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Looking Back on Forever
Looking Back on Forever is a combined duet. Two books in one.
Part 1: Claire is the outcast of her school; shunned by her peers for her bigger than life dreams. The isolation doesn’t bother her, though, not when she knows she is working toward a bigger goal than her small-town existence. Noah is the quintessential hot new kid, choosing to live with his aunt and uncle while his parents traverse the world. He thinks himself a simple boy, wanting nothing more than to play his guitar and live a modest life. The girls all want him, the boys are all envious of him, but Noah has eyes only for Claire.
Part 2: Moving from Breckenridge, Colorado to New York City is Claire’s dream come true. She is one step closer to reaching her goal. However, it is Noah’s living nightmare. The home he wanted to come back to for so long is turning out to be his downfall. Someone is betrayed. Someone is abandoned. Both move on the best they can. One’s dreams are crushed. One gets the offer of a lifetime. Both are rocked by the truths left behind. Life never turns out the way you want. This is a contemporary romance story about first love and heartbreak, about shattered dreams, life’s surprises, and fate’s plans. This is a story about love and forgiveness.
*** This book is intended for a mature audience. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18. Contains strong language, violence, and sexual situations. All parties portrayed in sexual situations are over the age of 18. *** Word roughly 146,000
Part 1: Claire is the outcast of her school; shunned by her peers for her bigger than life dreams. The isolation doesn’t bother her, though, not when she knows she is working toward a bigger goal than her small-town existence. Noah is the quintessential hot new kid, choosing to live with his aunt and uncle while his parents traverse the world. He thinks himself a simple boy, wanting nothing more than to play his guitar and live a modest life. The girls all want him, the boys are all envious of him, but Noah has eyes only for Claire.
Part 2: Moving from Breckenridge, Colorado to New York City is Claire’s dream come true. She is one step closer to reaching her goal. However, it is Noah’s living nightmare. The home he wanted to come back to for so long is turning out to be his downfall. Someone is betrayed. Someone is abandoned. Both move on the best they can. One’s dreams are crushed. One gets the offer of a lifetime. Both are rocked by the truths left behind. Life never turns out the way you want. This is a contemporary romance story about first love and heartbreak, about shattered dreams, life’s surprises, and fate’s plans. This is a story about love and forgiveness.
*** This book is intended for a mature audience. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18. Contains strong language, violence, and sexual situations. All parties portrayed in sexual situations are over the age of 18. *** Word roughly 146,000
- GenresRomanceContemporary
Audible Audio
First published February 27, 2017
36 people are currently reading
701 people want to read
About the author
Kat Alexander
2 books100 followersLiterature is my passion. I like to challenge myself and grow in my writings. I have many unfinished books and some that have been published under a different name. Why I chose to do this is because of my writing growth and the differentiation in genre. I don't want my future books to be judged by the inexperience of my past writings. Though I love those books, they came out of nowhere and it's apparent in the writings they were a first draft from someone with no experience.
My passions include the arts--music, photography, writing, dance, painting, films, architecture, anything that is creation. There is not much I don't like; and if I don't like it, I at least appreciate the process that took place to create it. This is something incorporated in all my books. I've known so many talented people, and truly believe no one is without a talent. Everyone has something ingrained in them; just naturally gives them the ability to create new life in the form of art.
In my spare time, which is basically non-existent between my day job and writing, I enjoy being out in nature, traveling, spending time with family, and reading. I read everything, from contemporary to paranormal, from historical romance to erotica, from history to science. Learning is something very important to me. I really do learn something new every day, my brain storing so much useless to life-saving information. My brain, the sponge.
My passions include the arts--music, photography, writing, dance, painting, films, architecture, anything that is creation. There is not much I don't like; and if I don't like it, I at least appreciate the process that took place to create it. This is something incorporated in all my books. I've known so many talented people, and truly believe no one is without a talent. Everyone has something ingrained in them; just naturally gives them the ability to create new life in the form of art.
In my spare time, which is basically non-existent between my day job and writing, I enjoy being out in nature, traveling, spending time with family, and reading. I read everything, from contemporary to paranormal, from historical romance to erotica, from history to science. Learning is something very important to me. I really do learn something new every day, my brain storing so much useless to life-saving information. My brain, the sponge.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 19, 2017
‘Looking Back on Forever’ is a contemporary romance by American author, Kat Alexander. There is a fairly explicit scene in the prologue, however this comes as no surprise as the author warns there is: ‘strong language, violence and sexual situations,’ at the beginning of the book so if you’re easily offended, there is no excuse for reading any further.
We see the action from the perspectives of the two main characters, Claire and Noah. We watch as the dynamic between them evolves and they tiptoe around, each trying to gauge the feelings of the other. The structure of the book is straightforward with evenly distributed chapters and the story is written in the first person, the present tense and is emotion-focused.
The supporting cast is plentiful and arguably a little predictable, with jealousy and rivalry being the main areas explored, particularly in the first half of the book. However, these are young people journeying towards adulthood, so perhaps this is understandable. Other than the attraction between the main characters, I didn’t really find any solid secondary relationships to flesh out the personalities and they remained a little two dimensional. This was a shame because the author had done an extremely good job of getting inside the heads of both Claire and Noah.
This is a story of first love, loss and rediscovery but at 486 pages, I found it a rather drawn out. A jolly good edit would have curtailed the length, sharpened the story and taken nothing away from the plot.
This is a highly competitive genre and whilst the enigmatic title promised much, I felt the story needed some dramatic twists to elevate it to a higher level and make it stand out from the crowd. I do however, very much like the cover; the symbolism of the two bracelets entwined is simple but effective.
If you’re a fan of romance and are looking for an uncomplicated read, give this book a try. It is sensitively written and I think Kat Alexander show promise for the future. I award ‘Looking Back on Forever’ a respectable three stars.
Reviewed by Julie on www.whisperingstories.com
We see the action from the perspectives of the two main characters, Claire and Noah. We watch as the dynamic between them evolves and they tiptoe around, each trying to gauge the feelings of the other. The structure of the book is straightforward with evenly distributed chapters and the story is written in the first person, the present tense and is emotion-focused.
The supporting cast is plentiful and arguably a little predictable, with jealousy and rivalry being the main areas explored, particularly in the first half of the book. However, these are young people journeying towards adulthood, so perhaps this is understandable. Other than the attraction between the main characters, I didn’t really find any solid secondary relationships to flesh out the personalities and they remained a little two dimensional. This was a shame because the author had done an extremely good job of getting inside the heads of both Claire and Noah.
This is a story of first love, loss and rediscovery but at 486 pages, I found it a rather drawn out. A jolly good edit would have curtailed the length, sharpened the story and taken nothing away from the plot.
This is a highly competitive genre and whilst the enigmatic title promised much, I felt the story needed some dramatic twists to elevate it to a higher level and make it stand out from the crowd. I do however, very much like the cover; the symbolism of the two bracelets entwined is simple but effective.
If you’re a fan of romance and are looking for an uncomplicated read, give this book a try. It is sensitively written and I think Kat Alexander show promise for the future. I award ‘Looking Back on Forever’ a respectable three stars.
Reviewed by Julie on www.whisperingstories.com
May 8, 2024
Man I've hit the loser jackpot today! This was just awful. Hero became a man shore who did drugs, slept with tons of women and abandoned the heroine. He was a loser. She dated another man when the hero ghosted her. For three years. She loved him too. Not like the manho though. Yes he stopped and got clean after a while and supposedly there were no more random women. But I just didn't feel like this was a romantic story. It was effed up. Death of a friend happened and she was assaulted by a male best friend and the whole time it was just so depressing. But while its not my jam, obviously it fits for so many more readers and their five star vague reviews. I should have known better. The rating is simply my personal opinion of this storyline which I hated. The author writes well. I just can't like these type of stories and I wouldn't have read it if I had known. Oh well now I need to read something that will erase this train wreck from my brain. Nico, the child was very sweet. Poor kid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2019
I took a really long, long time to read this because I was going through cancer treatments and difficulty with my eyesight but mostly because I was enjoying it so much. I didn’t want it to end!
It was exactly the kind of story I needed. I really enjoy the way this author chose to tell the story. I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know I had jaw dropping moments. I swooned, I cried, I gasped, I truly felt so many emotions. I feel like I know these characters. Like they’re real people. I fell completely in love with Noah and Claire. I hope you do too. It’s just so good!
I highly recommend this one for sure.
Best contemporary I’ve read in a long time. Give it a shot.
It was exactly the kind of story I needed. I really enjoy the way this author chose to tell the story. I don’t want to spoil anything. Just know I had jaw dropping moments. I swooned, I cried, I gasped, I truly felt so many emotions. I feel like I know these characters. Like they’re real people. I fell completely in love with Noah and Claire. I hope you do too. It’s just so good!
I highly recommend this one for sure.
Best contemporary I’ve read in a long time. Give it a shot.
March 21, 2017
Typically, I write my review immediately upon finishing a book, but I am currently fighting a migraine from all the tears shed while reading Claire and Noah's story. Their story evoked a roller coaster of emotions in me: betrayal, hurt, sadness, happiness, love, and contentment if I were naming a few.
I have never rooted for two people to be together more than these two. You feel the connection and the power of their love from the instant they lay eyes on each other. It's so very obvious they are the true definition of soulmates and in a universe that constantly works against them they are destined to be together. It's almost as if you can see that their path together was written out before they even existed.
Claire, is the outcast of her school. The girls shun her because they secretly want to be her. She's beautiful and confident in her own skin even if in her own mind she doesn't think she is. She's accepted who she is and doesn't try to be anything she isn't. Unlike most of the student body.
Noah(insert big heart eyed emoji), is broody, mysterious, and sexy. He's the new guy in school so of course every girl wants to be with him. But he only has eyes for Claire. I felt sorry for Noah on more than one occasion because of some of the relationships in his life. His feelings of being a lone and his insecurity are feelings we all seem to have with in, at some point in our life or another. Music just happens to be his outlet. Yeah, he really has it all. Looks, musical talent, and broodiness!
Kat introduces so many wonderful characters in this story. The bonds these people share and the personal level in which you get to know them all you really grow to "adore" everyone of them. Even the antagonists, Troy and Chelsea. I love how she wrapped everything up into a pretty little package and allowed Claire to eventually be able to move on with everything in her life.
There are so many elements of this book that I want to discuss but I just can't for the risk of spoilers. This book will hold a special place in my heart for many years to come. This is no less than a 5 star book for me. If I could rate it more I would. It took me a few days to read this one because of its length but it's so much more than a story of two people meeting and falling in love. It takes you through the course of time. There was so much build up and anticipation. I really felt a deeply rooted connection to everyone in the book. I love that Kat took her time developing this story.
I recommend reading with a glass of wine and some tissues, but promise this one will become an instant favorite for many readers once they finish the last page. I am looking forward to see what else the author has in store for her readers.
I have never rooted for two people to be together more than these two. You feel the connection and the power of their love from the instant they lay eyes on each other. It's so very obvious they are the true definition of soulmates and in a universe that constantly works against them they are destined to be together. It's almost as if you can see that their path together was written out before they even existed.
Claire, is the outcast of her school. The girls shun her because they secretly want to be her. She's beautiful and confident in her own skin even if in her own mind she doesn't think she is. She's accepted who she is and doesn't try to be anything she isn't. Unlike most of the student body.
Noah(insert big heart eyed emoji), is broody, mysterious, and sexy. He's the new guy in school so of course every girl wants to be with him. But he only has eyes for Claire. I felt sorry for Noah on more than one occasion because of some of the relationships in his life. His feelings of being a lone and his insecurity are feelings we all seem to have with in, at some point in our life or another. Music just happens to be his outlet. Yeah, he really has it all. Looks, musical talent, and broodiness!
Kat introduces so many wonderful characters in this story. The bonds these people share and the personal level in which you get to know them all you really grow to "adore" everyone of them. Even the antagonists, Troy and Chelsea. I love how she wrapped everything up into a pretty little package and allowed Claire to eventually be able to move on with everything in her life.
There are so many elements of this book that I want to discuss but I just can't for the risk of spoilers. This book will hold a special place in my heart for many years to come. This is no less than a 5 star book for me. If I could rate it more I would. It took me a few days to read this one because of its length but it's so much more than a story of two people meeting and falling in love. It takes you through the course of time. There was so much build up and anticipation. I really felt a deeply rooted connection to everyone in the book. I love that Kat took her time developing this story.
I recommend reading with a glass of wine and some tissues, but promise this one will become an instant favorite for many readers once they finish the last page. I am looking forward to see what else the author has in store for her readers.
October 7, 2017
Looking back on Forever is the debut book from new author Kat Alexander. Usually I am not a fan of books set with the main characters at schooling age, but Kat had such a way of writing that I couldn’t pull myself away. I will admit that I didn’t like Noah much to begin with. He is written to be so much like a teenage boy that I just wanted to shake him so many times at the start. His thoughts and actions were so much like a teenager, that I am reminded why I find boys at that age so frustrating. But when he met Claire, and they both fell head over heels in love, I have to admit I warmed up to him a lot. Every time he told her that he adored her, I found myself adoring him.
This book was a roller-coaster ride, and when the second part starts, I was full of emotions. I loved the letters, that was such an awesome idea to convey feelings and keep the reader up-to-date, and then seeing Noah’s reaction to them made my heart hurt. There was so much heart, emotion and growth in this book. Thinking back to the beginning now I have finished it, I realize how amazing Kat wrote these characters. Even the secondary characters show real personal growth. You feel like you have lived with all of these people.
The ending with the headlines, as well as the epilogue, was absolutely perfect. I was filled with so much relief and happiness, I couldn’t have wiped the smile off my face even if I tried.
This was heartbreaking, sweet, sexy, and a story which will stay with me for a long time. The book cover is perfect! I absolutely recommend this to romance fans who are looking to take a journey through all the feels. Well done, Kat!
This book was a roller-coaster ride, and when the second part starts, I was full of emotions. I loved the letters, that was such an awesome idea to convey feelings and keep the reader up-to-date, and then seeing Noah’s reaction to them made my heart hurt. There was so much heart, emotion and growth in this book. Thinking back to the beginning now I have finished it, I realize how amazing Kat wrote these characters. Even the secondary characters show real personal growth. You feel like you have lived with all of these people.
The ending with the headlines, as well as the epilogue, was absolutely perfect. I was filled with so much relief and happiness, I couldn’t have wiped the smile off my face even if I tried.
This was heartbreaking, sweet, sexy, and a story which will stay with me for a long time. The book cover is perfect! I absolutely recommend this to romance fans who are looking to take a journey through all the feels. Well done, Kat!
Read
May 3, 2018#LBOF
Looking Back on Forever is a combined duet. Two books in one.
Synopsis:
Part 1:
Claire is the outcast of her school; shunned by her peers for her bigger than life dreams. The isolation doesn’t bother her, though, not when she knows she is working toward a bigger goal than her small-town existence.
Noah is the quintessential hot new kid, choosing to live with his aunt and uncle while his parents traverse the world. He thinks himself a simple boy, wanting nothing more than to play his guitar and live a modest life. The girls all want him, the boys are all envious of him, but Noah has eyes only for Claire.
Part 2:
Moving from Breckenridge, Colorado to New York City is Claire’s dream come true. She is one step closer to reaching her goal. However, it is Noah’s living nightmare. The home he wanted to come back to for so long is turning out to be his downfall.
Someone is betrayed. Someone is abandoned. Both move on the best they can.
One’s dreams are crushed. One gets the offer of a lifetime. Both are rocked by the truths left behind.
Life never turns out the way you want.
This is a contemporary romance story about first love and heartbreak, shattered dreams, life’s surprises, and fate’s plans. This is a story about love and forgiveness.
*** This book is intended for a mature audience. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18. Contains strong language, violence, and sexual situations. All parties portrayed in sexual situations are over the age of 18. ***
Word count: roughly 146,000
iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/y7qzgssk
Amazon: http://a.co/dnGXvCS
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/yc3v2mkl
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/jcmqlxj
Looking Back on Forever is a combined duet. Two books in one.
Synopsis:
Part 1:
Claire is the outcast of her school; shunned by her peers for her bigger than life dreams. The isolation doesn’t bother her, though, not when she knows she is working toward a bigger goal than her small-town existence.
Noah is the quintessential hot new kid, choosing to live with his aunt and uncle while his parents traverse the world. He thinks himself a simple boy, wanting nothing more than to play his guitar and live a modest life. The girls all want him, the boys are all envious of him, but Noah has eyes only for Claire.
Part 2:
Moving from Breckenridge, Colorado to New York City is Claire’s dream come true. She is one step closer to reaching her goal. However, it is Noah’s living nightmare. The home he wanted to come back to for so long is turning out to be his downfall.
Someone is betrayed. Someone is abandoned. Both move on the best they can.
One’s dreams are crushed. One gets the offer of a lifetime. Both are rocked by the truths left behind.
Life never turns out the way you want.
This is a contemporary romance story about first love and heartbreak, shattered dreams, life’s surprises, and fate’s plans. This is a story about love and forgiveness.
*** This book is intended for a mature audience. Not suitable for readers under the age of 18. Contains strong language, violence, and sexual situations. All parties portrayed in sexual situations are over the age of 18. ***
Word count: roughly 146,000
iTunes: http://tinyurl.com/y7qzgssk
Amazon: http://a.co/dnGXvCS
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/yc3v2mkl
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/jcmqlxj
July 1, 2017
3.5 Stars
This book had so much potential to be a 5 star read but certain things just didn't work for me. The book is told in two parts. The first part was good, a little slow plot wise and it did tend to drag in some areas. Eventually the story picked up and I found myself not being able to stop reading. I loved the build up between the characters. They didn't rush into anything and I enjoyed the slow burn to their romance. The story was told in dual point of view which I also loved!! I did feel a connection to the characters while reading which was another plus for me. My issue with the book happened in part two. The author starts laying the groundwork for some inevitable drama between the main characters and I wasn't surprised when it finally did happen. My issue with this was the hero's reasoning. When we find out why he did, what he did, I was livid! Really?? This was something that was so silly and could have been rectified if he would have communicated with her!!! Instead he put her through all this stress for a bs (imo) reason!!! After that I pretty much checked out of the story to be honest. In this case I felt the heroine was too good for him!! For a debut author this was a good book and she has a lot of potential!
*review copy received by author for honest opinion*
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
This book had so much potential to be a 5 star read but certain things just didn't work for me. The book is told in two parts. The first part was good, a little slow plot wise and it did tend to drag in some areas. Eventually the story picked up and I found myself not being able to stop reading. I loved the build up between the characters. They didn't rush into anything and I enjoyed the slow burn to their romance. The story was told in dual point of view which I also loved!! I did feel a connection to the characters while reading which was another plus for me. My issue with the book happened in part two. The author starts laying the groundwork for some inevitable drama between the main characters and I wasn't surprised when it finally did happen. My issue with this was the hero's reasoning. When we find out why he did, what he did, I was livid! Really?? This was something that was so silly and could have been rectified if he would have communicated with her!!! Instead he put her through all this stress for a bs (imo) reason!!! After that I pretty much checked out of the story to be honest. In this case I felt the heroine was too good for him!! For a debut author this was a good book and she has a lot of potential!
*review copy received by author for honest opinion*
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
April 7, 2017
I love stories with second chances.This story happens over a period of time, which I always love to see.
What is a love story without some kind of misfortune between the two main character Noah and Claire.
You are rooting for these two through the whole book. Kat Alexander does a fanastic job
of working your emotions in this novel. I actually had to reach for a tissue at one point.
I would definitely recommand this book you will not be disappointed.
What is a love story without some kind of misfortune between the two main character Noah and Claire.
You are rooting for these two through the whole book. Kat Alexander does a fanastic job
of working your emotions in this novel. I actually had to reach for a tissue at one point.
I would definitely recommand this book you will not be disappointed.
April 11, 2017
Title: Looking Back On Forever
Author: Kat Alexander
5 amazing stars
Oh my god. The emotions. The tears. The roller coaster of everything i wish i could have wiped away as easily as my tears with a tissue, but couldn't. i've felt this torn once before, and that was when i read Amber Lacie's Breathe, and that took me days to feel remotely normal again, and Looking Back On Forever made all those scars fresh again. I'm not sure if i should thank Kat Alexander for making me feel this way, or simply curse her for making me lose control of my ability to regain some sort of semblance of normalcy after feeling as though my heart was torn to shreds. Thank goodness that some good came out of it, which was to find what a gem Kat Alexander is as an author. In this novel we get to live and feel (not just read) Claire and Noah's love for each other through the years. From the moment they realize that they were made for one another to the moments when life happens and all their plans and dreams have to take a back seat to what needs to be done.
4breath taking dreams
Every single time i came to pick up this book, i had to start a mantra that no matter what, they'll make it. They simply had to. Love like that doens't always happen and rarely as strong as they've felt it. Honestly, i'm not sure what else to say about Looking Back On Forever without giving too much away, so i won't. all i'm going to say is that this is one book that you need to savor, to enjoy, to roll with the deep punches and especially have that box of tissues beside you so that you can finally breathe once you've flipped that last page. My only hope is that Kat Alexander's next release be just as powerful and emotional, but at the same time, i'll settle with memorable.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Author: Kat Alexander
5 amazing stars
Oh my god. The emotions. The tears. The roller coaster of everything i wish i could have wiped away as easily as my tears with a tissue, but couldn't. i've felt this torn once before, and that was when i read Amber Lacie's Breathe, and that took me days to feel remotely normal again, and Looking Back On Forever made all those scars fresh again. I'm not sure if i should thank Kat Alexander for making me feel this way, or simply curse her for making me lose control of my ability to regain some sort of semblance of normalcy after feeling as though my heart was torn to shreds. Thank goodness that some good came out of it, which was to find what a gem Kat Alexander is as an author. In this novel we get to live and feel (not just read) Claire and Noah's love for each other through the years. From the moment they realize that they were made for one another to the moments when life happens and all their plans and dreams have to take a back seat to what needs to be done.
4breath taking dreams
Every single time i came to pick up this book, i had to start a mantra that no matter what, they'll make it. They simply had to. Love like that doens't always happen and rarely as strong as they've felt it. Honestly, i'm not sure what else to say about Looking Back On Forever without giving too much away, so i won't. all i'm going to say is that this is one book that you need to savor, to enjoy, to roll with the deep punches and especially have that box of tissues beside you so that you can finally breathe once you've flipped that last page. My only hope is that Kat Alexander's next release be just as powerful and emotional, but at the same time, i'll settle with memorable.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
May 26, 2017
**I was given a free eBook copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
This review originally appeared on my blog, PopCrunchBoom Books
~~
So this will be a lengthy review only because it was a lengthly novel and has so much potential and such great themes and characters that stay with you!
This book has lots of potential. It explores a lot of the things teenagers experience during this period of their lives: first love, sex, friendships, relationships, planning for life after high school and self discovery. The novel also takes a step forward by delving into some heavier topics like abusive relationships & dealing with the pressures of high standards set by parents. By the time the book ends, topics of maturity, forgiveness, and trust also present themselves in the novel. I enjoyed seeing how the author weaved in these topics into the storyline.
As for the main characters, the author certainly has gotten into their minds. For the first part of the story I felt like the characters were lacking some depth and I had trouble connecting with them. I found Noah a bit jarring and confusing in his personality. He seemed very flippant in the beginning and then changed the instant he saw Claire so it just threw me a bit. Once time had past and the characters grew, I was able to connect with Claire more, but still had some annoyances with Noah. Although after reading this book these character really do stay with you. I think it has a lot to do with how long you spend reading about them and how well the author has gotten into their minds. Also, while I know some people don't mind it, I'm really not into insta-love. Still, I was rooting for the couple throughout the novel. I also appreciated that in the beginning Claire notes that she hadn't felt the feelings of attraction before she saw Noah. As someone who wasn't attracted to a lot of people in high school (aka not really boy crazy as some of my friends) I really related to this.
I do also want to point out that I wasn't always a fan of the way Noah described Claire--as someone/thing he wanted to keep innocent. He seemed to describe her as this small innocent thing with big doe eyes and I wasn't really keen on that imagery since she came off as a stronger female character during her narration as well as durning most of the scenes when she was doing something (like calming down Troy). I'm glad he stopped doing that by the second half of the novel, especially since Claire became an even stronger character.
The secondary characters seemed pretty two dimensional to me and seemed more like plot movers than anything else. Although, I did like the support Claire got from them as well as the glimpses of their life in the second half of the book. The secondary characters definitely got better in the second half of the novel.
I loved that Claire and her Dad had a mostly great relationship and that her Dad seemed to stand up for her and seems involved in her life. I also liked how he interacted with Noah. The parents in this novel were pretty varied, but I enjoyed how they were all mostly supportive and involved with their kids.
I think the biggest hindrance of this novel was the length. I really did end up enjoying the book once I finished. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster so definitely be prepared for that. To be honest, this story read almost like two books. I totally believe with some editing to beef up the first half (cutting out some of the slower parts and building Noah and Claire up some more ), this book could be released as a duology: the first book about their High School relationship (with the Noah cliffhanger) and then the second book about their relationship after. I really loved the second half a lot more. I loved seeing their relationship grow and them grow as characters. I loved watching the themes of trust, forgiveness and love unfold in the second half of the story more so then seeing their relationship at the beginning. The second half was definitely more powerful and worth reading the whole book for!
While the length of this book and the first half might turn some people away, I urge you to continue on to the second half! The characters get under your skin and stay there until you're thinking about them days later. I really ended up loving Claire and Noah once they grew as characters. Claire became such a strong female main character and I enjoyed seeing her grow into that role. Overall, the author did a good job of capturing the emotional rollercoaster life can take you on as well showcasing love, trust & forgiveness within a relationship. Looking Back on Forever ended up being a satisfying read!
This review originally appeared on my blog, PopCrunchBoom Books
~~
So this will be a lengthy review only because it was a lengthly novel and has so much potential and such great themes and characters that stay with you!
This book has lots of potential. It explores a lot of the things teenagers experience during this period of their lives: first love, sex, friendships, relationships, planning for life after high school and self discovery. The novel also takes a step forward by delving into some heavier topics like abusive relationships & dealing with the pressures of high standards set by parents. By the time the book ends, topics of maturity, forgiveness, and trust also present themselves in the novel. I enjoyed seeing how the author weaved in these topics into the storyline.
As for the main characters, the author certainly has gotten into their minds. For the first part of the story I felt like the characters were lacking some depth and I had trouble connecting with them. I found Noah a bit jarring and confusing in his personality. He seemed very flippant in the beginning and then changed the instant he saw Claire so it just threw me a bit. Once time had past and the characters grew, I was able to connect with Claire more, but still had some annoyances with Noah. Although after reading this book these character really do stay with you. I think it has a lot to do with how long you spend reading about them and how well the author has gotten into their minds. Also, while I know some people don't mind it, I'm really not into insta-love. Still, I was rooting for the couple throughout the novel. I also appreciated that in the beginning Claire notes that she hadn't felt the feelings of attraction before she saw Noah. As someone who wasn't attracted to a lot of people in high school (aka not really boy crazy as some of my friends) I really related to this.
I do also want to point out that I wasn't always a fan of the way Noah described Claire--as someone/thing he wanted to keep innocent. He seemed to describe her as this small innocent thing with big doe eyes and I wasn't really keen on that imagery since she came off as a stronger female character during her narration as well as durning most of the scenes when she was doing something (like calming down Troy). I'm glad he stopped doing that by the second half of the novel, especially since Claire became an even stronger character.
The secondary characters seemed pretty two dimensional to me and seemed more like plot movers than anything else. Although, I did like the support Claire got from them as well as the glimpses of their life in the second half of the book. The secondary characters definitely got better in the second half of the novel.
I loved that Claire and her Dad had a mostly great relationship and that her Dad seemed to stand up for her and seems involved in her life. I also liked how he interacted with Noah. The parents in this novel were pretty varied, but I enjoyed how they were all mostly supportive and involved with their kids.
I think the biggest hindrance of this novel was the length. I really did end up enjoying the book once I finished. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster so definitely be prepared for that. To be honest, this story read almost like two books. I totally believe with some editing to beef up the first half (cutting out some of the slower parts and building Noah and Claire up some more ), this book could be released as a duology: the first book about their High School relationship (with the Noah cliffhanger) and then the second book about their relationship after. I really loved the second half a lot more. I loved seeing their relationship grow and them grow as characters. I loved watching the themes of trust, forgiveness and love unfold in the second half of the story more so then seeing their relationship at the beginning. The second half was definitely more powerful and worth reading the whole book for!
While the length of this book and the first half might turn some people away, I urge you to continue on to the second half! The characters get under your skin and stay there until you're thinking about them days later. I really ended up loving Claire and Noah once they grew as characters. Claire became such a strong female main character and I enjoyed seeing her grow into that role. Overall, the author did a good job of capturing the emotional rollercoaster life can take you on as well showcasing love, trust & forgiveness within a relationship. Looking Back on Forever ended up being a satisfying read!
March 1, 2017
I'm a sucker for a second chance love story and this one was definitely that.
It's a beautifully tragic story of two teenagers who find their soulmates at such a young age that they aren't mature enough to really appreciate it yet. The twists and turns they have to take to learn and grow just break your heart. BUT Kat knows how to glue the pieces back together again. The story is well written and you do end up with a HEA. I found myself wanting to smack Noah around a lot during this book. I really enjoyed all the feels and it's a hell of an emotional roller coaster ride.
It's a beautifully tragic story of two teenagers who find their soulmates at such a young age that they aren't mature enough to really appreciate it yet. The twists and turns they have to take to learn and grow just break your heart. BUT Kat knows how to glue the pieces back together again. The story is well written and you do end up with a HEA. I found myself wanting to smack Noah around a lot during this book. I really enjoyed all the feels and it's a hell of an emotional roller coaster ride.
March 30, 2017
This story is without a question a journey full of emotions. I so badly wanted to befriend Claire. She's given the cold shoulder by the girls at her school because she is pretty and is fine with being who she is without trying to be like the other girls. She exudes a confidence without being arrogant and the other girls are just plain jealous of her. Noah is one I think we can all relate to; at least from time to time with his insecurities. Thankfully, he has an outlet that he is really good at: music! And, it doesn't hurt that he is also super cute.
This was such an endearing story that takes you through all of the emotions with so many elements to the story. The story of love, friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness makes this story unique and yet relatable. I loved the authors writing, creativity, and edge in this story.
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
This was such an endearing story that takes you through all of the emotions with so many elements to the story. The story of love, friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness makes this story unique and yet relatable. I loved the authors writing, creativity, and edge in this story.
For my full review, go to:
http://bookjunkiemom.blogspot.com/201...
April 9, 2017
This debut novel by Kay Alexander is simply amazing! It's a second chance novel, where two people get a song chance at love with their high school loves. Chloe and Noah have an emotional roller coaster of a relationship. I'm not usually a huge fan of second chance stories, but these characters suck you into their world. This book is filled with 100 different emotions but wraps up with a HEA ending. The writing was well done, leading me to want to read more from this new author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Claire and Noah are a very captivating couple. Their story is heartbreaking and beautiful. It’s brilliantly written and I absolutely recommend this book to others.
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Claire and Noah are a very captivating couple. Their story is heartbreaking and beautiful. It’s brilliantly written and I absolutely recommend this book to others.
March 7, 2017
Totally Fell In Love
The characters of this book come alive in your mind and in your heart. You fall in love with them as teenagers, and believe in their future, but much like real life they aren't mature enough to handle all that life throws at them.
I loved Noah but there were times I wanted to shake him and tell him to grow up. Beautiful Claire whos heart only belonged to one person. She broke my heart with her written thoughts. My heart actually hurt and I cried my eyes out. I felt as desperate to believe as she did.
The author Kat Alexander made it impossible to sleep because I couldn't put the book down until 3am and then when I did finally put the book down, I couldn't sleep because I was thinking about Noah and Claire.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape, fall in love and have a good cry!
I am definitely looking forward to the next book Kat writes.
The characters of this book come alive in your mind and in your heart. You fall in love with them as teenagers, and believe in their future, but much like real life they aren't mature enough to handle all that life throws at them.
I loved Noah but there were times I wanted to shake him and tell him to grow up. Beautiful Claire whos heart only belonged to one person. She broke my heart with her written thoughts. My heart actually hurt and I cried my eyes out. I felt as desperate to believe as she did.
The author Kat Alexander made it impossible to sleep because I couldn't put the book down until 3am and then when I did finally put the book down, I couldn't sleep because I was thinking about Noah and Claire.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape, fall in love and have a good cry!
I am definitely looking forward to the next book Kat writes.
December 17, 2017
Looking back on forever is a very emotional book. Once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. Noah and Claire are soulmates and that connection was felt by both of them at first sight. Even though they met in their teenage years, went through hardships, resulting in very deep scars; their love, passion, integrity dedication, strength and determination got them their “forever” ever lasting love! If you’re into True Love, I recommend you read this wonderful and unforgettable love story....
September 10, 2017
i was the lucky winner of a copy of this novel through a goodreads win. it is told through the perspectives of two teenagers named claire and noah. it is a love story filled with typical teenaged angst and is a very emotional book. the two are not yet mature enough to handle their new love. they meet each other again when they are adults and get a second chance to get it right. syndi
March 6, 2017
If you like books that are fun, some angst, some "oh no's," this is the book for you! There are a few characters in the story that at times you will love and other times you will want to shake and ask WTH. The book is very well written. I couldn't put it down!!
June 20, 2017
4.5 Stars!
April 19, 2025
I hated this book. It started out promising but went downhill fast. Im no prude but so many pages of soft porn between teenagers having sex everywhere is a weak excuse for writing. Also the the entire plot became so ridiculous and goopy. Pages and pages of reading someone’s letters are a pet peeve. Also what Noah does for no reason is also stupid. How this crap got published is beyond me. The ending made me want to vomit from sugar overload. Good god dont waste your time.
February 8, 2026
This is my first time reading Kat Alexander’s work. I read this book based on a simple ad for it shown on social media. It is a good story that moves slowly at times, though it felt intentional, and it held my attention. There are some heartbreaking moments though it does have a HEA. This book is for mature audiences.
April 19, 2017
As part of the Whispering Stories team, I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Please follow the link below:
https://jhbooksblog.wordpress.com/201...
I awarded 'Looking Back on Forever' three stars.
https://jhbooksblog.wordpress.com/201...
I awarded 'Looking Back on Forever' three stars.
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