story with star-crossed lovers, lots of angst and sexy bedroom scenes... then this one is for you!
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews
Forever Man is an angsty story full of passionate emotions, dramatic crossroads, love and betrayal. Even though Ren and Cole are grown men now, I was left with the sense that they never grew up emotionally and their choices are still influenced by the impulsiveness and lack of courage that kept them from connecting in their youth. Though generally well written, I found myself distracted by the sporadic pacing, which was an up and down of intense emotional scenes and slower sections of lengthy dialogue.
I had a difficult time connecting with the main characters, and was a little disappointed by the immature and selfish choices they made along the way, but if you're looking for a dramatic story with star-crossed lovers, lots of angst and sexy bedroom scenes... then this one is for you!
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews
January 5, 2015
This is one of the most heart-stopping romances I have read, yet it is still delightfully full of fun. I recommend it highly.
Ren and Cole are old school friends with a startlingly believable connection. That connection tugged me in to their story straight away and it ripples brightly throughout. Their unexpected meet-up in Santa Fe, far away from the pull of their ordinary lives, sets up a beautiful love story.
The setting, and the emotional and physical connection between the men make for a dreamy and engaging read for a lot of the story. They're here in this far off place, the people around them are extraordinary, there's a lot of fun to be had. But their real lives are looming throughout, their decisions are sometimes poor, and when this little interlude comes to a necessary end they have to fight to build something real from something that seemed magical.
The author does something extraordinary here. Because it's hard to imagine a happy ending that will be true to all I hoped for them and to the real life damage they have caused. But because A.J. DeWall does not shy away from the struggle and the real human cost of choosing love, she creates something wonderful.
Ren and Cole are old school friends with a startlingly believable connection. That connection tugged me in to their story straight away and it ripples brightly throughout. Their unexpected meet-up in Santa Fe, far away from the pull of their ordinary lives, sets up a beautiful love story.
The setting, and the emotional and physical connection between the men make for a dreamy and engaging read for a lot of the story. They're here in this far off place, the people around them are extraordinary, there's a lot of fun to be had. But their real lives are looming throughout, their decisions are sometimes poor, and when this little interlude comes to a necessary end they have to fight to build something real from something that seemed magical.
The author does something extraordinary here. Because it's hard to imagine a happy ending that will be true to all I hoped for them and to the real life damage they have caused. But because A.J. DeWall does not shy away from the struggle and the real human cost of choosing love, she creates something wonderful.
March 3, 2015
4.5 stars! This was so good! The chemistry between Ren and Cole was so intense (like really intense) but I still found myself laughing over their names because they have unrelated connotations to me. But that was entirely just because I'm a weirdo. I thought the build was perfect, the motifs -- "Do you need something?" and the milagros -- were so well executed and I fell in love with them like they were their own characters practically. The supporting cast was fabulous, and the mature content was pretty damn fine. All in all, this was amazing! Half a star lost because personally I'm not very good with the affair story line. Ren and Cole's chemistry and love for each other was undeniable though, which made it a lot better for me, I just general squick at the idea of affairs, probably because I'm one of those people that are like "JUST TALK OUT YOUR ISSUES AND SOLVE THE PROBLEM BEFORE YOU DIVE IN YOU FOOLS." But I really enjoyed their romance, I really did. So good!
May 15, 2015
I just finished Forever Man - why did I wait so long to get into it?!? It was fantastic! The climactic scenes had me on the edge of my seat - wonderfully angsty, in an real way - with a loving HEA. I think I initially resisted the Santa Fe setting, but by the end I had fallen in love with that too. The people & the town were perfect for this study of renewal, reflection and reunited love. Love it! Wonderful job! Brava!!
January 6, 2015
I literally read this book in a day because I could not put it down. I was completely enthralled in these characters and their struggles and their journey. This book left me feeling like I needed a hundred more with these characters and their story.
November 27, 2014
Despite the cheating and wanting to shake/smack Ren a few times overall I really enjoyed this story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews