Forever Ends

by Carol Hibbs

FOREVER ENDS

Please do not grieve and shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow to you through the years.
But start out bravely with a gallant smile
And for my sake and in my name, live on.

When you’ve lost so many family members, all you want to do is start
over and begin to feel again….
Gabrielle Bowman had lost her beloved sister, her mother and two
husbands and when she decided to move to a small town to start a
new chapter in her life, little did she know that a fight to the death
with a demon to rescue a little girl would take her mind off her grief
and introduce her to the new love of her life.

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 10, 2016

Reviews

[C.R. Alam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carol Hibbs is a new author for me, and I didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book. At first, I thought it would be a second-chance love story as the female lead, Gabrielle–a forty-something woman–was being introduced. We then followed her going through a transition in her life quite intimately since the author wrote her inner monologue throughout the book. It took a bit getting used to for me, but once I got sucked into the twist in the book, I didn't mind it. And boy, what a twist it was. I don't want to reveal anything that will spoil the plot for future readers, but I could say that this book was a mix of romance, mystery, and the paranormal.

I enjoyed reading this book and finding out the layers in the story. What I found interesting is that the author mixed a somewhat ordinary rural living in Manitoba, Canada, with a paranormal mystery, and nobody in the story batted an eye about it. At one point, we were learning about log-wood cabin making, and next, we were investigating some mysterious happenings. Another point, Gabrielle was making hot passionate love to her hunky cabin-builder, and next, something extraordinary was revealed.

If you like a good mix of mature adult romance with a bit of paranormal mystery, I would recommend this book. It is quite a page-turner.

[Karen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a ride! I went in expecting women’s fiction, but this story delivers so much more, it’s a blend of family drama, love, friendship, and even a spooky twist. From the very first page, I was rooting for Gabrielle. The writing transported me straight to Gimli, trolling through the garden, sipping tea on the porch, and feeling every ounce of excitement and fear that comes with a new beginning. If you’re looking for a book that mixes real emotions with a touch of mystery, this one’s for you!

[Tarun Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The character, Gabrielle, finally reveals a powerful woman and she knows what she wants and it was obvious that she certainly tried to keep Ryan straight. Gabrielle, in any case, is so mindful of who she is and tries to be the best for her brothers, Jason and Payden, and not just for herself.

I was not anticipating the twists and turns of the house and Christina, Jason, Payden, Calla, Devin, Tess, Merilyn and Ryan. Gabrielle would never have believed that her transfer to Gimli would mean, I'm sure, a whole new connection, her and her son's use of their talents, dimensional demons, van-guards, various facets. Carol has taken me on a real tour.

It took a little while for me to get used to it, but I didn't care when I sucked into the twist of this novel. And, boy, it's just a twist. I do not want to expose anything to potential readers that can ruin the storyline, but I can tell that the novel is a combination of romanticism, suspense and paranorm.

I would recommend this book if you want a nice blend of adult romanticity and a touch of paranormal mystery.

[George Hibbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am probably a little biased because I edited and proofread this book, but I think that it is a fine read with a couple of unexpected twists. It crosses several genres, but Carol Hibbs is a gifted author - this comes from an English instructor. Although it's a little on the short side, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a page-turner.

[Annette D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever Ends takes its time to unfold, but once you’re immersed in Gabrielle’s world, it becomes hard to step away. Carol Hibbs has a quiet, observant style of writing that leans into emotional honesty rather than drama. I especially loved how the house and garden felt alive, almost like silent characters reflecting Gabrielle’s inner journey. While some scenes were weighed down by detail (particularly descriptions of rooms and furniture), it slowly became clear that this mirrored the heaviness of grief; slow, repetitive, and filled with moments of distraction.
By the end, I found myself grateful I stayed with it. Hibbs doesn’t rush healing, and she doesn’t offer neat answers, instead, she writes about loss, memory, and second chances with a kind of lived-in truth. It’s not a fast-paced read, but it’s a meaningful one, with family bonds and personal resilience at its core. If you’re patient, there’s a quiet beauty here worth discovering.

[Barbara S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Forever Ends not really knowing what to expect, but the story turned out to be quite different from the usual romances I pick up. It mixes everyday rural life with a paranormal edge, which made it feel unique. Some parts of the book really caught my attention, especially when the mystery elements started to build.

There were times when the pacing felt a little uneven, but the mix of romance, small-town detail, and supernatural twists kept me curious enough to keep turning the pages. It isn’t the kind of book that will work for everyone, but I did enjoy parts of it and can see why other readers might connect with it more strongly.

[Harold S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cried twice while reading this book, and those moments will stay with me. The first was during the cemetery visit, the quiet grief in that scene was written with such honesty that it felt like I was standing right there with Gabrielle, sharing the weight of her loss. The second was when she spoke about losing Bronte. The rawness of her words cut deep, almost too close, and reminded me how fragile and powerful love can be. That’s when I knew the author had truly poured her heart into this story, crafting something that doesn’t just tell a tale but reaches in and makes you feel every beat of it.

[Catherine F. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this book more than I did. The story is undeniably heartfelt, and I truly admire how it tackles themes of starting over and facing grief head-on. That said, the pacing really slowed me down, especially in the early chapters with all the detailed house descriptions. Despite that, the supernatural elements added an intriguing twist, and the strong, believable family relationships kept me invested enough to see it through. If you’re someone who appreciates emotional depth over fast action, this one might resonate with you.

[Loren B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first time Gabrielle thinks she sees someone in her window, I got goosebumps, that slow build of dread gave the story a haunting edge without turning it into full-on horror. Blending that eerie “haunted house” vibe with an emotional family journey makes this book truly unique. At its heart, it’s a story about courage: Gabrielle has been knocked down time and again, yet she keeps getting up. She builds, moves forward, creates, and loves, and following her journey made me want to face my own challenges with the same spirit.

[John C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up this book for the promise of a spooky house, but what truly captured me was the tender romance between Gabrielle and Ryan. Their connection grew through conversations that felt so natural, never forced, and that authenticity made me root for them even more. And then there’s Tess, Ryan’s daughter. She completely stole my heart. Her presence added warmth and depth to the story, reminding me that love isn’t just about two people but about the bonds that ripple out and create family in unexpected ways.

[Bonnie R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Ends is different from what I usually read, but I’m glad I picked it up. It’s equal parts heartfelt drama and eerie suspense not perfect, but definitely memorable. What surprised me most is that it didn’t just feel like a story; it felt like therapy. Grief, love, letting go, starting over… all the emotions are here, woven in a way that stays with you long after the last page. I’ve already recommended it to friends, because I closed the book feeling lighter somehow, as if Gabrielle’s journey helped me carry my own a little easier.

[Margaret J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carol Hibbs writes with such honesty and emotional depth that the story almost feels autobiographical. Gabrielle’s voice is raw, real, and deeply moving. While there were times I wished the pace picked up a bit, the emotional intensity and insight kept me fully engaged. What resonated most with me was how beautifully the book captures the lingering presence of grief and the quiet, healing power of love, whether from family, friends, or unexpected places. It’s the kind of story that stays with you and makes you reflect on your own life and the choices you make.

[John L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This felt personal, like the author handed me a family album and let me live in it for a while. Gabrielle’s journey from cluttered grief to cautious hope is portrayed with so much compassion. The scenes with Jayde and Calla, and the small-town touches in Gimli, were warm and believable. I also appreciated how the book doesn’t rush healing: you can feel the steps forward and the slips back. Some descriptive passages linger longer than necessary, but honestly, those passages are also the ones that made me care.

[Gary E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forever Ends is a heartfelt story rich in detail and emotion. What stood out most to me was the authentic and warm bond between Gabrielle and her sons, those moments truly felt genuine. The mystery surrounding the house and its past added a subtle, eerie edge that kept the story intriguing. While the pacing occasionally slowed with some heavy description, the book ultimately offers a meaningful exploration of grief, second chances, and the resilience needed to rebuild your life. It’s a quiet, thoughtful read that stays with you long after the last page.

[Gregory S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most was how the ordinary and extraordinary blended together. One moment it’s lasagna and porch swings, the next it’s photo frames crashing in empty rooms, a perfect reflection of how life feels, normal until suddenly it isn’t. And while some readers might find the detail overwhelming, I loved it. Hibbs’ rich descriptions of Gabrielle’s new home, her garden, even the furniture, painted such a vivid picture that I felt like I was moving in right alongside her.

[Rita H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book touched me more than I expected. Gabrielle’s story of loss and starting over felt so real, like I was sitting in her kitchen listening to her share her life. The way she leans on her two sons and keeps pushing forward despite heartbreak is inspiring. And then the mystery of the house added such an unexpected layer. I honestly got chills. Carol Hibbs has a beautiful way of mixing grief, love, and suspense into something that lingers with you long after you finish.

[Jenny N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. It’s about family, moving forward after tragedy, and finding hope again, all wrapped up with a bit of a supernatural twist. Gabrielle is such a strong character, she’s the kind of mom everyone wishes they had, fiercely protective but still vulnerable. Some parts felt a little long, but I didn’t mind because the emotions were genuine. I think anyone who’s ever had to start over in life will connect with this book.

[Jonathan G. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually enjoyed the mix of genres in Forever Ends. The setting felt unique, and I liked how the story brought together small-town life, romance, and a paranormal mystery. Some of the twists kept me turning the pages, and there were moments that really worked for me.

[Steve V. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book wrecked me in the best way. Gabrielle’s grief, the way she talks to her late husband at the cemetery, and her struggle to let go of the past felt painfully real. I’ve lost people too, and those chapters hit home. The mystery of the house was icing on the cake, unsettling, but never over the top. A beautiful balance of heartbreak and hope.

[Theodore B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a single mom, I felt truly seen in this story. Gabrielle’s relationship with Jason and Payden was written with such tenderness and honesty that it struck a chord with me.
The small moments, cooking lasagna together, packing boxes, or joking about cell phones felt so real and genuine. Family isn’t perfect, but the love between them leapt right off the page.

[Lauryn R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forever Ends isn’t flashy or fast-paced. It’s a quiet story about grief, resilience, and the little ways we rebuild ourselves. I especially liked Gabrielle’s friendship with Jayde, that goodbye scene had me in tears.

[She Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without a doubt, Forever Ends deserves a five-star rating. This is a well-written story. The author, Carol Hibbs, truly captivates you with her very descriptive story telling. She leaves absolutely no holes or guessing when it comes to the connection of characters in retrospect to the story. I love how Carol let’s her readers in on the thoughts of the characters when in conversation with one another. You don’t see this from too many authors. I definitely did not expect for the story to go the way it went. When I read the title, Forever Ends, I automatically thought that it would have been a sad love story. This was surely not that. I could tell that, Carol, took her time writing this book. From the development of characters, the scenes, the descriptions, the little small moments and details, to background conversations, Forever Ends, made me feel like I was seriously reading a movie-script rather than reading a book.

The character, Gabrielle, ultimately exudes a woman of strength and knowing what she wants and it was clear that as much as she was trying to hold back, she definitely wanted Ryan right off bat. At any rate, Gabrielle is very much so aware of who she is and essentially wants the best not only for herself, but for her children, Jason and Payden. I love how Gabrielle only allowed her period of grievance to last just a few days, and a few days only. Her thought process of “OK, I’m going to be down for this short amount of time and then boom… I have to get back in action,” is something we all should instill internally. Basically, not allowing ourselves to stay down for too long because we have a purpose to fulfill. Now of course this was not what she said, but this seems to be the mindset she carried. In her mind, the move to Gimli was the perfect move for Gabrielle, but boy oh boy! I was not expecting the amount of twists and turns this story was getting ready to take with the house, Christina, Jason, Payden, Calla, Devin, Tess, Merilyn, and Ryan. I’m sure Gabrielle would have never thought that the move to Gimli would mean: a new relationship, her and her son's utilizing their abilities, dimensional demons, van-guards, a different dimension and what seem to be ghosts appearing and leaving writings on her mirror. Carol took me on a real journey.
Carol did a really great job tugging at our emotions and getting us spooked. I literally felt chills as I read certain parts of the story, especially towards the end. Who would have thought little four-year-old Christina’s story would end the way it did? The revealing of Christina and who and what she was, was the most shocking part of the story. What I thought was obvious in regards to Christina, was not the case. For the life of me, I could not figure out Merilyn and her random appearances, but when I did figure her out at the end, my mouth completely dropped to the floor. Now I’m officially curious about Merilyn and her story and are hoping that a spin-off will occur based on Merilyn.

With respect to the author, as much as I want to give an in-depth summarization, I cannot spill much of the story. It is full of surprises that I just have to keep to myself. Forever Ends is an absolute great read. Without a doubt, I recommend Forever Ends.

[Delphine Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Ends" is a chilling, emotional, and unexpectedly heartwarming read.

The cover immediately caught my eye haunting flames, a house at the center of chaos, it perfectly reflects the dark suspense woven into the story. From the moment Gabrielle moves into her “safe” new home, you know things are anything but safe. The haunted atmosphere had me hooked right away, with just the right mix of eerie tension and emotional stakes.

Gabrielle is such a relatable character strong, vulnerable, and determined to protect her family. I loved how her bond with her sons grounded the story, even as the supernatural danger built around them. And then there’s Ryan, the neighbor who brings both warmth and complication. Their romance feels natural, tender, and gives just enough light to balance the darkness.

The mystery of Christina, the trapped girl, kept me turning the pages late into the night. I found myself completely invested in uncovering the truth, and the way the entire group, family, friends, and Ryan’s daughter Tess pulled together gave the story a deeper sense of community and love.

If you enjoy paranormal suspense, haunted house chills, and romance threaded through danger, this book is a fantastic pick. It’s both spooky and heartfelt, a rare combination that left me satisfied and a little haunted myself.

[Carol Neill]

I started writing the book in 2006. It's not the kind of story I would normally read, but it wouldn't leave my head. I had to write it down, and for the most part, it wrote itself, I just held the pen. I finished writing in 2012, but I rewrote it many more times before I published it. It's amazing as to how many times life gets in the way. Hopefully it won't take me another six years to write the second book.