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Forever Blue
I broke the surface and gulped in air, running my hands over my face to push the water away. A raindrop splattered on my cheek. He did not rise. Seven more raindrops in quick succession splattered against my skin. And still, he did not rise. The heavens opened and rain fell like a sheet, blanketing me, cutting me off from the rest of the world.
I thought it was the end of everything.
But I was wrong.
Brothers, Ruben and Judah Mitchell, used to be close, but that was before they met Cara Armistead. Once she moved in next door, the brothers grew further and further apart until the tension between them led to an event which left one dead and the other branded by the aftermath.
One year later, after the death of her baby brother destroyed her family, Lennon Donnelly has moved back to her home town of Puruwai. While visiting the cemetery she finds a boy sitting on a gravestone, a boy with secrets in his past, but someone who finally sees her. Accused by the town as a killer, he reaches out to Lennon, but as their relationship deepens, the events of the year before present themselves in a way no one could have imagined.
In this compelling ya romantic mystery, Forever Blue tells of the intertwining relationships of Lennon, Ruben, Judah and Cara. Spanning over two years, Abby Wilder creates a story of intrigue and suspicion that will haunt you long after you turn the final page.
This story contains mild use of strong language and references to underage drinking and smoking.
I thought it was the end of everything.
But I was wrong.
Brothers, Ruben and Judah Mitchell, used to be close, but that was before they met Cara Armistead. Once she moved in next door, the brothers grew further and further apart until the tension between them led to an event which left one dead and the other branded by the aftermath.
One year later, after the death of her baby brother destroyed her family, Lennon Donnelly has moved back to her home town of Puruwai. While visiting the cemetery she finds a boy sitting on a gravestone, a boy with secrets in his past, but someone who finally sees her. Accused by the town as a killer, he reaches out to Lennon, but as their relationship deepens, the events of the year before present themselves in a way no one could have imagined.
In this compelling ya romantic mystery, Forever Blue tells of the intertwining relationships of Lennon, Ruben, Judah and Cara. Spanning over two years, Abby Wilder creates a story of intrigue and suspicion that will haunt you long after you turn the final page.
This story contains mild use of strong language and references to underage drinking and smoking.
311 pages, ebook
Published June 17, 2016
10 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Abby Wilder
5 books29 followersAbby grew up on a sheep farm at the bottom of the world.
A love of reading has remained constant in her life, and when it occurred to her that she couldn't imagine anything better than being a writer, she set out to achieve just that.
Girl Behind Glass, Boy in Uniform & Girl Beneath Stars are available now, and Forever Blue was released June 17th 2016
A love of reading has remained constant in her life, and when it occurred to her that she couldn't imagine anything better than being a writer, she set out to achieve just that.
Girl Behind Glass, Boy in Uniform & Girl Beneath Stars are available now, and Forever Blue was released June 17th 2016
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 15, 2016
Have you ever watched a horror film then straight after put something light and fun on the TV because the movie scared you? Forever Blue gave me similar feels. I read the last page and I knew I couldn't read anything which wasn't light and cute for a while. I was taken on a journey I didn't expect but very much loved. And at the end, I thought I had that figured out, too. I didn't. That got me the most.
Forever Blue tells the tale of brothers Judah and Ruben and how their lives went from okay to a very quick downwards spiral. People die and others accused. Once good friendships are now filled with hatred. And the truth got buried along with the dead. It's only when Lennon Donnelly arrives on the scene that the truth starts coming to light.
Forever Blue is devourable. Throughout the whole book it's like one big puzzle fitting together. It masterfully mixed romance and mystery and entices the reader deeper into the world. The characters were full of life, vulnerability and secrets. I felt love, excitement and was caught off balance tremendously at the end.
"He knew this was the end. He knew there was no other choice. And he didn't fight. He smiled sadly as the water rushed in through the open window"
It's a hauntingly beautiful tale of truth and sacrifice you won't want to miss out on any of it.
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2016...
Forever Blue tells the tale of brothers Judah and Ruben and how their lives went from okay to a very quick downwards spiral. People die and others accused. Once good friendships are now filled with hatred. And the truth got buried along with the dead. It's only when Lennon Donnelly arrives on the scene that the truth starts coming to light.
Forever Blue is devourable. Throughout the whole book it's like one big puzzle fitting together. It masterfully mixed romance and mystery and entices the reader deeper into the world. The characters were full of life, vulnerability and secrets. I felt love, excitement and was caught off balance tremendously at the end.
"He knew this was the end. He knew there was no other choice. And he didn't fight. He smiled sadly as the water rushed in through the open window"
It's a hauntingly beautiful tale of truth and sacrifice you won't want to miss out on any of it.
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2016...
June 14, 2016
One of the best books I've read this year.
See my full review on YA Books Central: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaindie...
See my full review on YA Books Central: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaindie...
Want to read
November 26, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/26/2017)! 💝
November 6, 2016
*I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Ever read a book and wonder, "Wow! What did I just read?" Well, that's what happened to me when I finished Forever Blue...and to be honest, I'm still not quite over it and was sad to see it end.
Forever Blue takes readers on an unexpected and emotional journey full of twists and turns as we seek answers to a multitude of questions along with the main character, Lennon. Relatively new to town, Lennon has been warned to steer clear of Judah, a fellow classmate accused of murdering his own brother. However, Lennon has a mind of her own and when they randomly meet, a bond forms between the pair. But things aren't always what they appear to be as both Lennon and we soon discover.
There's really not a whole lot more that I can say about the plot without spoiling some major developments, but I will say that you need to read this book. It is so unexpected and entertaining filled with emotion and surprising elements. The blurb/summary really doesn't do it justice, in my opinion.
The author uses flashbacks to help us get to know certain characters and understand their relationships as well as to help us discover the truth behind Judah and his brother's past. Piece by piece we get little bits of information that come together to form one heck of a story and ending. I never would have guessed where this story was taking us, but I enjoyed every minute of this crazy ride. I could not put it down and read it completely in one sitting.
And the characters! With each chapter I found myself only wanting to know more about their connections and relationships. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and wouldn't mind seeing more of them someday. Until then I'll have to console myself by reading more of Abby Wilder's other work.
Ever read a book and wonder, "Wow! What did I just read?" Well, that's what happened to me when I finished Forever Blue...and to be honest, I'm still not quite over it and was sad to see it end.
Forever Blue takes readers on an unexpected and emotional journey full of twists and turns as we seek answers to a multitude of questions along with the main character, Lennon. Relatively new to town, Lennon has been warned to steer clear of Judah, a fellow classmate accused of murdering his own brother. However, Lennon has a mind of her own and when they randomly meet, a bond forms between the pair. But things aren't always what they appear to be as both Lennon and we soon discover.
There's really not a whole lot more that I can say about the plot without spoiling some major developments, but I will say that you need to read this book. It is so unexpected and entertaining filled with emotion and surprising elements. The blurb/summary really doesn't do it justice, in my opinion.
The author uses flashbacks to help us get to know certain characters and understand their relationships as well as to help us discover the truth behind Judah and his brother's past. Piece by piece we get little bits of information that come together to form one heck of a story and ending. I never would have guessed where this story was taking us, but I enjoyed every minute of this crazy ride. I could not put it down and read it completely in one sitting.
And the characters! With each chapter I found myself only wanting to know more about their connections and relationships. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and wouldn't mind seeing more of them someday. Until then I'll have to console myself by reading more of Abby Wilder's other work.
June 8, 2024
Definitely not your average YA romance. Excellent work.
August 23, 2016
Readers' Favorite said, "It is a gorgeous mixture of mystery and romance that is both melancholic and elusive," which is rather good, because that was what I was going for. If they had said it was a bellyful of laughs, I might have been worried. Link to the full review below.
I gave this book five stars because Readers' Favorite did, and I wrote it and rather liked it.
I hope you do too.
Readers' Favorite review: www.readersfavorite.com/book-review/f...
I gave this book five stars because Readers' Favorite did, and I wrote it and rather liked it.
I hope you do too.
Readers' Favorite review: www.readersfavorite.com/book-review/f...
November 5, 2016
A week after finishing Forever Blue I'm still not sure how I feel about it, and that's the hallmark of good storytelling. I knew going in that there would be no happy endings. I can tell you that without spoiling anything because that's right there on the very first page. Readers know from the get-go it's not going to be a happily ever after kind of tale, but I still don't think I was fully prepared for the way it ended. Forever Blue is the story of Lennon, new to town after her parents split. She hangs out with her cousin who is completely opposite of Lennon. Lennon is wallflower material, her cousin is the life of the party, the girl everyone wants to be around. No one really notices Lennon or pays much attention to her until Judah. Somehow this tortured boy with a tragic past really sees her. The two begin a strange romance that only gets stranger as the past and the present collide.
Plot
The plot centers around the romance between Lennon and Judah and the mystery of what happened the year before. Judah knows what happened, but no one believes him, except Lennon. But as she learns more of the truth, she's shocked in a way she never dreamed possible and everything she thought she knew is turned upside down.
The author slowly reveals the backstory through multiple points of view, finally giving us what we want to know in the closing chapters. The pacing is a little slow at first, but it picks up in the middle and kept me guessing until the very end.
Characters
The characters are interesting, but one thing they lacked was a lot of differentiation. They were all dark, angry, tortured. It makes sense, they all lost someone, but with so many varying first-person POVs, it would have been nice to really delve deeper into each character and find those pieces that set them apart from the others. They all sounded a little too much alike.
What Didn't Work for Me
1. The ending. I'm still not sure what to make of it. Not everything was resolved and I'm left with just as many new questions as I am answers.
2. Multiple points of view. I understand why the author took this route and the concept works, but as I mentioned above, I would have liked more differentiation of the characters.
What I Enjoyed About Forever Blue
1. The ending. Yeah, I know, I loved it and I hated it. What can I say? It's an enigma which leaves me conflicted.
2. Lennon. She's loyal and generous, two outstanding qualities in a protagonist.
3. The plot. I loved the unusual twists on both the mystery and the romance plot lines.
4. Twins. As the mother of identical twin teenage boys, I found this part of the story particularly intriguing. Especially since the brothers in the story were so different and mine are so alike.
5. Symbolism. The author uses symbolism throughout in sometimes unique ways that really tied the story together with the themes so well.
Bottom Line
Forever Blue is a dark young adult romance with a paranormal twist, wrapped in a mystery.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Plot
The plot centers around the romance between Lennon and Judah and the mystery of what happened the year before. Judah knows what happened, but no one believes him, except Lennon. But as she learns more of the truth, she's shocked in a way she never dreamed possible and everything she thought she knew is turned upside down.
The author slowly reveals the backstory through multiple points of view, finally giving us what we want to know in the closing chapters. The pacing is a little slow at first, but it picks up in the middle and kept me guessing until the very end.
Characters
The characters are interesting, but one thing they lacked was a lot of differentiation. They were all dark, angry, tortured. It makes sense, they all lost someone, but with so many varying first-person POVs, it would have been nice to really delve deeper into each character and find those pieces that set them apart from the others. They all sounded a little too much alike.
What Didn't Work for Me
1. The ending. I'm still not sure what to make of it. Not everything was resolved and I'm left with just as many new questions as I am answers.
2. Multiple points of view. I understand why the author took this route and the concept works, but as I mentioned above, I would have liked more differentiation of the characters.
What I Enjoyed About Forever Blue
1. The ending. Yeah, I know, I loved it and I hated it. What can I say? It's an enigma which leaves me conflicted.
2. Lennon. She's loyal and generous, two outstanding qualities in a protagonist.
3. The plot. I loved the unusual twists on both the mystery and the romance plot lines.
4. Twins. As the mother of identical twin teenage boys, I found this part of the story particularly intriguing. Especially since the brothers in the story were so different and mine are so alike.
5. Symbolism. The author uses symbolism throughout in sometimes unique ways that really tied the story together with the themes so well.
Bottom Line
Forever Blue is a dark young adult romance with a paranormal twist, wrapped in a mystery.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2016
That was nuts. I didn't expect that ending at all!
October 5, 2017
There are probably no more visceral human emotions than anger, guilt, and shame. These are things that tragedy brings out in most people, in one form or another. In many cases, such feelings are unwarranted and undeserving; when someone close to you dies, it's human nature to think "What could I have done? If I'd done (such and such), maybe they wouldn't have died at all." Such feelings are chaotic, and overpowering, and absolutely necessary for the healing process.
Forever Blue tells the story of several teens and the turmoil they all suffer over a period of a just over a year. I don't want to give details out of fear that I'll spoil anything (which, if you're like me, hate reading review that do that), but suffice it to say, there's enough pain and heartache in these kids' lives to make your heart heavy and your eyes moist. Though they may be fictional characters, they feel so real, especially if you've known the pain of losing a loved one.
It took me a while to get over the way the book ended, which was most assuredly not what I expected. I congratulate Ms. Wilder for having the courage to end the book the way she did, despite my wishing it had ended differently.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of YA fiction. It's sweet and sad, tragic and triumphant, and will break your heart at least three times before it's done.
Forever Blue tells the story of several teens and the turmoil they all suffer over a period of a just over a year. I don't want to give details out of fear that I'll spoil anything (which, if you're like me, hate reading review that do that), but suffice it to say, there's enough pain and heartache in these kids' lives to make your heart heavy and your eyes moist. Though they may be fictional characters, they feel so real, especially if you've known the pain of losing a loved one.
It took me a while to get over the way the book ended, which was most assuredly not what I expected. I congratulate Ms. Wilder for having the courage to end the book the way she did, despite my wishing it had ended differently.
I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of YA fiction. It's sweet and sad, tragic and triumphant, and will break your heart at least three times before it's done.
February 5, 2017
Unusual intrigue.
This well-written story was compelling and intriguing. It is one of the best YA novels that I have read so far. This strange, yet gentle love story, kept me turning pages until its surprising end. Reminiscent of the unrequited love in Wuthering Heights, but modern and contemporary all the way.
This well-written story was compelling and intriguing. It is one of the best YA novels that I have read so far. This strange, yet gentle love story, kept me turning pages until its surprising end. Reminiscent of the unrequited love in Wuthering Heights, but modern and contemporary all the way.
January 7, 2018
Haunting
June 3, 2023
Suitably creepy ghost story for YA. Not sure it had to end that way, though.
November 4, 2016
I know it’s only been less than a day since I finished
Forever Blue
but gosh I really can’t stop thinking about that ending. But wait, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, shall we? Why don’t we start from the beginning?
4 stars
Forever Blue alternates between two timelines ― the present which is told through Lennon’s perspective and the past which switches between Ruben and Judah’s perspectives. Frankly, I found this annoying at times as after like three chapters of flashbacks, I could barely remember what happened last in the present timeline. But overall, the story was beautifully written. There were some dull parts but it was able to keep readers in suspense by slowly giving us pieces of the puzzle and unravelling the mystery secret by secret.
The focus of the story, surprisingly, isn’t on Lennon, but rather, on Ruben and Judah’s story. We first learn of rumours that two years ago, Judah killed a girl, who so happened to be Cara’s sister, and later on, his own brother. Despite all evidence pointing to him being the one to commit those crimes, the police couldn’t proof that he was actually guilty, so he never went to jail. But nothing in this book is as it seems. What really happened two years ago?
I loved almost every character in the main cast of this book, even if they made stupid decisions or were highly judgemental of others. They were unique, and some of them, complex. We have Judah, the misunderstood brother who is often compared to his high-achieving brother. He falls in love with Cara, who doesn’t care much about how she acts or what she wears. Unfortunately for him, Cara doesn’t return his feelings and chooses Ruben instead, the golden boy who was able to fool everyone but his own brother. Then finally, there’s Lennon, the averagely pretty girl who is often shadowed by her cousin’s presence, so when she meets a boy who finally sees her, she can’t help but fall in love with him.
There was this short excerpt at the start of the book, and it ended with these two lines:
When I finally arrived at that part 90% into the book, I was thinking, “We’ve come so far. What’s the worse that could happen?” Unknowingly, I had jinxed myself. I had prepped myself for heartbreak and tears, not for my heart to be ripped out and torned into pieces. My mind just went into shock for a while (“No this can not be happening.”), then the tears came (“Oh shit it really happened.”). While I want to know more about what happened to Lennon after the ending, it gave me some sort of closure. Like Lennon’s story has now come to an end and the story of another’s has just started, one we readers may never know of.
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4 stars
Forever Blue alternates between two timelines ― the present which is told through Lennon’s perspective and the past which switches between Ruben and Judah’s perspectives. Frankly, I found this annoying at times as after like three chapters of flashbacks, I could barely remember what happened last in the present timeline. But overall, the story was beautifully written. There were some dull parts but it was able to keep readers in suspense by slowly giving us pieces of the puzzle and unravelling the mystery secret by secret.
The focus of the story, surprisingly, isn’t on Lennon, but rather, on Ruben and Judah’s story. We first learn of rumours that two years ago, Judah killed a girl, who so happened to be Cara’s sister, and later on, his own brother. Despite all evidence pointing to him being the one to commit those crimes, the police couldn’t proof that he was actually guilty, so he never went to jail. But nothing in this book is as it seems. What really happened two years ago?
I loved almost every character in the main cast of this book, even if they made stupid decisions or were highly judgemental of others. They were unique, and some of them, complex. We have Judah, the misunderstood brother who is often compared to his high-achieving brother. He falls in love with Cara, who doesn’t care much about how she acts or what she wears. Unfortunately for him, Cara doesn’t return his feelings and chooses Ruben instead, the golden boy who was able to fool everyone but his own brother. Then finally, there’s Lennon, the averagely pretty girl who is often shadowed by her cousin’s presence, so when she meets a boy who finally sees her, she can’t help but fall in love with him.
There was this short excerpt at the start of the book, and it ended with these two lines:
I thought it was the end of everything. But I was wrong.
When I finally arrived at that part 90% into the book, I was thinking, “We’ve come so far. What’s the worse that could happen?” Unknowingly, I had jinxed myself. I had prepped myself for heartbreak and tears, not for my heart to be ripped out and torned into pieces. My mind just went into shock for a while (“No this can not be happening.”), then the tears came (“Oh shit it really happened.”). While I want to know more about what happened to Lennon after the ending, it gave me some sort of closure. Like Lennon’s story has now come to an end and the story of another’s has just started, one we readers may never know of.
I never thought it would end like this.
I never thought it would end at all.
But not all stories get a happy ending.
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November 1, 2016
Lennon feels alone and invisible, the only people she talks to is her popular cousin and her odd grandmother. She deals with her family drama the best she can, but while on an annual trip to the cemetery to visit the grave of her dead brother, Lennon sees a lonely boy. She strikes up a conversation with him and feels a connection that she has always been missing. Little does she know that the boy she is quickly becoming infatuated with is also the boy everyone thinks is a murderer. Can Lennon help to uncover the truth or is the truth what everyone already believes?
This book took me completely off guard. I can honestly say that I never saw what was coming; I was completely blindsided by the two big twists that the author threw at me. I will admit that I found the book to be a little slow and fairly depressing for the first 100 pages or so. But after a big reveal, the story became even more dark (if that is possible), yet complicated and engaging, so much so that I could not put it down because I needed to know what would happen next. This review will be shorter than normal since I don't want to inadvertently give anything away because the twists are part of the reason that I liked the book so much. This was such a mixed up story with some very sad, confused teens. The book was full of heartbreak for every character (nobody got off without some torment) and it was not an easy read when it came to subject matter, which dealt with dark topics like death, murder, suicide, depression and bullying.
The book alternates narration between Lennon in the present and Ruben and Judah during the previous year. The story is told from the three different perspectives and the two different time lines to create a complex unfolding of the truth a little by little until the reader is left holding nothing. I can't reiterate how much I was surprised by the story as well as how my heart was ripped out so easily. Lennon was a very quiet character, too quiet really and almost blank in personality, yet a very nice person regardless of almost not existing. Ruben was ruled by expectations, always having to please everyone and fearing the day he wouldn't. I do believe Judah was my favorite character though. He was a complete rude jerk but I appreciated his honesty, his willingness to do the right thing and the fact that what you saw is what you get. The dynamic between the three kept me on my toes and each time I was convinced I knew what would happen, I was wrong.
I still feel emotionally wrapped up in the story even though I finished the book days ago. This was my first book by this author but I would love to see what other tales she can spin to knock me off my axis and keep me thinking.
I received this title in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
This book took me completely off guard. I can honestly say that I never saw what was coming; I was completely blindsided by the two big twists that the author threw at me. I will admit that I found the book to be a little slow and fairly depressing for the first 100 pages or so. But after a big reveal, the story became even more dark (if that is possible), yet complicated and engaging, so much so that I could not put it down because I needed to know what would happen next. This review will be shorter than normal since I don't want to inadvertently give anything away because the twists are part of the reason that I liked the book so much. This was such a mixed up story with some very sad, confused teens. The book was full of heartbreak for every character (nobody got off without some torment) and it was not an easy read when it came to subject matter, which dealt with dark topics like death, murder, suicide, depression and bullying.
The book alternates narration between Lennon in the present and Ruben and Judah during the previous year. The story is told from the three different perspectives and the two different time lines to create a complex unfolding of the truth a little by little until the reader is left holding nothing. I can't reiterate how much I was surprised by the story as well as how my heart was ripped out so easily. Lennon was a very quiet character, too quiet really and almost blank in personality, yet a very nice person regardless of almost not existing. Ruben was ruled by expectations, always having to please everyone and fearing the day he wouldn't. I do believe Judah was my favorite character though. He was a complete rude jerk but I appreciated his honesty, his willingness to do the right thing and the fact that what you saw is what you get. The dynamic between the three kept me on my toes and each time I was convinced I knew what would happen, I was wrong.
I still feel emotionally wrapped up in the story even though I finished the book days ago. This was my first book by this author but I would love to see what other tales she can spin to knock me off my axis and keep me thinking.
I received this title in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
February 23, 2017
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
I generously received this ARC from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
Are you looking for a story full of twists and turns with an unforgettable ending? If so, then do I have the perfect book for you! Forever Blue by Abby Wilder fulfills just that and so much more. This was one of those books that once you begin reading, you can’t put it down until the very end. Although this book is a slightly longer then some of the ones I’ve recently read it took my only a little over two hours to finish.
This book follows the story of four teenagers, twin brothers Ruben and Judah, their friend Cara and Lennon (my favorite character and the main one, at least in my opinion). When the book first switched from Lennon’s POV (present day) to Ruben’s (flashback) I wasn't sure if I would like this type of structure, but I quickly discovered just how much I loved it! It took a little getting use to because it would switch (sometimes for too long) at a critical part in the present day and vice versa. I strongly recommend this extraordinary read from this extraordinary author! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
If you are looking for something to read this weekend, then consider picking up a copy of Forever Blue from Amazon today!
I generously received this ARC from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review...
Are you looking for a story full of twists and turns with an unforgettable ending? If so, then do I have the perfect book for you! Forever Blue by Abby Wilder fulfills just that and so much more. This was one of those books that once you begin reading, you can’t put it down until the very end. Although this book is a slightly longer then some of the ones I’ve recently read it took my only a little over two hours to finish.
This book follows the story of four teenagers, twin brothers Ruben and Judah, their friend Cara and Lennon (my favorite character and the main one, at least in my opinion). When the book first switched from Lennon’s POV (present day) to Ruben’s (flashback) I wasn't sure if I would like this type of structure, but I quickly discovered just how much I loved it! It took a little getting use to because it would switch (sometimes for too long) at a critical part in the present day and vice versa. I strongly recommend this extraordinary read from this extraordinary author! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
If you are looking for something to read this weekend, then consider picking up a copy of Forever Blue from Amazon today!
November 1, 2016
In Forever Blue, Abby Wilder slowly reveals the dramatic pasts of her lead characters and weaves an interconnection for them in the present day.
The families of the main characters, Lennon, Sienna, Cara, Rueben, and Judah are rather dysfunctional. Divorce, affairs, absentee parents, unrealistic expectations and demands make these teens turn to one another instead of to their families for answers. The typical bad teen choices lead not only to fatalities but to rumors, loss of friendship, and a buried truth.
I did not find the characters compelling, however, the haunting, supernatural story kept me engrossed in reading. Ms. Wilder’s use of symbolism is intriguing. Her questionable narrator leaves many questions unanswered until the end, which adds a great deal of suspense. When some questions are answered, the story becomes quite eerie, and the unexpected ending left me with chills.
Forever Blue is a melancholy tale that will haunt your thoughts long after you read the last word.
3.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Xpresso Book Tours for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
The families of the main characters, Lennon, Sienna, Cara, Rueben, and Judah are rather dysfunctional. Divorce, affairs, absentee parents, unrealistic expectations and demands make these teens turn to one another instead of to their families for answers. The typical bad teen choices lead not only to fatalities but to rumors, loss of friendship, and a buried truth.
I did not find the characters compelling, however, the haunting, supernatural story kept me engrossed in reading. Ms. Wilder’s use of symbolism is intriguing. Her questionable narrator leaves many questions unanswered until the end, which adds a great deal of suspense. When some questions are answered, the story becomes quite eerie, and the unexpected ending left me with chills.
Forever Blue is a melancholy tale that will haunt your thoughts long after you read the last word.
3.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Xpresso Book Tours for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
October 26, 2016
Though this book has some obvious paranormal aspects to it, and it's a YA (which I haven't read in some time), I still found that the characters were very real to me. The narrators and the time shifts were done in a way that I had no problem following along, and it was interesting to see the overall change in the characters as the story moved along. The symbolism and the repetitive nature of the themes were great, and for anyone that has read the book, Forever Blue couldn't have been a better title. The author dropped just enough clues to leave me questioning what really happened, without leaving so much to the imagination that I was scratching my head in confusion, but not giving enough away that I could predict everything, either. Though the ending didn't come as a total surprise, it was a twist that I didn't think most writers would take. Kudos to Abby Wilder for having the bravery to end it this way, and for having the gumption to stick with it. The ending was wrapped in a nice, neat little bow that left just enough of a creepy, disturbing factor behind that I couldn't help but admire. I highly recommend this to teens and adults.
November 9, 2016
WRITING STYLE:
This book is told in the first person spanning two different time periods. The first perspective is that of Lennon who is drawn into a puzzle that has spanned a year. The other perspectives are those of Judah and Ruben from one year ago when a horrific accident changed the course of their lives forever.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT:
Through the backstory of the boys characters and the unfolding of Lennons storyline the characters become more fleshed out and inner demons came to light.
THEMES:
Honesty: The consequences of lying and dishonesty are examined within this novel. The consequences being catastrophic.
The Bonds That Link People: The strenuous bonds that link individuals and the breaking of these bonds are an element within the book. A horrible incident tears apart bonds that appear unbreakable.
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
This book was full of twists that I was not expecting and had me hooked. I went into this book relatively blind and was pleasantly surprised by the direction the story took.
I still haven’t quite accepted the ending and it is still on my mind. It has left me mind-blown.
This book is told in the first person spanning two different time periods. The first perspective is that of Lennon who is drawn into a puzzle that has spanned a year. The other perspectives are those of Judah and Ruben from one year ago when a horrific accident changed the course of their lives forever.
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT:
Through the backstory of the boys characters and the unfolding of Lennons storyline the characters become more fleshed out and inner demons came to light.
THEMES:
Honesty: The consequences of lying and dishonesty are examined within this novel. The consequences being catastrophic.
The Bonds That Link People: The strenuous bonds that link individuals and the breaking of these bonds are an element within the book. A horrible incident tears apart bonds that appear unbreakable.
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
This book was full of twists that I was not expecting and had me hooked. I went into this book relatively blind and was pleasantly surprised by the direction the story took.
I still haven’t quite accepted the ending and it is still on my mind. It has left me mind-blown.
November 4, 2016
Full Review at http://kendralovesbooks.blogspot.com/...
Lennon met a boy, Judah, in a cemetery while visiting her little brother's grave site. Judah was also at the cemetery visiting his twin brother, Ruben's grave site. Her and Judah start hanging out and she starts finding out all kinds of secrets that Judah is hiding. There is also Cara, which is Ruben's girlfriend but Judah really likes her.
I cant say two much or it will give away all the twists in the book. You follow 4 characters throughout the book and there are a lot of flashbacks. I felt like the first 50 pages were slow and hard to get into, but once you get past that the book is really good and lots and lots of twists. It was definitely sad and heartbreaking. I felt for all the characters and what they had to go through.
I recommend this book, especially if you are into romance and a good mystery. The book definitely kept me guessing!!
I received a copy from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Lennon met a boy, Judah, in a cemetery while visiting her little brother's grave site. Judah was also at the cemetery visiting his twin brother, Ruben's grave site. Her and Judah start hanging out and she starts finding out all kinds of secrets that Judah is hiding. There is also Cara, which is Ruben's girlfriend but Judah really likes her.
I cant say two much or it will give away all the twists in the book. You follow 4 characters throughout the book and there are a lot of flashbacks. I felt like the first 50 pages were slow and hard to get into, but once you get past that the book is really good and lots and lots of twists. It was definitely sad and heartbreaking. I felt for all the characters and what they had to go through.
I recommend this book, especially if you are into romance and a good mystery. The book definitely kept me guessing!!
I received a copy from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2018
I was sent this book from Xpresso Book Tours to review!
This book was certainly....interesting. The whole book was shrouded in mystery and, while I was expecting an eerie contemporary, a whole new supernatural world was explored. I had a few issues with the book itself, (particularly the ending...) and was on the verge of giving it two-stars but, decided to give it the benefit of the doubt.The ending just ruined it a little for me.
The story was nicely complex- not overly- and the twists and turns kept me intrigued and interested to see what would happen next.
I would recommend this book if you're interested in realistic paranormal mysteries with a light romantic element.
Full review: https://forever-fictional.blogspot.co...
This book was certainly....interesting. The whole book was shrouded in mystery and, while I was expecting an eerie contemporary, a whole new supernatural world was explored. I had a few issues with the book itself, (particularly the ending...) and was on the verge of giving it two-stars but, decided to give it the benefit of the doubt.The ending just ruined it a little for me.
The story was nicely complex- not overly- and the twists and turns kept me intrigued and interested to see what would happen next.
I would recommend this book if you're interested in realistic paranormal mysteries with a light romantic element.
Full review: https://forever-fictional.blogspot.co...
December 13, 2016
This book is about 4 teenagers ... twin brothers Ruben and Judah, their friend Cara, and Lennon, who is new in town. About 1/3 way into the book there was a revelation and I thought this is not my kind of book. But by then, the characters had drawn me in and I had to find out what happened. I have never read this type of book before because I didn't think I would be interested. But I was wrong ... I really enjoyed this book! I did not see that ending coming, it caught me totally off guard. This is the kind of book that really makes you think. That is all I can say without giving the story away.
July 15, 2016
"Have you ever watched a horror film then straight after put something light and fun on the TV because the movie scared you? Forever Blue gave me similar feels. I read the last page and I knew I couldn't read anything which wasn't light and cute for a while. I was taken on a journey I didn't expect but very much loved. And at the end, I thought I had that figured out, too. I didn't. That got me the most."
A first paragraph teaser of my full review posted on Once upon a Twilight: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2016...
A first paragraph teaser of my full review posted on Once upon a Twilight: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2016...
October 25, 2016
I'm not a huge fan of YA but this book had me hooked from the very start.
Lennon is a teenage girl who has just moved to a new town. She hasn’t got many friends, her only one being her cousin Sienna and when she is caught in a tricky situation with her divorced parents, she meets Judah…or does she?
Abby paints a world so frighteningly real and yet it's PNR in a way. Such powerful characters, and a strong storyline has this book hitting my 5 star recommendation list.
This was the first book I have read from Abby, but I can see it will not be the last.
Lennon is a teenage girl who has just moved to a new town. She hasn’t got many friends, her only one being her cousin Sienna and when she is caught in a tricky situation with her divorced parents, she meets Judah…or does she?
Abby paints a world so frighteningly real and yet it's PNR in a way. Such powerful characters, and a strong storyline has this book hitting my 5 star recommendation list.
This was the first book I have read from Abby, but I can see it will not be the last.
June 16, 2016
A tale of melancholy, love and mystery. Abby Wilder is a true talent, one I am growing to love.
The pages of this story were quite haunting in their tellings, a teen romance unlike any I have ever read. I found myself getting pulled into the intrigue and secrets of this sad yet beautiful story. Very well told, quite surprising at times, a heart breaker for sure.
The pages of this story were quite haunting in their tellings, a teen romance unlike any I have ever read. I found myself getting pulled into the intrigue and secrets of this sad yet beautiful story. Very well told, quite surprising at times, a heart breaker for sure.
October 13, 2016
I loved this book and couldn't put it down. It's been a long time since I have read a book that I haven't been disappointed at the end because I had already figured it out. I certainly didn't figure out the ending of Forever Blue. I was so surprised that I had to go back and read it again, just to be sure I had read it correctly. Thoroughly recommend this book.
November 1, 2016
My Book Review- an moving YA novel beautifully written with great characters. This authors weaves this stories between time and characters as-Lennon,Reuben, Judah and Cara comes alive in this haunting story. This book is full of secrets that come to life in this story. A book you need to read even if you dont normally read YA romances. Lisa
ARC provided by author as part of blog tour
ARC provided by author as part of blog tour
September 15, 2016
Interesting read
This book really surprised me, I. Really didn't expect this book to make me think so much. Each page turn I was left analyzing what had just happened and question it.
This book really surprised me, I. Really didn't expect this book to make me think so much. Each page turn I was left analyzing what had just happened and question it.
September 17, 2016
I adored this book. Forever Blue is a masterfully written beautiful bittersweet love story that pulls you in and takes you under. It’s subtle with its complexities, dark in its undertone, yet all the while it manages to keep a perfectly sweet sense of innocence. It’s simply brilliant!
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