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The Foreseeable Future
Audrey's life has been planned out for her since she was born, and now she's supposed to attend Whedon College in the fall, where both of her parents work. But Audrey has a different plan in mind: She's not going to attend college at all. She's going to earn some money and move to Seattle, the city she's loved since she was a child. And the best way to earn that money is by working the night shift at the local nursing home.
Seth O'Malley works there, too, and a romance quickly blossoms between them. But things get complicated when Audrey saves the life of Cameron Suzuki, Seth's ex. A video of her performing CPR at the beach goes viral, and suddenly, Audrey's wanted for TV interviews and newspaper articles. And just when Audrey starts to love life at the nursing home--and life with Seth--Seattle comes knocking. Does she follow the path she set out for herself, even when it means leaving behind Seth and the cast of quirky patients she's come to care for? Or does she embrace a future with Seth--at least for the foreseeable future--at the cost of abandoning her dreams?
Seth O'Malley works there, too, and a romance quickly blossoms between them. But things get complicated when Audrey saves the life of Cameron Suzuki, Seth's ex. A video of her performing CPR at the beach goes viral, and suddenly, Audrey's wanted for TV interviews and newspaper articles. And just when Audrey starts to love life at the nursing home--and life with Seth--Seattle comes knocking. Does she follow the path she set out for herself, even when it means leaving behind Seth and the cast of quirky patients she's come to care for? Or does she embrace a future with Seth--at least for the foreseeable future--at the cost of abandoning her dreams?
380 pages, Hardcover
First published May 8, 2018
17 people are currently reading
695 people want to read
About the author
Emily Adrian
7 books203 followersEmily Adrian is the author of Seduction Theory, Daughterhood, The Second Season, and Everything Here Is Under Control, as well as two critically acclaimed novels for young adults. Her work has appeared in Granta, The Point, Joyland, EPOCH, Alta Journal, Los Angeles Review of Books, and The Millions. Originally from Portland, Oregon, Emily currently lives in New Haven, Connecticut.
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December 26, 2017Publisher: what are we thinking for 2018? Female empowerment, books centered around strong female characters?
Publisher: I know!
BLURB: “Does she follow the path she set out for herself, even when it means leaving behind Seth and the cast of quirky patients she's come to care for? Or does she embrace a future with Seth--at least for the foreseeable future--at the cost of abandoning her dreams?”
*let’s hear it for the boy plays*
Publisher: I know!
BLURB: “Does she follow the path she set out for herself, even when it means leaving behind Seth and the cast of quirky patients she's come to care for? Or does she embrace a future with Seth--at least for the foreseeable future--at the cost of abandoning her dreams?”
*let’s hear it for the boy plays*
September 21, 2018
I like to think of the book like this:
Girl has dream.
Girl has ambition and drive.
Girly meets boy.
Girl gives up everything for boy.
The end.
Girl has dream.
Girl has ambition and drive.
Girly meets boy.
Girl gives up everything for boy.
The end.
June 18, 2018
So this is a YA book, and I think if I were more YA and less A (going by the idea that YAs are not actually young As but are instead Ts, teens) I might have enjoyed it more. I LOVED THAT THE MAIN CHARACTER wasn't following the typical graduate-high-school-must-go-to-college path!!! So much. It's not for everyone, and that needs to be recognised. But I didn't see enough of her relationship with Seth developing, or really why it developed, to believe some of the later parts, and I felt like the ending was far too peg-in-hole. I wish I had seen more independence, and I expected that from the premise.
November 26, 2020
I believe this book would fall into the "new adult" fiction label- the protagonist is a mediocre student black sheep in a family of college professors who is about to finish high school, decides to forge her own path to employment, and falls in love. The storyline is kind of banal, but its a sweet modern romance/coming of age story that's actually modern enough for today's teens to like it. Three stars.
April 17, 2018
sjjsjs that was good. also the amount of diversity in this book was astounding thank you
August 1, 2018
***I work at a bookstore and received an arc from the publisher, my opinions are my own***
I loved Audrey. I loved how impulsive and contrary she could be (I too can be very contrary). I liked that she was smart and capable, but unsure of whether college was the right move for her.
Her romance with Seth was sweet, and they did seem to fit well, despite both of them having to deal with family issues.
The small beach town setting was perfect, but it was the nursing home and Tamora who stole the show- at least for me.
Possibly some spoilers ahead:
So Audrey is the daughter of two college professors, and it's assumed that she'll go to college, but Audrey doesn't even like school and had no clear career path she wants to pursue. She knows she's interested in moving to Seattle, but she's basically just drifting.
She goes to the local nursing home in hopes of securing a summer job there, only to be intrigued with the idea of becoming a cna (certified nursing assistant). She starts attending night classes while she's finishing high school, and for once she really seems to excel at learning because she's interested in it. Of course, Seth, a local boy she's known, but not really known, her whole life also works on the janitorial staff.
Then Audrey saves the life of a popular classmate (who happens to be one of Seth's exes) and a video of the event goes viral. Audrey isn't quite sure what to do with her newfound fame, but that isn't the only thing she's dealing with, as her family may or may not be falling apart, she's definitely falling for Seth, and she's considering not going to college at all.
My favorite storyline was definitely Tamora and Jackson Moon. Other than being a bookseller, I'm also a nurse assistant for a private home health company and found the nursing home setting to be pretty accurate. Unlike Audrey, who has lots of residents to care for, I get to work one on one with a client, sometimes for years. At one point I was kind of hoping that Audrey and Tamora would kind of ride off in the sunset, but I'm happy with the way both their storylines played out.
I loved a lot of the side characters- Sara and Elliot, Jake, Jackson Moon and Audrey's mom and dad, were fascinating, I just wanted more.
I'm grateful that Emily Adrian walked into my bookstore one weekend and mentioned her book, it's exactly the book I want to share with my reluctant reader niece who is also unsure of whether or not to attend college (right now she's setting her sights on becoming a flight attendant). There's not enough contemporary YA books out there that explore the idea of NOT going to college, despite the fact that there are lots of kids that can't afford it, aren't interested in it, or simply have no idea what they want to do. And while Audrey is unsure, she has friends and family members who do know what they want to study and are excited to attend college. It was lovely to see a character given some non-traditional choices.
I loved Audrey. I loved how impulsive and contrary she could be (I too can be very contrary). I liked that she was smart and capable, but unsure of whether college was the right move for her.
Her romance with Seth was sweet, and they did seem to fit well, despite both of them having to deal with family issues.
The small beach town setting was perfect, but it was the nursing home and Tamora who stole the show- at least for me.
Possibly some spoilers ahead:
So Audrey is the daughter of two college professors, and it's assumed that she'll go to college, but Audrey doesn't even like school and had no clear career path she wants to pursue. She knows she's interested in moving to Seattle, but she's basically just drifting.
She goes to the local nursing home in hopes of securing a summer job there, only to be intrigued with the idea of becoming a cna (certified nursing assistant). She starts attending night classes while she's finishing high school, and for once she really seems to excel at learning because she's interested in it. Of course, Seth, a local boy she's known, but not really known, her whole life also works on the janitorial staff.
Then Audrey saves the life of a popular classmate (who happens to be one of Seth's exes) and a video of the event goes viral. Audrey isn't quite sure what to do with her newfound fame, but that isn't the only thing she's dealing with, as her family may or may not be falling apart, she's definitely falling for Seth, and she's considering not going to college at all.
My favorite storyline was definitely Tamora and Jackson Moon. Other than being a bookseller, I'm also a nurse assistant for a private home health company and found the nursing home setting to be pretty accurate. Unlike Audrey, who has lots of residents to care for, I get to work one on one with a client, sometimes for years. At one point I was kind of hoping that Audrey and Tamora would kind of ride off in the sunset, but I'm happy with the way both their storylines played out.
I loved a lot of the side characters- Sara and Elliot, Jake, Jackson Moon and Audrey's mom and dad, were fascinating, I just wanted more.
I'm grateful that Emily Adrian walked into my bookstore one weekend and mentioned her book, it's exactly the book I want to share with my reluctant reader niece who is also unsure of whether or not to attend college (right now she's setting her sights on becoming a flight attendant). There's not enough contemporary YA books out there that explore the idea of NOT going to college, despite the fact that there are lots of kids that can't afford it, aren't interested in it, or simply have no idea what they want to do. And while Audrey is unsure, she has friends and family members who do know what they want to study and are excited to attend college. It was lovely to see a character given some non-traditional choices.
September 15, 2018
3.5/5
Well that was cute. Not something that was unforgettable, but I don't really have anything bad to say about it either. I love that it wasn't perfect and that everyone had problems. Ending was definitely interesting and I enjoyed it. I would have liked some sort of epilogue though.
Favorite quote: "I suspected I would love him, whoever he turned out to be." That embodies unconditional love.
Well that was cute. Not something that was unforgettable, but I don't really have anything bad to say about it either. I love that it wasn't perfect and that everyone had problems. Ending was definitely interesting and I enjoyed it. I would have liked some sort of epilogue though.
Favorite quote: "I suspected I would love him, whoever he turned out to be." That embodies unconditional love.
June 9, 2018
Emily Adrian's prose is cool, clear, refreshing and a little bit salty- just like the book's ocean setting. This is a Summer-It-All-Changed story at it's best, with new romance, family drama, a touch of stardom and adulthood on the horizon. The characters are well-drawn and feel familiar. Fans of Sarah Dessen, Deb Caletti and Nina LaCour will love Emily's work.
June 23, 2019
The Foreseeable Future by Emily Adrian is an enjoyable and entertaining "coming-of-age" story about Audrey Nelson who is definitely feeling conflicted about her plans for life after high school. Very realistic, including all of the "dysfunctional family" dramas, the "college is not for everyone" point of view, and the way impulsive and contrary Audrey approaches her dilemma.
A solid 3 1/2 star book elevated to 4 stars for the simple fact that I would be truly interested in reading a sequel about how Audrey and Seth get on in Seattle.
A solid 3 1/2 star book elevated to 4 stars for the simple fact that I would be truly interested in reading a sequel about how Audrey and Seth get on in Seattle.
August 19, 2018
Barely a 4 star but the ending felt a tad rushed and I was a little surprised by a decision made at the end that was def rushed and didn’t quite feel like it made sense.
I loved both Audrey and Seth. I’d love a future book featuring Cameron and Elliot.
I loved both Audrey and Seth. I’d love a future book featuring Cameron and Elliot.
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July 18, 2018I liked this quite a lot. I'd recommend to fellow Sarah Dessen fans... and I REALLY do not throw Sarah Dessen-readalikes around lightly!!
August 9, 2021
Rating: 5 Stars!! (Wish i could rate it 10 Stars!!)
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i wasnt sure what to expect even tho the cover intrigued me.
This book reminded me alot of Sara Dessen books meets Sara Shepherd Books all put into this book. (Those of you who are fans of both those authors know what im taking about)
The Characters were so interesting to read about and i loved how in depth Emily went into describing the characters backgrounds.
The Setting was so beautifully described which made me feel like i was really in Washington State while reading.
Overall a Phenomenal YA Book one of the best ive read in a very long time!! Can't wait to read more by Emily in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i wasnt sure what to expect even tho the cover intrigued me.
This book reminded me alot of Sara Dessen books meets Sara Shepherd Books all put into this book. (Those of you who are fans of both those authors know what im taking about)
The Characters were so interesting to read about and i loved how in depth Emily went into describing the characters backgrounds.
The Setting was so beautifully described which made me feel like i was really in Washington State while reading.
Overall a Phenomenal YA Book one of the best ive read in a very long time!! Can't wait to read more by Emily in the future!!
May 1, 2018
*Book provided by publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Seth and Audrey are the quintessential swoon-worthy contemporary couple in THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE. I absolutely adored them – think first love, excitement, and a future that is wide open.
The daughter of two established academics, Audrey’s parents assume she will attend local Whedon College and follow in their footsteps studying liberal arts. After spending an unimpressive 24 hours previewing college life which mostly includes partying, Audrey has a different plan. She spends her final weeks of high school taking night classes to earn her CNA credentials so she can work at Crescent Bay Retirement Home. Charming Seth is employed at the retirement home also as janitorial / kitchen staff and he and Audrey schedule their breaks together to get thru the long night shifts. It doesn’t take long for the chemistry to ignite and they become exclusive.
At a 4th of July get-together at the beach Audrey uses her newly honed CPR training to save a fellow classmate’s life who happens to be Seth’s ex-girlfriend. A video of the incident goes viral and Audrey becomes a local hero, giving interviews and making a name for herself. Just when she and Seth profess their love for each other, Audrey is offered a job in Seattle.
I found this story a breath of fresh air. So many young adults novels portray girls as helpless, anxiety ridden, depressed or with an eating disorder. Audrey is such a strong female lead. She’s ambitious and has a big heart. She’s also indecisive which is totally age appropriate and makes her so likeable. Best of all, she’s doesn’t let Seth derail her dreams. If you are a fan of YA contemporary romance you will love THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.
Seth and Audrey are the quintessential swoon-worthy contemporary couple in THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE. I absolutely adored them – think first love, excitement, and a future that is wide open.
The daughter of two established academics, Audrey’s parents assume she will attend local Whedon College and follow in their footsteps studying liberal arts. After spending an unimpressive 24 hours previewing college life which mostly includes partying, Audrey has a different plan. She spends her final weeks of high school taking night classes to earn her CNA credentials so she can work at Crescent Bay Retirement Home. Charming Seth is employed at the retirement home also as janitorial / kitchen staff and he and Audrey schedule their breaks together to get thru the long night shifts. It doesn’t take long for the chemistry to ignite and they become exclusive.
At a 4th of July get-together at the beach Audrey uses her newly honed CPR training to save a fellow classmate’s life who happens to be Seth’s ex-girlfriend. A video of the incident goes viral and Audrey becomes a local hero, giving interviews and making a name for herself. Just when she and Seth profess their love for each other, Audrey is offered a job in Seattle.
I found this story a breath of fresh air. So many young adults novels portray girls as helpless, anxiety ridden, depressed or with an eating disorder. Audrey is such a strong female lead. She’s ambitious and has a big heart. She’s also indecisive which is totally age appropriate and makes her so likeable. Best of all, she’s doesn’t let Seth derail her dreams. If you are a fan of YA contemporary romance you will love THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.
lost-interest
May 5, 2021| Reader Fox Blog |
I don't think this book takes a strong anti-college stance, but the fact that it goes in this direction bothers me. I imagine there is more of a focus on the romance than the main character's clear distaste for going to college. Even so, I have no interest in reading something that promotes, even mildly, those kinds of ideas. Sure, there are people out there who didn't go to college who do well for themselves and don't hurt society with their ignorance.
Unfortunately, those people are far and few between. The fact that this book takes an anti-college stance, even if it's just a mild one, makes me wonder what possible substance could exist within this novel. I don't read books solely for the purpose of seeing people get together. Though it can be a nice addition, I want more from the books I read.
Now, if this book involves the main character changing her mind and actually deciding to attend college, then I would very much change my mind on deciding not to read it. But, from all appearances, that doesn't seem to be the case so I'm removing it from my TBR.
| Reader Fox Links |
I don't think this book takes a strong anti-college stance, but the fact that it goes in this direction bothers me. I imagine there is more of a focus on the romance than the main character's clear distaste for going to college. Even so, I have no interest in reading something that promotes, even mildly, those kinds of ideas. Sure, there are people out there who didn't go to college who do well for themselves and don't hurt society with their ignorance.
Unfortunately, those people are far and few between. The fact that this book takes an anti-college stance, even if it's just a mild one, makes me wonder what possible substance could exist within this novel. I don't read books solely for the purpose of seeing people get together. Though it can be a nice addition, I want more from the books I read.
Now, if this book involves the main character changing her mind and actually deciding to attend college, then I would very much change my mind on deciding not to read it. But, from all appearances, that doesn't seem to be the case so I'm removing it from my TBR.
| Reader Fox Links |
August 12, 2019
This YA contemporary is about a girl named Audrey Nelson who is due to start her first semester at Whedon College in the fall, a place both her parents work. But as her high school senior year is coming to a close, Audrey has doubts about college being the right next step. She feels different within her family of scholars and wanting to set herself apart, applies for a job as a CNA at the retirement home where she works with her soon-to-be-boyfriend Seth O’Malley.
Audrey “saves” the life of a former classmate, Cameron Suzuki, and the video of her performing CPR goes viral and Audrey starts to feel like this is the change she needs and leads her to love her job. This causes some rifts with her family and now boyfriend Seth. And ultimately, she will have to make the of going to Seattle or stay in the place she has always known.
I had so many issues with the book but my biggest issue is the main character.
My initial expectations of the book stem from the cover and book blurb.
The reason that I picked up this book was that I believed this character had decided that she was not going to college and that decision will cause a rift with her academic parents and boyfriend who want her to stay in town and close to home. Okay. Now I read the book.
Page 3 says that someday she will leave Crescent Bay.
Page 29 she says that she isn’t like her family. They love school. She does not.
Page 31 she would give learning and school a second chance
Page 39 she says she is still going to Whedon even though she doesn’t like school.
Page 43 she decides to attend night school to be certified as a CNA and she would not quit it once school started.
Page 48 she mentions Seattle
Page 70 she starts her job at the retirement home.
Page 93 performs CPR, “saves” classmates life.
Page 110 Seth asks if she is staying in Whedon, she says "yes?" and they start their relationship.
She still hasn't made a decision of what she wants to do thus not telling her parents what she is going to do.
PAGE 202 is when she finally tells her parents that she is not going to be attending College.
I had to wait till over halfway through the book to see some real stakes. But guess what? Nothing really happens.
All the characters in this book forgive the Audrey so easily. No one is allowed to stay mad at Audrey. No one is allowed to feel disappointed or upset or hurt by her actions. Audrey doesn't feel bad about any of that.
Yeah, at the end of the book she makes a "final" decision but I couldn’t root for her because she was treating all her decision like trying on clothes. It was ridiculous.
So we have a main character with no real backbone. Making impulsive decisions is not backbone. Indecisiveness is not a reputable trait I want out of a character. A trait that everyone in this book forgives her for. No one was allowed to be angry with Audrey which was so weird to me. She just did whatever the hell she wanted without any real consequences. I couldn’t trust Audrey’s journey or support it because I didn’t have time to consider her choices because she would blindside not only the other character but also the reader with yet another impulsive decision.
This constant back and forth from our main character here made the book predictable and frustrating to get through and I only pushed through it because I haven’t finished a book in a long time and this was the first book I picked up to try and get back into reading, AND BOY was it a mistake.
Even if the book synopsis had said something different and geared my expectations towards what would actually happen in the book, the plot was boring. It had a few decent lines and moments but it was lost to the obscure and boring subplots, lack of real conflict (other than Audrey ambiguously saving a classmates life, a character that doesn't come back again until the end), and disjointed characters.
Audrey “saves” the life of a former classmate, Cameron Suzuki, and the video of her performing CPR goes viral and Audrey starts to feel like this is the change she needs and leads her to love her job. This causes some rifts with her family and now boyfriend Seth. And ultimately, she will have to make the of going to Seattle or stay in the place she has always known.
I had so many issues with the book but my biggest issue is the main character.
My initial expectations of the book stem from the cover and book blurb.
The reason that I picked up this book was that I believed this character had decided that she was not going to college and that decision will cause a rift with her academic parents and boyfriend who want her to stay in town and close to home. Okay. Now I read the book.
Page 3 says that someday she will leave Crescent Bay.
Page 29 she says that she isn’t like her family. They love school. She does not.
Page 31 she would give learning and school a second chance
Page 39 she says she is still going to Whedon even though she doesn’t like school.
Page 43 she decides to attend night school to be certified as a CNA and she would not quit it once school started.
Page 48 she mentions Seattle
Page 70 she starts her job at the retirement home.
Page 93 performs CPR, “saves” classmates life.
Page 110 Seth asks if she is staying in Whedon, she says "yes?" and they start their relationship.
She still hasn't made a decision of what she wants to do thus not telling her parents what she is going to do.
PAGE 202 is when she finally tells her parents that she is not going to be attending College.
I had to wait till over halfway through the book to see some real stakes. But guess what? Nothing really happens.
All the characters in this book forgive the Audrey so easily. No one is allowed to stay mad at Audrey. No one is allowed to feel disappointed or upset or hurt by her actions. Audrey doesn't feel bad about any of that.
Yeah, at the end of the book she makes a "final" decision but I couldn’t root for her because she was treating all her decision like trying on clothes. It was ridiculous.
So we have a main character with no real backbone. Making impulsive decisions is not backbone. Indecisiveness is not a reputable trait I want out of a character. A trait that everyone in this book forgives her for. No one was allowed to be angry with Audrey which was so weird to me. She just did whatever the hell she wanted without any real consequences. I couldn’t trust Audrey’s journey or support it because I didn’t have time to consider her choices because she would blindside not only the other character but also the reader with yet another impulsive decision.
This constant back and forth from our main character here made the book predictable and frustrating to get through and I only pushed through it because I haven’t finished a book in a long time and this was the first book I picked up to try and get back into reading, AND BOY was it a mistake.
Even if the book synopsis had said something different and geared my expectations towards what would actually happen in the book, the plot was boring. It had a few decent lines and moments but it was lost to the obscure and boring subplots, lack of real conflict (other than Audrey ambiguously saving a classmates life, a character that doesn't come back again until the end), and disjointed characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2023
Miles better than her debut. It still has problems -- namely an eye-roll-worthy focus on the MC's budding sex life and an unexpected and unwelcome subplot about her seemingly happily married parents undergoing a trial separation, because the mom is a whiny dumbass who feels ~trapped~ -- but nobody smokes in this one so it already has a leg up.
And the premise was so refreshingly unusual for YA -- a high school senior enrolls in night classes to get her CNA certification and then works a full time summer job (on the night shift!) at a nursing home -- that combined with the absolutely stunning cover, I might be getting bamboozled into thinking this is a better book than it really is.
But I truly did enjoy the plot, even as someone with no personal interest in nursing or elder care. I liked Audrey a lot as long as she had her pants on; I also liked all of her familial relationships and the perspective she has on being the not-strongly-academic daughter of two tenured college professors and an over-achieving older brother following in their mom's footsteps. I also liked the way she described how even though she struggled to get B's in school, she was able to excel at her nursing classes because the information was all crucial and relevant to her desired future job -- that helped her pay attention.
The setting, a small coastal town in northern California, was also beautiful.
I felt nothing about Seth, who doesn't actually seem that objectionable and maybe is even a catch, but his extensive dating history and interest in taking things to a pantsless level after a few weeks solidified his Nothing Man status to me. It works for the story in a way a celibate relationship probably wouldn't, because now her decisions about staying vs. leaving are complicated by virtue of being tangled up in passion that makes her think they know each other better than they really do, but it's still not my favorite thing.
Either way, I desperately want a new adult sequel where Honestly, I just kind of want a sequel regardless; I'd love to see the start of her awesome adult life. Heck, I'd settle for a YA companion novel about Rosie's senior year. She would have been a '23 graduate; it's not too late!
But the best character in the book, hands down, is Tamora, the 78-year-old former Hollywood talent manager whose mind is sharp as a tack and who seems perfectly capable of independent living, but is a resident of the home due to some vague health issues and quasi-self-imposed exile when she became too much of a ~burden~ on her former client and platonic roommate, 25 years her junior, when he fell in love and wanted his own space. She was such a hoot! And sometimes, unexpectedly poignant, in addition to being full of excellent life advice for Miss Audrey.
And the premise was so refreshingly unusual for YA -- a high school senior enrolls in night classes to get her CNA certification and then works a full time summer job (on the night shift!) at a nursing home -- that combined with the absolutely stunning cover, I might be getting bamboozled into thinking this is a better book than it really is.
But I truly did enjoy the plot, even as someone with no personal interest in nursing or elder care. I liked Audrey a lot as long as she had her pants on; I also liked all of her familial relationships and the perspective she has on being the not-strongly-academic daughter of two tenured college professors and an over-achieving older brother following in their mom's footsteps. I also liked the way she described how even though she struggled to get B's in school, she was able to excel at her nursing classes because the information was all crucial and relevant to her desired future job -- that helped her pay attention.
The setting, a small coastal town in northern California, was also beautiful.
I felt nothing about Seth, who doesn't actually seem that objectionable and maybe is even a catch, but his extensive dating history and interest in taking things to a pantsless level after a few weeks solidified his Nothing Man status to me. It works for the story in a way a celibate relationship probably wouldn't, because now her decisions about staying vs. leaving are complicated by virtue of being tangled up in passion that makes her think they know each other better than they really do, but it's still not my favorite thing.
Either way, I desperately want a new adult sequel where Honestly, I just kind of want a sequel regardless; I'd love to see the start of her awesome adult life. Heck, I'd settle for a YA companion novel about Rosie's senior year. She would have been a '23 graduate; it's not too late!
But the best character in the book, hands down, is Tamora, the 78-year-old former Hollywood talent manager whose mind is sharp as a tack and who seems perfectly capable of independent living, but is a resident of the home due to some vague health issues and quasi-self-imposed exile when she became too much of a ~burden~ on her former client and platonic roommate, 25 years her junior, when he fell in love and wanted his own space. She was such a hoot! And sometimes, unexpectedly poignant, in addition to being full of excellent life advice for Miss Audrey.
May 28, 2018
"Sparks flew up from the flames and died in the sand.
Right now, I needed to explain myself to Seth."
I have a constant hankering for feel-good contemporary romances, so when I was introduced to Emily Adrian's The Foreseeable Future by Penguin Random House of Canada, I felt like it could potentially be the right read to get me out of a reading slump. The Foreseeable Future follows the story of Audrey, a teen who's always had her life planned out for her. Growing up and not being given the freedom to make her own decisions has been tough, and when it becomes time to attend her choice college, she refuses. In a desperate attempt to regain her own freedom, Audrey takes it upon herself to work tirelessly and earn money to move to Seattle, a city that she's always admired dearly. Sadly, her parents aren't so enthused by her plans, and it isn't until she meets Seth that she begins to feel conflicted with her decision to claim a new chapter for herself and move away.
"Are you aware that you've gone viral??"
I followed the link to my best friend's message.
The view count had tripled.
First and foremost, I loved the idea behind The Foreseeable Future. The premise beckoned me to read it and devour it instantaneously. I loved that Audrey, a character who had been denied the choice to influence her own life, was finally grabbing life by the reins and forcing it to go down the path she desired most. However, with that said, I found myself having a very difficult time getting to know Audrey. I was left with an overwhelming feeling that there could have been far more to Audrey than this desire to be free. And although I understand that it's the core to Audrey's journey of self growth and exploring what the world has to offer, I still felt that it was impossible for me to get a true sense of who she was. There was no depth to her. Additionally, my overall feelings towards Seth went hand in hand with how I felt for Audrey. I didn't find him quite as likable as I had hoped, but was relieved to have found that Seth was a well-written and interesting character.
The Foreseeable Future by Emily Adrian, as a whole, was a refreshing book. It posed a tale that I felt many younger readers have encountered or will someday encounter themselves, and gave new perspective on tackling that desperate question of whether or not to make that one big change that could change your life forever. And although I hadn't quite felt like Audrey and Seth were identifiable characters, I did love their dialogue and journey together. The core story behind Emily Adrian's latest, in regards to coming to grips with reality, discovering what we want for ourselves in the future, and even living in the "now" is what truly won me over with The Foreseeable Future.
Right now, I needed to explain myself to Seth."
I have a constant hankering for feel-good contemporary romances, so when I was introduced to Emily Adrian's The Foreseeable Future by Penguin Random House of Canada, I felt like it could potentially be the right read to get me out of a reading slump. The Foreseeable Future follows the story of Audrey, a teen who's always had her life planned out for her. Growing up and not being given the freedom to make her own decisions has been tough, and when it becomes time to attend her choice college, she refuses. In a desperate attempt to regain her own freedom, Audrey takes it upon herself to work tirelessly and earn money to move to Seattle, a city that she's always admired dearly. Sadly, her parents aren't so enthused by her plans, and it isn't until she meets Seth that she begins to feel conflicted with her decision to claim a new chapter for herself and move away.
"Are you aware that you've gone viral??"
I followed the link to my best friend's message.
The view count had tripled.
First and foremost, I loved the idea behind The Foreseeable Future. The premise beckoned me to read it and devour it instantaneously. I loved that Audrey, a character who had been denied the choice to influence her own life, was finally grabbing life by the reins and forcing it to go down the path she desired most. However, with that said, I found myself having a very difficult time getting to know Audrey. I was left with an overwhelming feeling that there could have been far more to Audrey than this desire to be free. And although I understand that it's the core to Audrey's journey of self growth and exploring what the world has to offer, I still felt that it was impossible for me to get a true sense of who she was. There was no depth to her. Additionally, my overall feelings towards Seth went hand in hand with how I felt for Audrey. I didn't find him quite as likable as I had hoped, but was relieved to have found that Seth was a well-written and interesting character.
The Foreseeable Future by Emily Adrian, as a whole, was a refreshing book. It posed a tale that I felt many younger readers have encountered or will someday encounter themselves, and gave new perspective on tackling that desperate question of whether or not to make that one big change that could change your life forever. And although I hadn't quite felt like Audrey and Seth were identifiable characters, I did love their dialogue and journey together. The core story behind Emily Adrian's latest, in regards to coming to grips with reality, discovering what we want for ourselves in the future, and even living in the "now" is what truly won me over with The Foreseeable Future.
October 28, 2018
Summary:
Audrey Nelson is a confused high school senior living in a small rural town on the coast of California. Much to the shock of her professeur parents, she is not going to college at all. She has dreams of saving enough money to move to Seattle. When she starts to work at her local nursing center to earn money, a romance blossoms with Seth O’Malley. They really start to hit it off, and Audrey starts to love her job and new boyfriend when Seattle comes knocking. Things get complicated when Audrey goes viral by performing CPR on Seth’s ex. So does she escape her hometown life and take the job of her dreams? Or does she stay in town and live with the love of her life?
What I thought of the book:
It is a pretty average book, no writing elements that really wowed me. I like the way the author described the feelings and emotions Audrey felt because it made me feel like I felt those emotions with her. One strange thing that I have picked up about the book, is that the main character refers to her mother as “Iris” and to her father as “Dad”, yet they have the same relationship to Audrey. Iris isn’t less close to the main character as Dad is. This might be used to further separate her from the family? I thought that was a bit unusual. Not to mention, her family is very against Audrey being a nurse and I never really understood why. On another note, it is interesting seeing a different side of the spectrum for a viral video. With this novel, it brings the readers into the world of what it’s like to become temporarily famous, have MANY MANY comments written online about you, and how to deal with it. The book moves at a good pace, but I feel that is has some unneeded scenes and the author could’ve done a better job at making the storyline more interesting. Audrey always changes her mind and is spontaneous in her decisions and Emily Adrian does a good job at letting the reader feel the emotions with Audrey as she continues through the the few months depicted in the book.
Why I rated it the way I did:
I recommend this book to others because it explains the roller-coaster that becoming an adult is. From falling in love to getting a job to learning how to live on your own. In the beginning I thought this would be like any other sappy cliche teen romance novels, but I was wrong. Apart from being a little bit uneventful, I think Emily Adrian did an amazing job at bringing the reader with the characters through the plot. Again, it wasn’t an amazing read because there was nothing in the book that really changed my life or wowed me. It wasn’t a horrible read either because it still was a bit unconventional. All in all, I recommend this book.
Audrey Nelson is a confused high school senior living in a small rural town on the coast of California. Much to the shock of her professeur parents, she is not going to college at all. She has dreams of saving enough money to move to Seattle. When she starts to work at her local nursing center to earn money, a romance blossoms with Seth O’Malley. They really start to hit it off, and Audrey starts to love her job and new boyfriend when Seattle comes knocking. Things get complicated when Audrey goes viral by performing CPR on Seth’s ex. So does she escape her hometown life and take the job of her dreams? Or does she stay in town and live with the love of her life?
What I thought of the book:
It is a pretty average book, no writing elements that really wowed me. I like the way the author described the feelings and emotions Audrey felt because it made me feel like I felt those emotions with her. One strange thing that I have picked up about the book, is that the main character refers to her mother as “Iris” and to her father as “Dad”, yet they have the same relationship to Audrey. Iris isn’t less close to the main character as Dad is. This might be used to further separate her from the family? I thought that was a bit unusual. Not to mention, her family is very against Audrey being a nurse and I never really understood why. On another note, it is interesting seeing a different side of the spectrum for a viral video. With this novel, it brings the readers into the world of what it’s like to become temporarily famous, have MANY MANY comments written online about you, and how to deal with it. The book moves at a good pace, but I feel that is has some unneeded scenes and the author could’ve done a better job at making the storyline more interesting. Audrey always changes her mind and is spontaneous in her decisions and Emily Adrian does a good job at letting the reader feel the emotions with Audrey as she continues through the the few months depicted in the book.
Why I rated it the way I did:
I recommend this book to others because it explains the roller-coaster that becoming an adult is. From falling in love to getting a job to learning how to live on your own. In the beginning I thought this would be like any other sappy cliche teen romance novels, but I was wrong. Apart from being a little bit uneventful, I think Emily Adrian did an amazing job at bringing the reader with the characters through the plot. Again, it wasn’t an amazing read because there was nothing in the book that really changed my life or wowed me. It wasn’t a horrible read either because it still was a bit unconventional. All in all, I recommend this book.
May 1, 2018
I wasn't really sure what to expect going into this book but it seemed like a fun summer read so I was excited to see where it would go - and I am quite pleased with it!
Thanks so much to Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC of this book for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own.
The story follows Audrey, a teen who is struggling to find her path after high school. Her parents want her to go to the college where they are professors but she is looking for something a little less academic. When she enrols in night school to become a Certified Nurse Assistant at the local nursing home, Audrey doesn't realize she could be changing her whole future. At a beach party, one of her mutual friends, Cameron has a heart attack and Audrey performs CPR, saving her life. She becomes a viral sensation and soon sets her sights on a career in nursing, much to her parents' dismay. But when she gets the chance to move to her dream city of Seattle, the only thing holding her back is Seth, the boy she's fallen in love with.
This was the second book I've read by Adrian and I think I definitely liked this one better. I had an easier time connecting with Audrey than I did the characters of the other book and genuinely think that Adrian has grown as an author since her debut novel. The book was well written, I found that I was reading it quite quickly and finished it in two sittings. The storyline itself was quite original and I really liked the introduction of some new elements to the novel, not just the usual tropes of YA.
I found Audrey's dilemma really intriguing and the reasoning behind it was also interesting. Much of this book focuses on Audrey's need to get out of the small town she is trapped in and when she gets the opportunity to leave, she wavers. I understand that she doesn't want to leave Seth, but she also doesn't want to stay where she is. I'm sure this is a regular issue that many people have but I don't know that I've seen it like this at a YA level before. In the end, they end up going with the obvious decision, but there were many instances along the way where this caused friction between the couple.
There is also some family drama to add to the story which helped ground the story and relate the reader to the characters, especially Audrey. For the most part, I enjoyed this aspect, but there were times when the family dynamic was a bit excessive.
Overall, I think there were some other parts of the book that didn't wow me as much as I wanted to, but for the most part, I enjoyed the uniqueness of the story.
Thanks so much to Penguin Random House for sending me an ARC of this book for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own.
The story follows Audrey, a teen who is struggling to find her path after high school. Her parents want her to go to the college where they are professors but she is looking for something a little less academic. When she enrols in night school to become a Certified Nurse Assistant at the local nursing home, Audrey doesn't realize she could be changing her whole future. At a beach party, one of her mutual friends, Cameron has a heart attack and Audrey performs CPR, saving her life. She becomes a viral sensation and soon sets her sights on a career in nursing, much to her parents' dismay. But when she gets the chance to move to her dream city of Seattle, the only thing holding her back is Seth, the boy she's fallen in love with.
This was the second book I've read by Adrian and I think I definitely liked this one better. I had an easier time connecting with Audrey than I did the characters of the other book and genuinely think that Adrian has grown as an author since her debut novel. The book was well written, I found that I was reading it quite quickly and finished it in two sittings. The storyline itself was quite original and I really liked the introduction of some new elements to the novel, not just the usual tropes of YA.
I found Audrey's dilemma really intriguing and the reasoning behind it was also interesting. Much of this book focuses on Audrey's need to get out of the small town she is trapped in and when she gets the opportunity to leave, she wavers. I understand that she doesn't want to leave Seth, but she also doesn't want to stay where she is. I'm sure this is a regular issue that many people have but I don't know that I've seen it like this at a YA level before. In the end, they end up going with the obvious decision, but there were many instances along the way where this caused friction between the couple.
There is also some family drama to add to the story which helped ground the story and relate the reader to the characters, especially Audrey. For the most part, I enjoyed this aspect, but there were times when the family dynamic was a bit excessive.
Overall, I think there were some other parts of the book that didn't wow me as much as I wanted to, but for the most part, I enjoyed the uniqueness of the story.
March 1, 2021
I read this because I liked the author's other novel "Like It Never Happened". Her plots are meandering, comprised of a lot of different elements. The secondary characters are interesting and complex. What's not to like? 5 Stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As far as THIS plot goes, I can't AT ALL relate to someone who would give up a free ride at a great College/University to then go work at a job that demands so much out of you physically. Someone who isn't into reading!!! The protagonist's personality isn't something I can fathom, but if she's happy (with what feel like bizarre life choices to me), then more power to her.
Seth is entirely too perfect, so that wasn't too believable. Plus, his rather abrupt descent into love wasn't something I bought; it felt like an obvious plot device to move the story along. Seth was a player. How/why the sudden change?! Nothing about the protagonist felt like it would prompt sudden, deep love. But whatever, this is a novel, and YA romance, so we get to have perfect book boyfriends, who love us for no good reason and are very faithful to us despite having been the town's resident Romeo-Playa prior to now.
As far as THIS plot goes, I can't AT ALL relate to someone who would give up a free ride at a great College/University to then go work at a job that demands so much out of you physically. Someone who isn't into reading!!! The protagonist's personality isn't something I can fathom, but if she's happy (with what feel like bizarre life choices to me), then more power to her.
Seth is entirely too perfect, so that wasn't too believable. Plus, his rather abrupt descent into love wasn't something I bought; it felt like an obvious plot device to move the story along. Seth was a player. How/why the sudden change?! Nothing about the protagonist felt like it would prompt sudden, deep love. But whatever, this is a novel, and YA romance, so we get to have perfect book boyfriends, who love us for no good reason and are very faithful to us despite having been the town's resident Romeo-Playa prior to now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2018
That was gooooood. I can't imagine wanting that small-scale, townie life that gets kinda glorified in this book, but I think that's the point of reading. We aren't all international globetrotters or cosmopolitan urbanites. I got a window into different world, but also got to contrast that with something familiar to me (Whedon, sprung free in Italy!, the cocoon of academia, and big-city-dreams).
You can see Audrey crash, burn, and flounder for a long time. It makes me pity her, and I struggle to understand her decisions for far too long. AND THEN... it happens. My faith in her was restored. She makes ridiculous, spontaneous decisions, but FINALLY, she does the right thing. Good, or else I would've screamed and probably regretted her choices 10x more than she did herself.
Also, it was amazing to see her mom's story as such a strong foil to her own. I appreciated the book, and have nothing to complain about... but also know that it wasn't anything particularly special.
You can see Audrey crash, burn, and flounder for a long time. It makes me pity her, and I struggle to understand her decisions for far too long. AND THEN... it happens. My faith in her was restored. She makes ridiculous, spontaneous decisions, but FINALLY, she does the right thing. Good, or else I would've screamed and probably regretted her choices 10x more than she did herself.
Also, it was amazing to see her mom's story as such a strong foil to her own. I appreciated the book, and have nothing to complain about... but also know that it wasn't anything particularly special.
March 24, 2020
Did you know what you wanted to do when you graduated high school? Did your parents influence your decisions? The answers to these questions are probably no and yes, respectively, so it won't be a surprise that that's what this book is about.
Audrey Nelson, the child of two professors in a small town, is going through her first life crisis. She doesn't want to go to college at home, but in Seattle. She takes a job in a nursing home right out of High School where she meets Seth O'Malley, who works there. He's a dream, he's kind, and he becomes her anchor in an ever evolving and unbalanced home life as her parents' marriage becomes rocky.
So the book is about growing up, trusting others, speaking your mind, and growing up and following your dreams. It's also about commitment to friends, spouse, and family. It's written for readers of all ages, although aims at a YA and twenties audience.
For a different review, see the Ohioana Library Quarterly http://www.ohioana.org
Audrey Nelson, the child of two professors in a small town, is going through her first life crisis. She doesn't want to go to college at home, but in Seattle. She takes a job in a nursing home right out of High School where she meets Seth O'Malley, who works there. He's a dream, he's kind, and he becomes her anchor in an ever evolving and unbalanced home life as her parents' marriage becomes rocky.
So the book is about growing up, trusting others, speaking your mind, and growing up and following your dreams. It's also about commitment to friends, spouse, and family. It's written for readers of all ages, although aims at a YA and twenties audience.
For a different review, see the Ohioana Library Quarterly http://www.ohioana.org
July 13, 2018
I really enjoyed this story!
The Foreseeable Future focuses on Audrey, a recent high school grad who's spending the summer following her senior year attempting to determine her future path. A spontaneous decision leads her to the night shift at an assisted living facility, working alongside swoon-worthy Seth. Will she be swayed by the boy who's caught her eye, or will she take the risk and follow her dreams--whatever those may be?
I thought this book was a great summer read. It was super light, refreshing, and I really enjoyed the ending. The characters were fun, though admittedly I wish we got a little bit more of Sara and Elliot as the story was a little too romance-reliant. Overall, though, it was a quick read that's definitely worth a try.
The Foreseeable Future focuses on Audrey, a recent high school grad who's spending the summer following her senior year attempting to determine her future path. A spontaneous decision leads her to the night shift at an assisted living facility, working alongside swoon-worthy Seth. Will she be swayed by the boy who's caught her eye, or will she take the risk and follow her dreams--whatever those may be?
I thought this book was a great summer read. It was super light, refreshing, and I really enjoyed the ending. The characters were fun, though admittedly I wish we got a little bit more of Sara and Elliot as the story was a little too romance-reliant. Overall, though, it was a quick read that's definitely worth a try.
March 12, 2018
****3.5 Stars****
Audrey isn't sure what she wants in life...but she is pretty sure that college isn't for her and rather than do that she wants to move to Seattle and begin this new chapter. Her parents are less than thrilled, both are professors, and throw in an unexpected romance with easy going, charming boy and pretty soon Audrey isn't sure what she wants.
This book wasn't what I was expecting...but in a good way. I felt that some of the book dragged on in certain spots but overall it was a good story of exploring what you want from life when it doesn't line up with other people's thoughts.
Thanks to Penguin Random House for the ARC!
Audrey isn't sure what she wants in life...but she is pretty sure that college isn't for her and rather than do that she wants to move to Seattle and begin this new chapter. Her parents are less than thrilled, both are professors, and throw in an unexpected romance with easy going, charming boy and pretty soon Audrey isn't sure what she wants.
This book wasn't what I was expecting...but in a good way. I felt that some of the book dragged on in certain spots but overall it was a good story of exploring what you want from life when it doesn't line up with other people's thoughts.
Thanks to Penguin Random House for the ARC!
January 31, 2024
4.5⭐️
I actually enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. Honestly it wasn’t really a romance at all. This story was more about Audrey becoming more independent and her struggle to figure out her life after high school. Would she let her parents influence what she did with her life? Her friends? Seth O’Malley? I think the message of the book was really cool and I loved reading Audrey’s story. I loved reading about her newfound love for nursing when she believed she wasn’t good at anything and her relationship with Tamora. Overall this book was really good and I highly recommend it!
I actually enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would. Honestly it wasn’t really a romance at all. This story was more about Audrey becoming more independent and her struggle to figure out her life after high school. Would she let her parents influence what she did with her life? Her friends? Seth O’Malley? I think the message of the book was really cool and I loved reading Audrey’s story. I loved reading about her newfound love for nursing when she believed she wasn’t good at anything and her relationship with Tamora. Overall this book was really good and I highly recommend it!
November 4, 2024
First of all, the cover of this book is beautiful. I think I picked it up based on the cover alone. I did, however, enjoy the story as well. The one thing I will say, is that I started to get concerned this was going to be one of those stories where the girl gives up everything for a boy. So, if you begin this book and get that feeling, keep reading!
I did find the relationship between the parents to be interesting. As an adult reader of this YA book, I feel like there could have been a whole other story around their issues.
I think any reader who loves a good coming of age book will enjoy this story.
I did find the relationship between the parents to be interesting. As an adult reader of this YA book, I feel like there could have been a whole other story around their issues.
I think any reader who loves a good coming of age book will enjoy this story.
June 24, 2018
A young woman takes matters into her own hands for the first time in her life, and while doing so, she saves the life of a classmate. This act - while a matter of instinct - causes ripples that shake up her whole world in a way she couldn't have anticipated. Meanwhile, her relationships with a young man who has never been someone she has noticed before has her re-thinking what she wants and deserves out of life. Audrey is both an utterly likable character and at times hard to stomach - as is her family. This was a solid YA book, but not amazing.
November 4, 2018
I picked up The Foreseeable Future after putting down a different book that was such a snooze-fest I couldn't deal (no I will not name names!), and I'm so glad I did. This is a fun coming-of-age story with a bit of romance, and it's an unusual story, too. It was refreshing to meet a protagonist who isn't crazy about books, who isn't sure about college, who frankly seems like an actual teenager.
Of course I loved the romance (a dreamy beach cowboy, are you kidding me) but even more so, I loooved all the family conflict. SO GOOD. I'm looking forward to reading more Emily Adrian books.
Of course I loved the romance (a dreamy beach cowboy, are you kidding me) but even more so, I loooved all the family conflict. SO GOOD. I'm looking forward to reading more Emily Adrian books.
June 11, 2018
The Foreseeable Future... a typical coming of age story peppered with romantic interests and struggling friendship elements focused on social media. A high school senior, Audrey, attempts to determine what to do with her future, continue working as a CNA at the local Senior Living Facility, and continue education to be a RN, or follow her professor parents' dream for her at the local prestigious college, tuition free. A boyfriend and advice from seasoned residents complicates the issue.
June 19, 2018
An easy read. Great for any upper level high school students wondering what comes next. I loved how the main girl was indecisive about continuing her education and it showed that even though that was a gray area for her, she didn't let it stop her from progressing. She wasn't my favourite character, but I did enjoy the story enough to give it my average rating of 3 stars.
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