What do you think?
Never Will I Forever
The love story that was never supposed to happen… becomes the one they can’t walk away from.
Meredith has built a life on her own terms—a successful photographer in Manhattan, keeping everything just out of reach.
Evan lives over 2,500 miles away. A Southern California native, he runs a surf school, spends his days in the water, and comes home sun-warmed and unbothered, his dog Bear never far behind. His life is simple by design—and he intends to keep it that way.
The attraction between them is immediate. Unavoidable. Complicated by the fact that Meredith’s sister is married to Evan’s best friend.
So they give it a boundary.
Call it what it is.
Just for fun.
It’s supposed to stay easy. Temporary. Something they can walk away from without looking back.
But some connections refuse to stay contained.
The more they try to keep their distance, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s building between them—something deeper, something neither of them planned for.
And neither of them knows how to stop.
Because this was never supposed to matter.
Now it’s the one thing they can’t let go.
Meredith has built a life on her own terms—a successful photographer in Manhattan, keeping everything just out of reach.
Evan lives over 2,500 miles away. A Southern California native, he runs a surf school, spends his days in the water, and comes home sun-warmed and unbothered, his dog Bear never far behind. His life is simple by design—and he intends to keep it that way.
The attraction between them is immediate. Unavoidable. Complicated by the fact that Meredith’s sister is married to Evan’s best friend.
So they give it a boundary.
Call it what it is.
Just for fun.
It’s supposed to stay easy. Temporary. Something they can walk away from without looking back.
But some connections refuse to stay contained.
The more they try to keep their distance, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s building between them—something deeper, something neither of them planned for.
And neither of them knows how to stop.
Because this was never supposed to matter.
Now it’s the one thing they can’t let go.
- GenresContemporaryRomance
318 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2026
About the author
Jillian Marie
4 books60 followersJillian Marie writes slow-burn romance with emotional depth, flawed characters, and stories that linger. Her books explore love in all its messy, meaningful forms—especially the kind that doesn’t follow the rules.
She’s a mom of three girls and finds joy in baking, reading, Pilates, and winding down with a cup of tea and honey. She writes at home—or in her car while her daughters are at dance—and finds inspiration in the quiet in-between moments of everyday life.
She lives with her husband and daughters in Southern California.
She’s a mom of three girls and finds joy in baking, reading, Pilates, and winding down with a cup of tea and honey. She writes at home—or in her car while her daughters are at dance—and finds inspiration in the quiet in-between moments of everyday life.
She lives with her husband and daughters in Southern California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
June 25, 2026
Happy Pub Day!
Once again, I unknowingly picked up a book that was part of a series. However, I really enjoyed Meredith and Evan's story and feel like this would make for a good standalone. There were obvious nods to the other books but not so much that I was confused. I will still be reading this whole series, though.
I loved that they didn't jump straight into forever and instead, started with a "this is just for fun" arrangement because the distance between Manhattan and Southern California (and the fact that Meredith's sister is married to Evan's best friend) made anything serious seem impossible. Of course, the more time they spent together, the more obvious it became that neither of them was actually keeping things casual. Well, one of them wasn't, anyway.
One of my favourite parts was watching Meredith slowly let her guard down. She'd built such an independent life for herself, while Evan was content with his laid-back routine of teaching surfing and hanging out with his dog. They seemed like complete opposites at first, but they balanced each other so well. Their quieter moments together ended up being just as meaningful as the bigger emotional ones.
The pacing dragged a little in the middle, and I found myself wishing a few conversations had happened sooner, but I also understood why the characters struggled with opening up. The emotional payoff at the end made it worth sticking with.
And while I’m not normally a fan of the accidental pregnancy trope, it kind of worked in this book because they were basically an established couple (even though Meredith swore up and down that she didn’t want anything to do with a relationship) so it didn’t feel weird or forced. I loved that she got the future she never knew she wanted or thought to allow herself to have. I had a fun time with this book.
Thank you to Jillian for allowing me to read this fantastic book early!
Once again, I unknowingly picked up a book that was part of a series. However, I really enjoyed Meredith and Evan's story and feel like this would make for a good standalone. There were obvious nods to the other books but not so much that I was confused. I will still be reading this whole series, though.
I loved that they didn't jump straight into forever and instead, started with a "this is just for fun" arrangement because the distance between Manhattan and Southern California (and the fact that Meredith's sister is married to Evan's best friend) made anything serious seem impossible. Of course, the more time they spent together, the more obvious it became that neither of them was actually keeping things casual. Well, one of them wasn't, anyway.
One of my favourite parts was watching Meredith slowly let her guard down. She'd built such an independent life for herself, while Evan was content with his laid-back routine of teaching surfing and hanging out with his dog. They seemed like complete opposites at first, but they balanced each other so well. Their quieter moments together ended up being just as meaningful as the bigger emotional ones.
The pacing dragged a little in the middle, and I found myself wishing a few conversations had happened sooner, but I also understood why the characters struggled with opening up. The emotional payoff at the end made it worth sticking with.
And while I’m not normally a fan of the accidental pregnancy trope, it kind of worked in this book because they were basically an established couple (even though Meredith swore up and down that she didn’t want anything to do with a relationship) so it didn’t feel weird or forced. I loved that she got the future she never knew she wanted or thought to allow herself to have. I had a fun time with this book.
Thank you to Jillian for allowing me to read this fantastic book early!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2026
No matter how far out I paddled, the ocean always had a way of carrying her back to me. ❤️
Meredith Gifray and Evan Curtis.. oh where do I begin.
This one holds a special place in my heart. The angst, the tension, the pure love these two had for each other was perfect.
Jillian did a phenomenal job at catching both mc’s feelings throughout.
No matter how many chances someone has, sometimes it’s just not the right time.
I did note and highlight so much while reading this one. I felt the passion on every page, literally.
Toxic, yes. Very. But oh so emotional. When two people literally belong together more than any two people in the world. I just wanted to smack both Evan & Meredith so hard 😂
I did love the summer vibes. I loved reading this one on the beach, absolutely such a good time.
4.5/5⭐️
Thank you Jillian Marie for letting me read Never will I forever.
Releases June 25
Meredith Gifray and Evan Curtis.. oh where do I begin.
This one holds a special place in my heart. The angst, the tension, the pure love these two had for each other was perfect.
Jillian did a phenomenal job at catching both mc’s feelings throughout.
No matter how many chances someone has, sometimes it’s just not the right time.
I did note and highlight so much while reading this one. I felt the passion on every page, literally.
Toxic, yes. Very. But oh so emotional. When two people literally belong together more than any two people in the world. I just wanted to smack both Evan & Meredith so hard 😂
I did love the summer vibes. I loved reading this one on the beach, absolutely such a good time.
4.5/5⭐️
Thank you Jillian Marie for letting me read Never will I forever.
Releases June 25
June 10, 2026
I gave it a 2.5 ⭐️
While I was so excited to be reading this book early, it was not my cup of tea. In the beginning I was hoping for more character development and/or background on both of the main characters. I didn’t really get why they couldn’t be together. Then by the middle you kind of get the picture but they just keep doing the will they won’t they until the very end of the book.
I did not like Meredith, she is supposed to be 36 but acts more like she’s in her early 20s. I thought they were much younger until the middle of the book they actually revealed their ages.
I thought maybe I would go back and read the first two in the series but I know that it’s two books following the same couple and I don’t think I can force myself to sit through it.
While I was so excited to be reading this book early, it was not my cup of tea. In the beginning I was hoping for more character development and/or background on both of the main characters. I didn’t really get why they couldn’t be together. Then by the middle you kind of get the picture but they just keep doing the will they won’t they until the very end of the book.
I did not like Meredith, she is supposed to be 36 but acts more like she’s in her early 20s. I thought they were much younger until the middle of the book they actually revealed their ages.
I thought maybe I would go back and read the first two in the series but I know that it’s two books following the same couple and I don’t think I can force myself to sit through it.
Review of advance copy
this one is going to be a 1.5 ⭐️ for me. i wanted to enjoy this book so badly and was so thankful to have the opportunity to read as an eARC, but i think this one just wasn’t my cup of tea.
the writing style was varied throughout the main chunks of this book, which i felt was the biggest thing that prevented me from enjoying Meredith and Evan’s story. the beginning of the book drops you straight in to an already broken up couple with flashbacks to their past FWB relationship. the flashbacks themselves were sometimes confusing to follow, as certain scenes would be written into already present-day chapters while other flashbacks would get their own chapter. i felt that this made the beginning of the book a bit disjointed, and it lessened my excitement for picking it back up. from my understanding, flashbacks are typically used to provide better insight as to why the present-day situation is the way that it is, but i felt that we didn’t really get a clear answer as to why the characters had grown apart. it definitely became obvious later on when it was revealed that they had different expectations for each other and the relationship itself, but it seemed like this was an answer we more so got from watching the story progress rather than from reading past-tense scenes.
i’ve seen a few other early readers saying that they felt Meredith’s character had some flaws that made her unenjoyable to read, but i actually thought she came off as way more relatable than they’d described. she was flawed, self-aware, and she wasn’t willing to compromise who she was just because others thought she should. while i didn’t always agree with her decision making or opinions, i have to admire that she absolutely stood up for what she wanted.
what i didn’t expect was that the character i’d have a hard time enjoying was actually Evan. all the promotional content i’ve seen for this book has described him as a “walking green flag” and a “reformed bachelor,” but i personally didn’t get either of those qualities while reading from his perspective. i was totally with him regarding his stance on their relationship for 95% of this book. i would have been the first in line to tell you that i was team Evan, despite his chapters not being as exciting to read as Meredith’s. when it came time for the big reveal* at the end of the story, however, i couldn’t help but to shake my head at the way he handled things. the patience and understanding we’d seen from him throughout the entire rest of the book had somehow vanished completely. there were also certain things he’d said toward the very end of the story that kind of rubbed me the wrong way. i’m doing my best not to spoil anything, but for those of you who have read, it applies to the things he’d said that were very presumptuous and, in my opinion, came off as though he would only be happy if one specific aspect matched his vision of how their HEA would unfold.
i am honestly very thrilled for Meredith that she was able to reach a happy ending that she was actually happy to receive. i just don’t know if i would have imagined everything playing out exactly the way it did. i would still love to read more books by this author, and i am very grateful for the opportunity to have read Never Will I Forever as an early reader <3
the writing style was varied throughout the main chunks of this book, which i felt was the biggest thing that prevented me from enjoying Meredith and Evan’s story. the beginning of the book drops you straight in to an already broken up couple with flashbacks to their past FWB relationship. the flashbacks themselves were sometimes confusing to follow, as certain scenes would be written into already present-day chapters while other flashbacks would get their own chapter. i felt that this made the beginning of the book a bit disjointed, and it lessened my excitement for picking it back up. from my understanding, flashbacks are typically used to provide better insight as to why the present-day situation is the way that it is, but i felt that we didn’t really get a clear answer as to why the characters had grown apart. it definitely became obvious later on when it was revealed that they had different expectations for each other and the relationship itself, but it seemed like this was an answer we more so got from watching the story progress rather than from reading past-tense scenes.
i’ve seen a few other early readers saying that they felt Meredith’s character had some flaws that made her unenjoyable to read, but i actually thought she came off as way more relatable than they’d described. she was flawed, self-aware, and she wasn’t willing to compromise who she was just because others thought she should. while i didn’t always agree with her decision making or opinions, i have to admire that she absolutely stood up for what she wanted.
what i didn’t expect was that the character i’d have a hard time enjoying was actually Evan. all the promotional content i’ve seen for this book has described him as a “walking green flag” and a “reformed bachelor,” but i personally didn’t get either of those qualities while reading from his perspective. i was totally with him regarding his stance on their relationship for 95% of this book. i would have been the first in line to tell you that i was team Evan, despite his chapters not being as exciting to read as Meredith’s. when it came time for the big reveal* at the end of the story, however, i couldn’t help but to shake my head at the way he handled things. the patience and understanding we’d seen from him throughout the entire rest of the book had somehow vanished completely. there were also certain things he’d said toward the very end of the story that kind of rubbed me the wrong way. i’m doing my best not to spoil anything, but for those of you who have read, it applies to the things he’d said that were very presumptuous and, in my opinion, came off as though he would only be happy if one specific aspect matched his vision of how their HEA would unfold.
i am honestly very thrilled for Meredith that she was able to reach a happy ending that she was actually happy to receive. i just don’t know if i would have imagined everything playing out exactly the way it did. i would still love to read more books by this author, and i am very grateful for the opportunity to have read Never Will I Forever as an early reader <3
June 8, 2026
Never Will I Forever was a cute summer romance featuring Meredith and Evan. This friends with benefits he falls first romance has all the coastal vibes and if you like a dual timeline then you might like this one. I didn’t really gel with Meredith for some reason maybe if I had read the prior books in the series it might of been different and I didn’t really get their ages, they are supposed to be older in their 30’s and 40’s but come across much younger. An overall good read!
3 1/2 🌟 rolled up to a 4
I received a complementary copy from the author.
3 1/2 🌟 rolled up to a 4
I received a complementary copy from the author.
July 26, 2026
I don’t think I’ve ever had a romance series stay with me quite like this one.
Ever since I picked up book one, these characters have been living rent-free in my head. I still think about them weekly, and I honestly don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon.
One of the things Jillian Marie does so well is write characters that feel like real people. Their struggles, fears, relationships, and even their mistakes feel believable, which made this entire series incredibly easy to get lost in.
I was so excited that this book shifted the focus to Meredith and Evan. We’ve watched pieces of their relationship develop throughout the series, so finally getting their story felt incredibly rewarding.
Evan…
Can we talk about this man?
He was everything I want in a book boyfriend. Sweet, patient, supportive, and completely sure of what he wanted. He loved Meredith without ever making her feel like she had to become someone else, and even when she kept pulling away, he never stopped believing they could have something real.
Meredith was a much more frustrating character… but in a way that made sense.
She’s built an incredible life for herself as a successful photographer in Manhattan, and she’s fiercely independent. Between her mother’s abandonment and watching her sister go through a painful divorce, she convinced herself that love wasn’t worth the risk. She’d rather keep things casual than risk losing herself or getting hurt.
I understood why she felt that way.
Did I still want to shake her sometimes?
Absolutely. 😂
There were so many moments where I wanted to yell, “HE LOVES YOU. YOU LOVE HIM. PLEASE JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER.”
Watching Evan repeatedly open his heart only for Meredith to retreat was honestly heartbreaking. You could tell every goodbye hurt them both, but neither of them knew how to break the cycle.
Their chemistry was incredible, but what stood out even more was how naturally they balanced each other.
Meredith thrived in the fast-paced chaos of New York while Evan lived a slower life teaching surfing, gardening, and spending time with his dog, Bear. On paper they seemed like complete opposites, but together they just… worked.
Some of my favorite moments weren’t even the big emotional scenes. They were the quiet moments where Meredith slowly started letting her guard down. Watching her realize she didn’t have to choose between her independence and being loved was such a beautiful journey.
There were a few slower sections in the middle, but the emotional payoff at the end made every page worth it.
I also loved that both characters were in their 30s and 40s. Their relationship felt mature, messy, and grounded in real-life experiences instead of unnecessary drama.
This entire series has become one of my favorite contemporary romances, and I honestly hope Jillian Marie isn’t finished with this family because I would read about them forever.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. Although my review came a little later than planned, I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience Meredith and Evan’s story.
Ever since I picked up book one, these characters have been living rent-free in my head. I still think about them weekly, and I honestly don’t think that’s going to change anytime soon.
One of the things Jillian Marie does so well is write characters that feel like real people. Their struggles, fears, relationships, and even their mistakes feel believable, which made this entire series incredibly easy to get lost in.
I was so excited that this book shifted the focus to Meredith and Evan. We’ve watched pieces of their relationship develop throughout the series, so finally getting their story felt incredibly rewarding.
Evan…
Can we talk about this man?
He was everything I want in a book boyfriend. Sweet, patient, supportive, and completely sure of what he wanted. He loved Meredith without ever making her feel like she had to become someone else, and even when she kept pulling away, he never stopped believing they could have something real.
Meredith was a much more frustrating character… but in a way that made sense.
She’s built an incredible life for herself as a successful photographer in Manhattan, and she’s fiercely independent. Between her mother’s abandonment and watching her sister go through a painful divorce, she convinced herself that love wasn’t worth the risk. She’d rather keep things casual than risk losing herself or getting hurt.
I understood why she felt that way.
Did I still want to shake her sometimes?
Absolutely. 😂
There were so many moments where I wanted to yell, “HE LOVES YOU. YOU LOVE HIM. PLEASE JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER.”
Watching Evan repeatedly open his heart only for Meredith to retreat was honestly heartbreaking. You could tell every goodbye hurt them both, but neither of them knew how to break the cycle.
Their chemistry was incredible, but what stood out even more was how naturally they balanced each other.
Meredith thrived in the fast-paced chaos of New York while Evan lived a slower life teaching surfing, gardening, and spending time with his dog, Bear. On paper they seemed like complete opposites, but together they just… worked.
Some of my favorite moments weren’t even the big emotional scenes. They were the quiet moments where Meredith slowly started letting her guard down. Watching her realize she didn’t have to choose between her independence and being loved was such a beautiful journey.
There were a few slower sections in the middle, but the emotional payoff at the end made every page worth it.
I also loved that both characters were in their 30s and 40s. Their relationship felt mature, messy, and grounded in real-life experiences instead of unnecessary drama.
This entire series has become one of my favorite contemporary romances, and I honestly hope Jillian Marie isn’t finished with this family because I would read about them forever.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. Although my review came a little later than planned, I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience Meredith and Evan’s story.
June 24, 2026
Oh, Jillian Marie!! You are officially one of my favorite romance authors. If she writes it, I will read it!
Never Will I Forever is the third book in The Kind of Perfect Series. However it can be read as a standalone.
Never Will I forever follows Meredith and Evan.
Meredith has built a life on her own terms as a successful photographer in Manhattan.
Evan lives over 2,500 miles away in Southern California. He runs a surf school, spends his days in the water, and comes home to his dog, Bear.
Meredith’s sister is married to Evan’s best friend.
When an immediate and unavoidable attraction blooms between them, they give it a boundary. Just for fun.
It’s supposed to stay easy and temporary, but some connections refuse to stay contained.
Evan is the sweetest MMC and he knows what he wants. He’s the perfect book boyfriend. Meredith is strong, independent and quite the indecisive girly (which I can absolutely relate with). Watching their relationship blossom and unfold over and over again was a beautiful and sometimes frustrating ride but absolutely worth every moment.
This story was deep, sweet, and an absolute rollercoaster. I completely fell in love with this book. It was the perfect blend of emotional depth and sweetness. I loved that the FMC and MMC were in their 30s and 40s and it made their connection feel so relatable and grounded.
Highly recommend!
Never Will I Forever is the third book in The Kind of Perfect Series. However it can be read as a standalone.
Never Will I forever follows Meredith and Evan.
Meredith has built a life on her own terms as a successful photographer in Manhattan.
Evan lives over 2,500 miles away in Southern California. He runs a surf school, spends his days in the water, and comes home to his dog, Bear.
Meredith’s sister is married to Evan’s best friend.
When an immediate and unavoidable attraction blooms between them, they give it a boundary. Just for fun.
It’s supposed to stay easy and temporary, but some connections refuse to stay contained.
Evan is the sweetest MMC and he knows what he wants. He’s the perfect book boyfriend. Meredith is strong, independent and quite the indecisive girly (which I can absolutely relate with). Watching their relationship blossom and unfold over and over again was a beautiful and sometimes frustrating ride but absolutely worth every moment.
This story was deep, sweet, and an absolute rollercoaster. I completely fell in love with this book. It was the perfect blend of emotional depth and sweetness. I loved that the FMC and MMC were in their 30s and 40s and it made their connection feel so relatable and grounded.
Highly recommend!
June 25, 2026
While this is the third book in the series it is a great standalone alone. I felt all the things while falling in love with this story. It was somehow so very relatable in so many ways. It felt real, and raw, and gritty. Real life is messy and this really hit the nail on the head in so many ways. At the beginning of the story I didn’t see myself falling in love with it like I did because it started off with less context than I would have liked about their history but considering I didn’t read the first two books (which I have to go read now), I didn’t hold this against the railing. The spice was on the mild side compared to what I normally read but the heart was all there! Don’t mind how long it took me to read it, I moved across the state in the middle of this book so I had long breaks and very little reading time.
PS. I adore Evan! Great first ARC 🥂
PS. I adore Evan! Great first ARC 🥂
June 7, 2026
A cute summer romance full of friction, angst, and passion. What seems like absolute right person, wrong time turns into far more than either are prepared for. But will their love be enough?
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Meredith and Evan's journey is far more than a romance, it's a heartfelt story about overcoming childhood wounds, learning to trust love, and finding the courage to choose happiness.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some love stories are about falling in love.
This one is about learning how to stay.
From the very first pages, Meredith and Evan's story broke my heart in the best possible way. What begins as a no-strings-attached relationship quickly reveals itself to be something far deeper: two people carrying childhood wounds so profound that they have spent their entire lives convincing themselves they don't need what they secretly want most.
Meredith and Evan are remarkably similar. Both were shaped by absent parents and unstable childhoods. Meredith's mother left when she was young, leaving behind only a note telling her to "stay strong." Evan grew up with an alcoholic father who eventually left and a mother consumed by sadness. Neither of them had healthy examples of love, permanence, or family.
Yet what fascinated me most was how differently those wounds shaped them.
Meredith learned that depending on someone meant risking abandonment. She built a life around independence, control, and self-preservation. She convinced herself that love was dangerous because losing it would destroy her.
Evan, however, looked at his childhood and reached the opposite conclusion. Instead of running from commitment, he dreamed of creating the family he never had. He wanted stability, partnership, and a future filled with love.
The beauty of this story lies in the fact that neither character is wrong. Their conflict never feels manufactured. It isn't about a lack of love. In fact, that's what makes it hurt so much. They love each other deeply long before Meredith is willing to admit it.
Watching Meredith struggle throughout this book was both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding. She spends so much of the story fighting her own feelings, convincing herself that there is no solution, no middle ground, no possible future where she and Evan can work. Meanwhile, every action, every tear, every memory proves otherwise.
The emotional growth in this novel is exceptional.
Meredith starts the story believing strength means never needing anyone. By the end, she learns that true strength is allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to love and be loved in return.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how the author handled her emotional awakening. Meredith isn't magically healed. She doesn't suddenly overcome years of fear. Instead, her walls crack slowly. First she misses him. Then she cries for him. Then she dreams about losing him. Then she admits she loves him. Every step feels earned.
And Evan. Oh, Evan. This man loved Meredith with patience, understanding, and incredible emotional maturity. What made him so special wasn't that he never got hurt he absolutely did. It was that he refused to settle for half of her. He loved her enough to want all of her, and he respected himself enough to wait until she was ready to choose that future too.
One of the most powerful revelations in the book comes when Evan admits that Meredith's similarities to him are what made him fall in love with her. He sees her fears. He recognizes her wounds because they mirror his own. Yet instead of running from them, he chooses her anyway. That kind of love felt deeply meaningful.
The supporting cast deserves recognition as well. Natalie and Will were the backbone of this story. They weren't simply cheering from the sidelines; they challenged Meredith and Evan when they needed it most. Natalie especially understood that Meredith's problem was never a lack of love. It was a lack of trust in her own ability to be happy.
The pregnancy storyline was surprisingly emotional because it wasn't used as a shortcut to solve their problems. Instead, it forced Meredith to confront her deepest fears. The scenes surrounding the baby's heartbeat, their conversations about becoming parents, and later choosing Sammy's name completely melted my heart.
And then came the ending.
The proposal was perfect because it wasn't grand or dramatic. It was honest. Evan had already bought the ring and was simply waiting until Meredith was ready. That detail alone perfectly captured their entire relationship.
Their vows absolutely shattered me.
Meredith thanking Evan for not giving up on her when she ran "and then ran again" perfectly summarized her journey. Evan thanking her for letting him love her and for giving him "our family, my family" carried so much weight knowing everything he had experienced growing up.
The wedding felt intimate, emotional, and deeply earned. Seeing these two people, who spent so much of the book afraid of the future, finally choose forever together was incredibly satisfying.
And then Sammy. Sweet little Sammy.
After everything these characters endured, watching them become the loving family they both deserved felt like the most beautiful full-circle moment imaginable.
This story isn't simply about romance. It's about healing. It's about breaking cycles. It's about learning that the people who hurt us don't have to define the love we are capable of creating for ourselves.
Most importantly, it's about understanding that love isn't weakness.
For Meredith and Evan, love became the bravest choice they ever made.
A deeply emotional, beautifully written romance about trust, family, second chances, and choosing happiness even when you're terrified.
I loved every page. 😍❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some love stories are about falling in love.
This one is about learning how to stay.
From the very first pages, Meredith and Evan's story broke my heart in the best possible way. What begins as a no-strings-attached relationship quickly reveals itself to be something far deeper: two people carrying childhood wounds so profound that they have spent their entire lives convincing themselves they don't need what they secretly want most.
Meredith and Evan are remarkably similar. Both were shaped by absent parents and unstable childhoods. Meredith's mother left when she was young, leaving behind only a note telling her to "stay strong." Evan grew up with an alcoholic father who eventually left and a mother consumed by sadness. Neither of them had healthy examples of love, permanence, or family.
Yet what fascinated me most was how differently those wounds shaped them.
Meredith learned that depending on someone meant risking abandonment. She built a life around independence, control, and self-preservation. She convinced herself that love was dangerous because losing it would destroy her.
Evan, however, looked at his childhood and reached the opposite conclusion. Instead of running from commitment, he dreamed of creating the family he never had. He wanted stability, partnership, and a future filled with love.
The beauty of this story lies in the fact that neither character is wrong. Their conflict never feels manufactured. It isn't about a lack of love. In fact, that's what makes it hurt so much. They love each other deeply long before Meredith is willing to admit it.
Watching Meredith struggle throughout this book was both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding. She spends so much of the story fighting her own feelings, convincing herself that there is no solution, no middle ground, no possible future where she and Evan can work. Meanwhile, every action, every tear, every memory proves otherwise.
The emotional growth in this novel is exceptional.
Meredith starts the story believing strength means never needing anyone. By the end, she learns that true strength is allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to love and be loved in return.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how the author handled her emotional awakening. Meredith isn't magically healed. She doesn't suddenly overcome years of fear. Instead, her walls crack slowly. First she misses him. Then she cries for him. Then she dreams about losing him. Then she admits she loves him. Every step feels earned.
And Evan. Oh, Evan. This man loved Meredith with patience, understanding, and incredible emotional maturity. What made him so special wasn't that he never got hurt he absolutely did. It was that he refused to settle for half of her. He loved her enough to want all of her, and he respected himself enough to wait until she was ready to choose that future too.
One of the most powerful revelations in the book comes when Evan admits that Meredith's similarities to him are what made him fall in love with her. He sees her fears. He recognizes her wounds because they mirror his own. Yet instead of running from them, he chooses her anyway. That kind of love felt deeply meaningful.
The supporting cast deserves recognition as well. Natalie and Will were the backbone of this story. They weren't simply cheering from the sidelines; they challenged Meredith and Evan when they needed it most. Natalie especially understood that Meredith's problem was never a lack of love. It was a lack of trust in her own ability to be happy.
The pregnancy storyline was surprisingly emotional because it wasn't used as a shortcut to solve their problems. Instead, it forced Meredith to confront her deepest fears. The scenes surrounding the baby's heartbeat, their conversations about becoming parents, and later choosing Sammy's name completely melted my heart.
And then came the ending.
The proposal was perfect because it wasn't grand or dramatic. It was honest. Evan had already bought the ring and was simply waiting until Meredith was ready. That detail alone perfectly captured their entire relationship.
Their vows absolutely shattered me.
Meredith thanking Evan for not giving up on her when she ran "and then ran again" perfectly summarized her journey. Evan thanking her for letting him love her and for giving him "our family, my family" carried so much weight knowing everything he had experienced growing up.
The wedding felt intimate, emotional, and deeply earned. Seeing these two people, who spent so much of the book afraid of the future, finally choose forever together was incredibly satisfying.
And then Sammy. Sweet little Sammy.
After everything these characters endured, watching them become the loving family they both deserved felt like the most beautiful full-circle moment imaginable.
This story isn't simply about romance. It's about healing. It's about breaking cycles. It's about learning that the people who hurt us don't have to define the love we are capable of creating for ourselves.
Most importantly, it's about understanding that love isn't weakness.
For Meredith and Evan, love became the bravest choice they ever made.
A deeply emotional, beautifully written romance about trust, family, second chances, and choosing happiness even when you're terrified.
I loved every page. 😍❤️
July 6, 2026
"...smiling like he was falling straight into my life." -Meredith
Meredith & Evan. I love them and have since they met in Natalie and Will's story (don't worry, this works as a standalone, too). Meredith is a New York photographer who has worked hard to make her way in the city and find success. Evan runs a surf school and is well known in surfing circles where he is still a big name. On opposite coasts. In love. But she keeps running.
The back and forth of these two, unable to stay away from each other was so angst producing. I couldn't put this book down and I could barely sit still while reading it. Meredith's fears and her insistence that she not put herself in the path of being dependent on anyone else kept her heart away from Evan but she couldn't hide from herself. I loved that this showed Meredith really coming of age - watching everyone around her in her New York maturing and settling down. I love that Jillian Marie was able to bring the struggle to the page so realistically - it's hard when all of the sudden all the things that you loved start becoming not as much fun. I also want to insert here that I think her behavior sometimes comes off as being immature for her age, but I would offer another viewpoint - she lives in New York, she's surrounded by a party scene. In her friend group they are going out to clubs, partying in the Hamptons, etc. It's part of the culture. She is not in the suburbs, surrounded by families trying to rile up all the housewives into going to a rave. It's the 'burbs and that life that scare her which is why she is having such an issue settling down with Evan.
Evan is a gem - he is so patient, so loving, and understood better what was happening in his life and how his wants and needs were changing (and he's older). I absolutely loved the relationship these two built together - keeping things light and friendly and then realizing that what started out as friends with benefits really started to turn the corner and it was something that was going to have to be figured out.
I knew I'd be reading this book as I enjoyed the first two in the series and didn't read a blurb or anything about it, knowing it was Meredith and Evan was enough so I was completely taken by surprise with the outcome and absolutely loved it. LOVED IT. I had a great time reading this book, loved where they took it, loved where they ended up.
"Because from where I stood, it sounded a lot like she wanted access to me without the risk of actually having me."-Evan
Meredith & Evan. I love them and have since they met in Natalie and Will's story (don't worry, this works as a standalone, too). Meredith is a New York photographer who has worked hard to make her way in the city and find success. Evan runs a surf school and is well known in surfing circles where he is still a big name. On opposite coasts. In love. But she keeps running.
The back and forth of these two, unable to stay away from each other was so angst producing. I couldn't put this book down and I could barely sit still while reading it. Meredith's fears and her insistence that she not put herself in the path of being dependent on anyone else kept her heart away from Evan but she couldn't hide from herself. I loved that this showed Meredith really coming of age - watching everyone around her in her New York maturing and settling down. I love that Jillian Marie was able to bring the struggle to the page so realistically - it's hard when all of the sudden all the things that you loved start becoming not as much fun. I also want to insert here that I think her behavior sometimes comes off as being immature for her age, but I would offer another viewpoint - she lives in New York, she's surrounded by a party scene. In her friend group they are going out to clubs, partying in the Hamptons, etc. It's part of the culture. She is not in the suburbs, surrounded by families trying to rile up all the housewives into going to a rave. It's the 'burbs and that life that scare her which is why she is having such an issue settling down with Evan.
Evan is a gem - he is so patient, so loving, and understood better what was happening in his life and how his wants and needs were changing (and he's older). I absolutely loved the relationship these two built together - keeping things light and friendly and then realizing that what started out as friends with benefits really started to turn the corner and it was something that was going to have to be figured out.
I knew I'd be reading this book as I enjoyed the first two in the series and didn't read a blurb or anything about it, knowing it was Meredith and Evan was enough so I was completely taken by surprise with the outcome and absolutely loved it. LOVED IT. I had a great time reading this book, loved where they took it, loved where they ended up.
"Because from where I stood, it sounded a lot like she wanted access to me without the risk of actually having me."-Evan
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4⭐️ // 3.5🌶
Jillian Maries books are truely one of a kind. Her books are not the traditional "all flutter and shiny" romcoms, but rather lifelike, genuine stories so many people are actually LIVING. Love can be messy and painful and is hard work, but it can also be light and fun and sizzling: THAT is what makes love so damn special. Jillian has the talent to show love in all its raw and rough facets, all the good and bad and messy sides of it, whilst showing how love is always worth it. Worth to take the leap for. But also that one will never get an epic love if they are not willing to risk their most important piece that is your heart.
In "Never will I forever", the MCs are realistic, wit and kind, and accompanied with their own demons. It is a beautiful story about two people in love whilst all signs tell it is not meant to be. Evan lives in OC, Meredith lives in NY. Evans business is all around surfing, Merediths is a photographer known in the glam & glimmer elite. They agreed this was just casual, but then it was not.
The story starts with two heartbroken souls, after the beautiful, casual journey they shared turned into a minefield of feelings, expectations and different goals. They both know the right thing to do is to move on, that love sometimes means letting go. But even though they try, the pull between them never goes away. As her sister is married to his bestfriend, they can not exactly scrap each other out of their life. They need to make it work, for the sake of their families.
Add to that, the history of both leaving them with abandoment issues. Meredith is certain she is happier alone, a single ready to mingle and party. However, all that doesn't feel the same anymore. But she is afraid, afraid to believe in love, afraid to hurt even harder if she lets one in and it falls apart and afraid to be honest with herself. She keeps pushing Evan away, keeps ignoring what everyone sees clearly - they are perfect for each other. Evan is a walking green flag, generous, forgiving and madly in love. Ready to do whatever it takes to have her as his. But when she pushes him away, he tries to put space in between them, tries to get over her. But is it worth to survive losing your heart forever?
"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚.
Jillian Maries books are truely one of a kind. Her books are not the traditional "all flutter and shiny" romcoms, but rather lifelike, genuine stories so many people are actually LIVING. Love can be messy and painful and is hard work, but it can also be light and fun and sizzling: THAT is what makes love so damn special. Jillian has the talent to show love in all its raw and rough facets, all the good and bad and messy sides of it, whilst showing how love is always worth it. Worth to take the leap for. But also that one will never get an epic love if they are not willing to risk their most important piece that is your heart.
In "Never will I forever", the MCs are realistic, wit and kind, and accompanied with their own demons. It is a beautiful story about two people in love whilst all signs tell it is not meant to be. Evan lives in OC, Meredith lives in NY. Evans business is all around surfing, Merediths is a photographer known in the glam & glimmer elite. They agreed this was just casual, but then it was not.
The story starts with two heartbroken souls, after the beautiful, casual journey they shared turned into a minefield of feelings, expectations and different goals. They both know the right thing to do is to move on, that love sometimes means letting go. But even though they try, the pull between them never goes away. As her sister is married to his bestfriend, they can not exactly scrap each other out of their life. They need to make it work, for the sake of their families.
Add to that, the history of both leaving them with abandoment issues. Meredith is certain she is happier alone, a single ready to mingle and party. However, all that doesn't feel the same anymore. But she is afraid, afraid to believe in love, afraid to hurt even harder if she lets one in and it falls apart and afraid to be honest with herself. She keeps pushing Evan away, keeps ignoring what everyone sees clearly - they are perfect for each other. Evan is a walking green flag, generous, forgiving and madly in love. Ready to do whatever it takes to have her as his. But when she pushes him away, he tries to put space in between them, tries to get over her. But is it worth to survive losing your heart forever?
"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚.
Review of advance copy received from Author
i went into this book with high expectations because i always love a frilly summer romance, i however don’t think this book was the one for me.
to start, i think if you want a quick read, something you can easily digest, and something that has a happy ending, this is totally a good palate cleanser book. it also does have sm*t in it if you’re looking for that!! we are following meredith and evan through this story through years of being star crossed lovers (ish) and i honestly loved the storyline (although quite predictable for the most part) because it was just a decent romance to get me out of a slump! good characters and i think evan is just a sweetheart and is a patient and understanding man that was perfect for mer because she truly needed that security after her childhood - and despite evan’s complicated life, he persevered. it really made me feel for them, and this book storyline overall i really enjoyed.
all this to say, the writing itself felt quite juvenile at times and just weird at others. i’m not the kind of person who likes the phrase “daddy” or too much intense talking during sm*t scenes and there was so much of that and it kinda rubbed me the wrong way ngl. idk it was like the non sex scenes were written storyline well, writing style was either too descriptive in the wrong areas or under descriptive in others, and the sentence structure just wasn’t aligned with my taste (but nonetheless it made for a cute romance!!!), and the sex scenes feeling too weirdly intimate with the phrasing but the rest of the book feeling like a YA novel storyline just confused me while i was reading.
i wouldn’t read it again but i do think this book had a good storyline that i enjoyed reading during my travels because it allowed me to read something quite quickly because i was invested (even tho we can kinda predict a happy ending hehe) all while i was very busy during my day!!
i was traveling a LOT but honestly coulda finished this book in a day but i was so limited on time so it took me way longer than it normally would have - quick & cute read overall, just not my writing style but i did enjoy majority of the story / plot / character development.
2.5/5 !!!
to start, i think if you want a quick read, something you can easily digest, and something that has a happy ending, this is totally a good palate cleanser book. it also does have sm*t in it if you’re looking for that!! we are following meredith and evan through this story through years of being star crossed lovers (ish) and i honestly loved the storyline (although quite predictable for the most part) because it was just a decent romance to get me out of a slump! good characters and i think evan is just a sweetheart and is a patient and understanding man that was perfect for mer because she truly needed that security after her childhood - and despite evan’s complicated life, he persevered. it really made me feel for them, and this book storyline overall i really enjoyed.
all this to say, the writing itself felt quite juvenile at times and just weird at others. i’m not the kind of person who likes the phrase “daddy” or too much intense talking during sm*t scenes and there was so much of that and it kinda rubbed me the wrong way ngl. idk it was like the non sex scenes were written storyline well, writing style was either too descriptive in the wrong areas or under descriptive in others, and the sentence structure just wasn’t aligned with my taste (but nonetheless it made for a cute romance!!!), and the sex scenes feeling too weirdly intimate with the phrasing but the rest of the book feeling like a YA novel storyline just confused me while i was reading.
i wouldn’t read it again but i do think this book had a good storyline that i enjoyed reading during my travels because it allowed me to read something quite quickly because i was invested (even tho we can kinda predict a happy ending hehe) all while i was very busy during my day!!
i was traveling a LOT but honestly coulda finished this book in a day but i was so limited on time so it took me way longer than it normally would have - quick & cute read overall, just not my writing style but i did enjoy majority of the story / plot / character development.
2.5/5 !!!
June 22, 2026
Wow, I feel like I hate read my way through this book.
3.5 ⭐️
I wanted to completely love this book but I couldn't. I found so many faults within it that overshadowed the good moments.
Meredith and Evan's story was cute but felt unbelievable at times. I suppose that's my fault for reading their story first. I felt like I was dropped in the middle of their love story and was told they were in love rather than shown. They cited sweet quotes and described feelings of utter loss but every sweet moment they spent together lasted five minutes before they started shoving their tongue down each others' throats.
Every sweet moment they had ended up in sex and their love felt like lust. I understand that was their initial agreement to be fuck buddies, but they took it far too literal. They constantly had sex and no real moments that built on their connection. That was annoying and underwhelming.
Meredith annoyed me with constantly pushing Evan away. I understand her concerns regarding building a life together and discarding of the one she built but she never truly took the initiative to understand Evan's point of view. She seemed hell-bent on misunderstanding him. He never asked her to give up her life but simply for him to be a part of hers. Instead of trying to make it work and compromise she hated every talk of it and was selfish. She herself admitted that but it was annoying to witness.
I do believe they were in love with each other but I would preferred to see the moments they were in love rather than them having sex all the time. They do share moments like these later on in the book which makes their story more believable. However, I wish we got to see more of them and their character development. That bleeds over into another issue I came across which were their ages. Their choices didn't reflect their ages at all and when the ages were revealed I was so shock and disappointing.
Needless to say, this book wasn't my favorite but there was potential.
3.5 ⭐️
I wanted to completely love this book but I couldn't. I found so many faults within it that overshadowed the good moments.
Meredith and Evan's story was cute but felt unbelievable at times. I suppose that's my fault for reading their story first. I felt like I was dropped in the middle of their love story and was told they were in love rather than shown. They cited sweet quotes and described feelings of utter loss but every sweet moment they spent together lasted five minutes before they started shoving their tongue down each others' throats.
Every sweet moment they had ended up in sex and their love felt like lust. I understand that was their initial agreement to be fuck buddies, but they took it far too literal. They constantly had sex and no real moments that built on their connection. That was annoying and underwhelming.
Meredith annoyed me with constantly pushing Evan away. I understand her concerns regarding building a life together and discarding of the one she built but she never truly took the initiative to understand Evan's point of view. She seemed hell-bent on misunderstanding him. He never asked her to give up her life but simply for him to be a part of hers. Instead of trying to make it work and compromise she hated every talk of it and was selfish. She herself admitted that but it was annoying to witness.
I do believe they were in love with each other but I would preferred to see the moments they were in love rather than them having sex all the time. They do share moments like these later on in the book which makes their story more believable. However, I wish we got to see more of them and their character development. That bleeds over into another issue I came across which were their ages. Their choices didn't reflect their ages at all and when the ages were revealed I was so shock and disappointing.
Needless to say, this book wasn't my favorite but there was potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So, I’m an ARC reader, and first of all, I’d like to thank the author and publisher for sending me a copy of this book.
Now, with that said, here’s my honest opinion.
Do you need to read the previous books for context? Absolutely. This book starts quite abruptly if you haven’t read the earlier installments, and you’ll likely find yourself missing important context about the characters and their relationship. Since I hadn’t read the previous books, this was very much my first impression.
Am I usually drawn to older protagonists? Not really. I generally prefer characters closer to my age because they’re easier to relate to. That being said, Evan was an absolute heartthrob in my head.
Now, onto the story.
Imagine if Every Summer After and The Summer I Turned Pretty had a child…that would be this book. Not because there’s a brother trope involved, but because of the indecisive female lead. Meredith wants everything, yet she never seems to know exactly what she wants. She spends much of the book going back and forth on her decisions, which became frustrating at times.
She is so determined not to become someone she has grown to despise that she practically convinces herself it’s worth throwing away her only chance at happiness. And I say this because the book spends more time showing the main characters together than explaining why Meredith is the way she is.
Evan, on the other hand, knows exactly what he wants. He wants a future with Meredith and is willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Meredith seems to want him too, yet she’d rather see him with anyone else than commit to him herself and somehow she can’t let him go either.
Okay, I know that sounds confusing.
In the end, I’d call this a decent read. It’s a solid 3-star book for me, largely because Evan is such a likeable character and because Meredith is a female lead who genuinely enjoys her career, which was refreshing to see. While I felt the plot and character development were fairly limited, it’s still an entertaining, quick read that many romance readers will enjoy.
Now, with that said, here’s my honest opinion.
Do you need to read the previous books for context? Absolutely. This book starts quite abruptly if you haven’t read the earlier installments, and you’ll likely find yourself missing important context about the characters and their relationship. Since I hadn’t read the previous books, this was very much my first impression.
Am I usually drawn to older protagonists? Not really. I generally prefer characters closer to my age because they’re easier to relate to. That being said, Evan was an absolute heartthrob in my head.
Now, onto the story.
Imagine if Every Summer After and The Summer I Turned Pretty had a child…that would be this book. Not because there’s a brother trope involved, but because of the indecisive female lead. Meredith wants everything, yet she never seems to know exactly what she wants. She spends much of the book going back and forth on her decisions, which became frustrating at times.
She is so determined not to become someone she has grown to despise that she practically convinces herself it’s worth throwing away her only chance at happiness. And I say this because the book spends more time showing the main characters together than explaining why Meredith is the way she is.
Evan, on the other hand, knows exactly what he wants. He wants a future with Meredith and is willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Meredith seems to want him too, yet she’d rather see him with anyone else than commit to him herself and somehow she can’t let him go either.
Okay, I know that sounds confusing.
In the end, I’d call this a decent read. It’s a solid 3-star book for me, largely because Evan is such a likeable character and because Meredith is a female lead who genuinely enjoys her career, which was refreshing to see. While I felt the plot and character development were fairly limited, it’s still an entertaining, quick read that many romance readers will enjoy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Never Will I Forever is one of those stories that sneaks up on you. You think you’re settling in for a romance, and then suddenly you’re carrying these characters around with you while you’re folding laundry, driving to work, and trying to explain to your family why you’re emotionally unavailable for the next 48 business hours.
Jillian Marie has a way of writing characters that feel painfully real. Their flaws aren’t manufactured for drama. Their hurts aren’t exaggerated. Their love isn’t perfect. It’s messy, complicated, frustrating, beautiful, and exactly the kind of love story I find myself gravitating toward.
The emotional depth in this book was what got me. The longing. The tension. The moments where someone says one thing but you can feel a thousand unsaid words sitting underneath it. Those are my favorite kinds of stories—the ones where the emotional connection hits harder than any grand gesture ever could.
And can we talk about the way this book made me feel? Did I laugh? Yes, some LOLs and some kicking my feet giggles! Did I smile like an idiot? Also yes. Did I have moments where I needed to set the book down and collect myself? Absolutely.
This wasn’t just a romance. It was a story about healing, choosing love even when it’s hard, and learning that forever doesn’t always look the way we imagined it would.
By the final chapter, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I wanted one more chapter. Then another. Then maybe an epilogue, a bonus epilogue, and a yearly life update until we’re all old and gray.
If you love:
Emotional romances
Character-driven stories
Heartache with hope woven through it
The kind of chemistry that makes you kick your feet and grin
Then this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I didn’t just read this story—I lived in it for a while. And leaving it felt a little like saying goodbye to friends.
Spice warning: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jillian Marie has a way of writing characters that feel painfully real. Their flaws aren’t manufactured for drama. Their hurts aren’t exaggerated. Their love isn’t perfect. It’s messy, complicated, frustrating, beautiful, and exactly the kind of love story I find myself gravitating toward.
The emotional depth in this book was what got me. The longing. The tension. The moments where someone says one thing but you can feel a thousand unsaid words sitting underneath it. Those are my favorite kinds of stories—the ones where the emotional connection hits harder than any grand gesture ever could.
And can we talk about the way this book made me feel? Did I laugh? Yes, some LOLs and some kicking my feet giggles! Did I smile like an idiot? Also yes. Did I have moments where I needed to set the book down and collect myself? Absolutely.
This wasn’t just a romance. It was a story about healing, choosing love even when it’s hard, and learning that forever doesn’t always look the way we imagined it would.
By the final chapter, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I wanted one more chapter. Then another. Then maybe an epilogue, a bonus epilogue, and a yearly life update until we’re all old and gray.
If you love:
Emotional romances
Character-driven stories
Heartache with hope woven through it
The kind of chemistry that makes you kick your feet and grin
Then this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I didn’t just read this story—I lived in it for a while. And leaving it felt a little like saying goodbye to friends.
Spice warning: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 4, 2026
3⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This was a fun summer romance with plenty of chemistry, beachy vibes, and some seriously spicy scenes. Evan completely stole the show for me—he's the ultimate green flag. Kind, patient, supportive, and absolutely devoted to Meredith. Him and his dog, Bear had my whole heart, and I was rooting for their happy ending from the very beginning.
Meredith, on the other hand... really annoyed me. I understood her fears around commitment, but she spent so much time pushing Evan away instead of trying meet him halfway. It was frustrating to watch.
Considering they started as friends with benefits, it made sense at first, but I wanted more meaningful moments that showed their relationship growing.
Even with those frustrations, this was still an enjoyable, easy read with great summer vibes, a swoon-worthy surfer hero, plenty of spice, and a sweet HEA. Evan definitely made this book worth reading.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Contemporary Romance
➳❥ Friends With Benefits
➳❥ He Falls First
➳❥ Photographer x Surfer
➳❥ Long Distance
➳❥ Second Chance
➳❥ Beach Vibes
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“And somewhere in that stillness, she showed up again. Meredith. It wasn't about wanting her at that moment. It was the way her name seemed to live in every calm space I found. No matter how far out I paddled, the ocean always had a way of carrying her back to me.”
“Her chaos felt like life happening.”
“Loving her was the kind of addiction no rehab could fix. And I'd just let myself take another hit.”
“I don't know how to let you go.”
“Somehow, even with everything quiet around me, she was the loudest thing in my world.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Never Will I Forever was the book I had been waiting for since meeting Meredith and Evan in the first two books and this was my favorite book in the series. Jillian Marie’s writing just gets better and better. Knowing how much Evan cared for her from the beginning made watching him get his heart broken again and again so hard, but it also made their story that much more rewarding.
I connected with Meredith more than I expected. Her tendency to keep people at arm’s length out of fear of losing them felt very real. She built a life for herself in New York that looked exciting and carefree on the outside, but underneath it all she was carrying a lot of fear and uncertainty.
Evan was everything I wanted him to be. Patient, loyal, and completely devoted, he never tried to force Meredith into something she wasn’t ready for. He loved her through every setback and gave her the space she needed to figure things out for herself. Their chemistry jumped off the page, and seeing them finally get their chance at a happily ever after made the wait worth it.
I also loved the relationship between Meredith and Natalie. No matter what was happening, they always showed up for each other, and their sisterly bond added so much heart to the story. And as a dog lover, I couldn’t get enough of Evan and Bear. Every scene with them together was adorable.
More than anything, this book is a reminder that sometimes the hardest thing to do is take a chance on happiness. Fear can keep you stuck, but eventually you have to decide whether you’re willing to risk getting hurt for something that could be incredible. Evan and Meredith’s journey was emotional, frustrating at times, and ultimately so worth it.
I am so grateful to have been given an ARC of this book and more than happy to leave a glowing review because it deserves all the 5⭐️ in my eyes.
I connected with Meredith more than I expected. Her tendency to keep people at arm’s length out of fear of losing them felt very real. She built a life for herself in New York that looked exciting and carefree on the outside, but underneath it all she was carrying a lot of fear and uncertainty.
Evan was everything I wanted him to be. Patient, loyal, and completely devoted, he never tried to force Meredith into something she wasn’t ready for. He loved her through every setback and gave her the space she needed to figure things out for herself. Their chemistry jumped off the page, and seeing them finally get their chance at a happily ever after made the wait worth it.
I also loved the relationship between Meredith and Natalie. No matter what was happening, they always showed up for each other, and their sisterly bond added so much heart to the story. And as a dog lover, I couldn’t get enough of Evan and Bear. Every scene with them together was adorable.
More than anything, this book is a reminder that sometimes the hardest thing to do is take a chance on happiness. Fear can keep you stuck, but eventually you have to decide whether you’re willing to risk getting hurt for something that could be incredible. Evan and Meredith’s journey was emotional, frustrating at times, and ultimately so worth it.
I am so grateful to have been given an ARC of this book and more than happy to leave a glowing review because it deserves all the 5⭐️ in my eyes.
June 12, 2026
I was so excited to be sent an ARC of this book and it did not disappoint!
A perfect summer read, this book explores a couple who is obviously meant to be together but can’t seem to make it work. Meredith is a successful photographer who has built her life in NYC and Evan is a professional surfer in California, and with neither one willing to give up their career and/or location, navigating a relationship has not been particularly easy for them. This novel explores just how much (or how little) you’re willing to sacrifice for the one you love.
Evan was a great MMC, thoughtful, devoted, obsessed, and handsome (which is a huge plus). His downside for me was that he wanted Meredith to make all the sacrifices without even discussing the possibility of him giving up his career and relocating. We’re out of the era where women need to do all the sacrificing. Regardless, he was fun to read and I thought he was perfect for Meredith.
Meredith was so fun as our FMC, a bit of a hot mess, but what girl isn’t?? She’s figuring life out and she’s afraid of commitment, loves Evan but doesn’t know how to show it or what to do with it, and is so proud of what she’s made for herself in NYC she’s not willing to give it up so easy. She could be annoying at times but she was REAL. Super relatable gal.
I must admit, I typically HATE a surprise pregnancy trope. It just feels forced, especially when the woman has repeatedly said that she doesn’t want kids. With that being said, I think it was tastefully done in this book (if it had to be done) and definitely not a deal breaker.
Overall, a great summer read. If you love angst, yearning, and JUST GET TOGETHER ALREADY romances, you’ll love this one!!
Thanks again to Jillian Marie and her team for including me in this round of ARCS🫶
A perfect summer read, this book explores a couple who is obviously meant to be together but can’t seem to make it work. Meredith is a successful photographer who has built her life in NYC and Evan is a professional surfer in California, and with neither one willing to give up their career and/or location, navigating a relationship has not been particularly easy for them. This novel explores just how much (or how little) you’re willing to sacrifice for the one you love.
Evan was a great MMC, thoughtful, devoted, obsessed, and handsome (which is a huge plus). His downside for me was that he wanted Meredith to make all the sacrifices without even discussing the possibility of him giving up his career and relocating. We’re out of the era where women need to do all the sacrificing. Regardless, he was fun to read and I thought he was perfect for Meredith.
Meredith was so fun as our FMC, a bit of a hot mess, but what girl isn’t?? She’s figuring life out and she’s afraid of commitment, loves Evan but doesn’t know how to show it or what to do with it, and is so proud of what she’s made for herself in NYC she’s not willing to give it up so easy. She could be annoying at times but she was REAL. Super relatable gal.
I must admit, I typically HATE a surprise pregnancy trope. It just feels forced, especially when the woman has repeatedly said that she doesn’t want kids. With that being said, I think it was tastefully done in this book (if it had to be done) and definitely not a deal breaker.
Overall, a great summer read. If you love angst, yearning, and JUST GET TOGETHER ALREADY romances, you’ll love this one!!
Thanks again to Jillian Marie and her team for including me in this round of ARCS🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the third book in the series, but it can absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone. I actually went back and read the first two books to see if it changed my perspective, and while they do add some character growth and family history, nothing is so major that you need them to understand or enjoy this story. The connections simply provide a little extra depth to the relationships and dynamics.
What I loved most was how much healing takes place throughout the book; not just for the FMC, but for the MMC as well. They heal separately, they heal together, and they help each other heal. They put themselves in environments that encourage growth and make choices that push them outside their comfort zones.
The story explores questions like: When do you take the next step? How do you know it's the right choice? Do you let fear dictate your life, or do you choose to live intentionally?
While the romance can certainly be enjoyed at face value, the themes run much deeper. I found myself constantly inserting my own life into these moments of growth and self-reflection. More than once my brain was screaming, "GO GET SOME THERAPY!" 😂🤷♀️ But the characters eventually find their way, and watching that journey unfold was rewarding.
I've tried to think of ways to say more without spoiling the book, and honestly, it just doesn't feel possible.
So I'll leave you with this: if you enjoy stories centered around growth, family, healing, a little repetition (insanity, am I right? 😉 If you know, you know), and a whole lot of love, then this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily & honestly.
What I loved most was how much healing takes place throughout the book; not just for the FMC, but for the MMC as well. They heal separately, they heal together, and they help each other heal. They put themselves in environments that encourage growth and make choices that push them outside their comfort zones.
The story explores questions like: When do you take the next step? How do you know it's the right choice? Do you let fear dictate your life, or do you choose to live intentionally?
While the romance can certainly be enjoyed at face value, the themes run much deeper. I found myself constantly inserting my own life into these moments of growth and self-reflection. More than once my brain was screaming, "GO GET SOME THERAPY!" 😂🤷♀️ But the characters eventually find their way, and watching that journey unfold was rewarding.
I've tried to think of ways to say more without spoiling the book, and honestly, it just doesn't feel possible.
So I'll leave you with this: if you enjoy stories centered around growth, family, healing, a little repetition (insanity, am I right? 😉 If you know, you know), and a whole lot of love, then this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily & honestly.
June 19, 2026
I was hooked on Meredith and Evan's story from the first chapter and read through it with ease, in the best way! I loved Jillian's writing for each character and the words she chose to describe every scene. There was not a lot of repetition in word use making the full scene feel more rounded out. Small moments that were made to feel so much bigger, it truly felt like we were there with them. The banter, the longing, the hunger, and the risk all for love, I was flying through the pages.
Meredith and Evan are trying to figure out their relationship while living on opposite sides of the country, and oh my, my heart went out to them feeling it alongside with them. Did they sometimes make me mad with the decisions being made? Well yes of course I was talking to them and weirdly they couldn't hear me! There was a give from Evan and Take from Meredith trying desperately to find balance and harmony.
I love them and their story so much and what made it even better was the relationship that they have with Natalie (Meredith's sister) and Will (Evan's best friend, basically a brother) two amazing characters that support our main couple in the best way! I adore them. And I can't forget about Bear!! He is the sweetest little edition that pops in some of the chapters and I loved every second of it.
🌶️🌶️
This book does get spicy, if you're looking for a spicy summer on the beach and in the city make sure you add this to your tbr!!
Never Will I Forever is the third book in the Kind of Perfect series, it is a standalone that focuses on Meredith and Evan's story, but you better believe I am running to get my hands on books one and two!!
Meredith and Evan are trying to figure out their relationship while living on opposite sides of the country, and oh my, my heart went out to them feeling it alongside with them. Did they sometimes make me mad with the decisions being made? Well yes of course I was talking to them and weirdly they couldn't hear me! There was a give from Evan and Take from Meredith trying desperately to find balance and harmony.
I love them and their story so much and what made it even better was the relationship that they have with Natalie (Meredith's sister) and Will (Evan's best friend, basically a brother) two amazing characters that support our main couple in the best way! I adore them. And I can't forget about Bear!! He is the sweetest little edition that pops in some of the chapters and I loved every second of it.
🌶️🌶️
This book does get spicy, if you're looking for a spicy summer on the beach and in the city make sure you add this to your tbr!!
Never Will I Forever is the third book in the Kind of Perfect series, it is a standalone that focuses on Meredith and Evan's story, but you better believe I am running to get my hands on books one and two!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Never Will I Forever completely stole my heart. Jillian Marie has a beautiful way of writing romance that feels authentic, emotional, and impossible not to get invested in. From the very beginning, I found myself rooting for Meredith and Evan, even when they were doing everything they could to convince themselves this was only temporary.
The chemistry between them was effortless. Their connection felt natural, and every conversation, every stolen moment, and every ounce of tension made their relationship even more believable. I loved that this wasn't just a love story built on attraction. It was about two people slowly realizing that the walls they had carefully built around their hearts were no match for the feelings growing between them.
Evan was everything I love in a book boyfriend. He was caring, laid back, and completely swoon worthy. Meredith was strong, independent, and so easy to relate to. Watching them navigate the distance, family dynamics, and the fear of wanting something that was never supposed to happen made this story feel incredibly real.
This book gave me butterflies, made me smile, and had me completely invested until the very last page. It is the kind of romance that reminds you the best love stories are often the ones that catch you completely by surprise.
If you love heartfelt contemporary romance with unforgettable chemistry, emotional depth, and characters you'll be thinking about long after you finish, Never Will I Forever is one I cannot recommend enough. Jillian Marie has gained another fan, and I already can't wait to read more from her.
Never Will I Forever completely stole my heart. Jillian Marie has a beautiful way of writing romance that feels authentic, emotional, and impossible not to get invested in. From the very beginning, I found myself rooting for Meredith and Evan, even when they were doing everything they could to convince themselves this was only temporary.
The chemistry between them was effortless. Their connection felt natural, and every conversation, every stolen moment, and every ounce of tension made their relationship even more believable. I loved that this wasn't just a love story built on attraction. It was about two people slowly realizing that the walls they had carefully built around their hearts were no match for the feelings growing between them.
Evan was everything I love in a book boyfriend. He was caring, laid back, and completely swoon worthy. Meredith was strong, independent, and so easy to relate to. Watching them navigate the distance, family dynamics, and the fear of wanting something that was never supposed to happen made this story feel incredibly real.
This book gave me butterflies, made me smile, and had me completely invested until the very last page. It is the kind of romance that reminds you the best love stories are often the ones that catch you completely by surprise.
If you love heartfelt contemporary romance with unforgettable chemistry, emotional depth, and characters you'll be thinking about long after you finish, Never Will I Forever is one I cannot recommend enough. Jillian Marie has gained another fan, and I already can't wait to read more from her.
June 25, 2026
✨ HAPPY RELEASE DAY! ✨
This book is officially out in the world today!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Never Will I Forever completely stole my heart. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Meredith and Evan’s story and found myself rooting for them every step of the way.
What I loved most was how authentic their connection felt. Their chemistry was effortless and built through meaningful conversations, stolen moments, and a growing emotional bond that felt incredibly real. This wasn’t just a romance based on attraction. It was about two people discovering that the feelings they tried so hard to keep contained were impossible to ignore.
Evan was everything I want in a book boyfriend: kind, patient, laid-back, and so completely swoon worthy. Meredith was strong, independent, and very relatable. She made it easy to become invested in her journey. Watching them navigate long distance, family ties, and the fear of wanting something that was never supposed to happen made their love story even more compelling.
Jillian Marie delivers a beautiful contemporary romance filled with heart, emotion, and unforgettable chemistry. This book gave me butterflies, made me smile, and kept me completely invested until the very last page.
If you love heartfelt romance, emotional depth, and characters who feel like real people, Never Will I Forever is a must read. It’s the kind of love story that stays with you long after you turn the final page. 📖✨
Thank you @booksbyjillianmarie for an ARC of this gem. I’m so grateful 💛
#bookreview
#bookrecommendations
#bookcommunity
#bookstagram
#booksbooksbooks
This book is officially out in the world today!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Never Will I Forever completely stole my heart. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Meredith and Evan’s story and found myself rooting for them every step of the way.
What I loved most was how authentic their connection felt. Their chemistry was effortless and built through meaningful conversations, stolen moments, and a growing emotional bond that felt incredibly real. This wasn’t just a romance based on attraction. It was about two people discovering that the feelings they tried so hard to keep contained were impossible to ignore.
Evan was everything I want in a book boyfriend: kind, patient, laid-back, and so completely swoon worthy. Meredith was strong, independent, and very relatable. She made it easy to become invested in her journey. Watching them navigate long distance, family ties, and the fear of wanting something that was never supposed to happen made their love story even more compelling.
Jillian Marie delivers a beautiful contemporary romance filled with heart, emotion, and unforgettable chemistry. This book gave me butterflies, made me smile, and kept me completely invested until the very last page.
If you love heartfelt romance, emotional depth, and characters who feel like real people, Never Will I Forever is a must read. It’s the kind of love story that stays with you long after you turn the final page. 📖✨
Thank you @booksbyjillianmarie for an ARC of this gem. I’m so grateful 💛
#bookreview
#bookrecommendations
#bookcommunity
#bookstagram
#booksbooksbooks
June 25, 2026
REVIEW OF ADVANCED READER COPY RECEIVED FROM AUTHOR
Happy release day to Never Will I Forever by Jillian Marie! 🩵🌊
This is the third book in the series, but it can absolutely be read as a standalone!
Since I haven’t had the chance to read the first two books yet, I went into this one as a standalone. At first, I felt like the story jumped right into the plot, and it took me a minute to get my bearings. Thankfully, I caught on pretty quickly, and it didn’t take away from my overall reading experience 🫡
I really enjoyed this book, but I will say these characters are a TOXIC 😂 Meredith has a lot of unresolved baggage from her past that still impacts her every day, and poor Evan gets dragged along for the ride. Then again, I guess that’s what love will do to you 😭🩵
One of my favorite parts of this book was the supporting characters, Will and Natalie. Meredith and Evan are so lucky to have these people in their lives. From what I understand, the first two books follow their stories, and now I definitely want to go back and read them! ✨
The beach setting was right up my alley. If you’ve been here for a while, you know anything beach-related immediately gets bonus points from me ☀️🌊 The banter and the yearning between Meredith and Evan were so well done, and if those are tropes you love, I definitely think this one is worth checking out!
Also, just a heads up, this one has some spice! 🌶️ So consider yourself warned… or convinced to pick it up if that’s your thing 😂
Thank you so much, Jillian, for trusting me to be one of your ARC readers. It truly means so much, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to read and review your book! 🩵✨
June 24, 2026
✈️🌊✈️.5 and 🌶️🌶️ : keep in mind the star review is based off of MY interests!
Never Will I Forever is a very fast paced easy read. Perfect for the summer or a nice beach read/sitting by the pool.
I absolutely loved the side characters and their parts I’d the story make me want to read the first two books in her series. The ending… woahhhh! I was wondering how she was going to complete the book. 🧨
Evan and Meredith’s physical chemistry is off the charts! 📈 Their emotional stability and conversation about anything serious is completely out the window 💨. It seemed like the present narration was written in fast forward and the past was a medium pace, where the meat of the conversation happened for the first half of the book.
The narration was more about the characters actions and less about conversations 💬 and character building between the characters. There was some repetition 🔂 throughout.
I was more invested further into the book when Meredith and Evan were actually attempting to invest in one another. 💙💙 I really liked the surfer and photographer story. It really made the costal issues come to life 🛟.
Although this wasn’t my favorite read by Jillian, it will be perfect for someone!
Tropes:
🔥Friends with Benefits
🐈⬛ Black Cat X Golden Retriever
👲 Reformed Bachelor
📸 BiCostal Setting
🌊 Surfer X Photographer
💙 He Falls First
⏱️ MCs in their 30s & 40s
I am voluntarily leaving this review and all thoughts are my own!
Lucky enough to be on Jillian’s street team! Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Never Will I Forever is a very fast paced easy read. Perfect for the summer or a nice beach read/sitting by the pool.
I absolutely loved the side characters and their parts I’d the story make me want to read the first two books in her series. The ending… woahhhh! I was wondering how she was going to complete the book. 🧨
Evan and Meredith’s physical chemistry is off the charts! 📈 Their emotional stability and conversation about anything serious is completely out the window 💨. It seemed like the present narration was written in fast forward and the past was a medium pace, where the meat of the conversation happened for the first half of the book.
The narration was more about the characters actions and less about conversations 💬 and character building between the characters. There was some repetition 🔂 throughout.
I was more invested further into the book when Meredith and Evan were actually attempting to invest in one another. 💙💙 I really liked the surfer and photographer story. It really made the costal issues come to life 🛟.
Although this wasn’t my favorite read by Jillian, it will be perfect for someone!
Tropes:
🔥Friends with Benefits
🐈⬛ Black Cat X Golden Retriever
👲 Reformed Bachelor
📸 BiCostal Setting
🌊 Surfer X Photographer
💙 He Falls First
⏱️ MCs in their 30s & 40s
I am voluntarily leaving this review and all thoughts are my own!
Lucky enough to be on Jillian’s street team! Thank you so much for the opportunity!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Never Will I Forever by Jillian Marie was such a wonderful addition to this series, and I was so happy to finally get Meredith and Evan's story.
After meeting Meredith in the previous books as Natalie's sister, I was excited to learn more about her, and this book did not disappoint. Meredith and Evan come from completely different worlds—Meredith is a successful photographer living in Manhattan, while Evan enjoys the laid-back lifestyle of Southern California running a surf school. Despite the distance and complications surrounding their connection, their chemistry was immediate and impossible to ignore.
What starts as something that is meant to be simple quickly becomes so much more, and I loved watching their relationship develop. Their connection felt genuine, emotional, and believable, making it impossible not to root for them throughout the story.
One of my favourite things about this book was seeing how their relationship evolved as they tried to navigate feelings neither of them expected. The emotions, tension, and romance were beautifully written and kept me invested from beginning to end.
I also loved being back with familiar characters while getting a fresh perspective through Meredith and Evan's journey. Jillian Marie has once again created characters that are easy to connect with and a romance that keeps you turning the pages.
If you've been following this series, this is definitely a book you won't want to miss.
Never Will I Forever by Jillian Marie was such a wonderful addition to this series, and I was so happy to finally get Meredith and Evan's story.
After meeting Meredith in the previous books as Natalie's sister, I was excited to learn more about her, and this book did not disappoint. Meredith and Evan come from completely different worlds—Meredith is a successful photographer living in Manhattan, while Evan enjoys the laid-back lifestyle of Southern California running a surf school. Despite the distance and complications surrounding their connection, their chemistry was immediate and impossible to ignore.
What starts as something that is meant to be simple quickly becomes so much more, and I loved watching their relationship develop. Their connection felt genuine, emotional, and believable, making it impossible not to root for them throughout the story.
One of my favourite things about this book was seeing how their relationship evolved as they tried to navigate feelings neither of them expected. The emotions, tension, and romance were beautifully written and kept me invested from beginning to end.
I also loved being back with familiar characters while getting a fresh perspective through Meredith and Evan's journey. Jillian Marie has once again created characters that are easy to connect with and a romance that keeps you turning the pages.
If you've been following this series, this is definitely a book you won't want to miss.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all thank you to Jillian Marie and her team for letting me be part of her ARC team for this book.
I went into this story after reading the first two books in the series and the difference in the story and MCs is there from the start which you don’t always get to see in other interconnected series with characters personalities. Also beware of the spice 👀 (ps. For some it might feel like a lot of it, but I think it fit the story the way it needed to for their journey)
While this book is a standalone, the MCs story truly starts in the first two books and I think that helps give an even wider perspective to their story both as a couple and as individuals.
Our FMC can be quite frustrating and annoying with the back and forth, however, I think the purpose of the story just like with the first two books, is that you need to step away from your own preconceived notions and how you would react in a situation and try to truly picture the trauma and events that shape people to be the way they are. The way Jillian shows us how two sisters who grew up the exact same way handled their trauma and emotions completely different is the perfect example that everyone handles things differently.
I loved the chemistry and connection of the MCs and I think the story unfolded exactly the way it needed to for them to get the happy ending that worked for their characters journey.
I truly loved this story and I feel everyone should definitely give it a shot too.
I went into this story after reading the first two books in the series and the difference in the story and MCs is there from the start which you don’t always get to see in other interconnected series with characters personalities. Also beware of the spice 👀 (ps. For some it might feel like a lot of it, but I think it fit the story the way it needed to for their journey)
While this book is a standalone, the MCs story truly starts in the first two books and I think that helps give an even wider perspective to their story both as a couple and as individuals.
Our FMC can be quite frustrating and annoying with the back and forth, however, I think the purpose of the story just like with the first two books, is that you need to step away from your own preconceived notions and how you would react in a situation and try to truly picture the trauma and events that shape people to be the way they are. The way Jillian shows us how two sisters who grew up the exact same way handled their trauma and emotions completely different is the perfect example that everyone handles things differently.
I loved the chemistry and connection of the MCs and I think the story unfolded exactly the way it needed to for them to get the happy ending that worked for their characters journey.
I truly loved this story and I feel everyone should definitely give it a shot too.
July 2, 2026
This book is all the summer vibes and an interesting take on a real topic we don’t get often from a FMC pov. If you like kandi steiners love letter to whiskey then this is giving similar vibes you’ll fall for.
The FMC Meredith is an independent and motivated woman. She is living her life, on her terms, and still trying to heal from a traumatic childhood. She has her sister, but even though they are related they both have different opinions on relationships and life goals. Meredith isn’t about the family life and she is putting in the hard work for her career and her goals. She has never wanted more than a fling, and easy time, that is all fine and happy until she has Evan crash into her orbit. She has lots of changing she has to work through if she is going to change what she see as her entire identity for someone.
Evan is the biggest green flag you’ll meet. This man and his dog bear are just absolutely show stealing for this book. I loved these two so much. And was rooting for the happy ending they both deserved. Evan is kind, sweet, care taker in his bones, and undeniably head over heels for Meredith. He will do anything for her…. Anything 🥺 his heart made me tear up and just want to reach out and give him a hug.
These two characters go through a lot. Many ups and downs (NO CHEATING), difference of opinions, and learning to see things differently. It’s a long road for them but a road they have to take. And in the end they find their place ❤️
The FMC Meredith is an independent and motivated woman. She is living her life, on her terms, and still trying to heal from a traumatic childhood. She has her sister, but even though they are related they both have different opinions on relationships and life goals. Meredith isn’t about the family life and she is putting in the hard work for her career and her goals. She has never wanted more than a fling, and easy time, that is all fine and happy until she has Evan crash into her orbit. She has lots of changing she has to work through if she is going to change what she see as her entire identity for someone.
Evan is the biggest green flag you’ll meet. This man and his dog bear are just absolutely show stealing for this book. I loved these two so much. And was rooting for the happy ending they both deserved. Evan is kind, sweet, care taker in his bones, and undeniably head over heels for Meredith. He will do anything for her…. Anything 🥺 his heart made me tear up and just want to reach out and give him a hug.
These two characters go through a lot. Many ups and downs (NO CHEATING), difference of opinions, and learning to see things differently. It’s a long road for them but a road they have to take. And in the end they find their place ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.
Never Will I Forever completely blew me away right from the start, setting my expectations sky high. I mean, a second chapter that spicy? Heck yes, give me more!
From that explosive beginning, I was totally hooked. (Also, side note: I am so glad that freaking date with the doctor didn’t work out, lol).
But let’s talk about Meredith. I kind of haaaate her but also wanted to save her from herself? It was so frustrating watching her not want him, yet still make him miserable. Like, girl, leave him be! I literally wanted to grab Meredith and shake some sense into her. I was screaming internally: “Girlllllll, just open your eyes! You love him and you’ll figure it out and pleeeeease go to therapy!!!”
I absolutely loved how Evan felt everything so deeply, let his feelings be seen and heard, and was never ashamed of it. He is pure gold.
On top of the romance, the support system in this book was everything. The way Will and Natalie supported both of them through and through? Wow. Talk about having a real tribu. I loved every single part of that dynamic.
If you want a book that will make you laugh, cry, yell at the characters, and fan yourself from the heat, mark your calendars for June 25th!
Never Will I Forever completely blew me away right from the start, setting my expectations sky high. I mean, a second chapter that spicy? Heck yes, give me more!
From that explosive beginning, I was totally hooked. (Also, side note: I am so glad that freaking date with the doctor didn’t work out, lol).
But let’s talk about Meredith. I kind of haaaate her but also wanted to save her from herself? It was so frustrating watching her not want him, yet still make him miserable. Like, girl, leave him be! I literally wanted to grab Meredith and shake some sense into her. I was screaming internally: “Girlllllll, just open your eyes! You love him and you’ll figure it out and pleeeeease go to therapy!!!”
I absolutely loved how Evan felt everything so deeply, let his feelings be seen and heard, and was never ashamed of it. He is pure gold.
On top of the romance, the support system in this book was everything. The way Will and Natalie supported both of them through and through? Wow. Talk about having a real tribu. I loved every single part of that dynamic.
If you want a book that will make you laugh, cry, yell at the characters, and fan yourself from the heat, mark your calendars for June 25th!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 ⭐️
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance with a main character that you just want to shake and yell at to stop being scared but you still love them and understand their insecurities, then this is the book for you! I loved these characters and was rooting for their happy ending the entire book.
I just wanted to give Meredith a hug so badly and convince her that she deserves love and happiness, despite her insecurities from the lack of a healthy and loving relationship example from her parents. That lack of love between her parents made her believe that she was incapable of love, which then strained her relationship with Evan and made him miserable because he couldn’t have the relationship they both craved. Evan was beyond sweet and patient with Meredith, even when she may not have earned it. Their constant off and on fling was depressing, but definitely made the character growth more impactful.
This love story was messy, painful, raw, and devastating, but also light, fun, and sexy. It showed a more accurate representation of the struggle of a bi coastal relationship and I loved that.
Thank you to Jillian Marie for this ARC for an honest review!
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance with a main character that you just want to shake and yell at to stop being scared but you still love them and understand their insecurities, then this is the book for you! I loved these characters and was rooting for their happy ending the entire book.
I just wanted to give Meredith a hug so badly and convince her that she deserves love and happiness, despite her insecurities from the lack of a healthy and loving relationship example from her parents. That lack of love between her parents made her believe that she was incapable of love, which then strained her relationship with Evan and made him miserable because he couldn’t have the relationship they both craved. Evan was beyond sweet and patient with Meredith, even when she may not have earned it. Their constant off and on fling was depressing, but definitely made the character growth more impactful.
This love story was messy, painful, raw, and devastating, but also light, fun, and sexy. It showed a more accurate representation of the struggle of a bi coastal relationship and I loved that.
Thank you to Jillian Marie for this ARC for an honest review!
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