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Forever After All
McKenna
I’ve always had a thing for my best friend’s older brother. In fact, I’ve been planning our wedding since elementary school. Then I grew up, moved away, and studying, and law school became my only focus.
Now that I’m back, the sexy cowboy is everywhere I turn. I shouldn’t mind so much as Rip Callahan is all levels of fine. My problem? His presence… his attention is sending me in a spin. And our reconnection? It’s fast and intense and everything I’ve ever dreamed of.
So why am I getting in my own way?
Rip
I didn’t know the first kiss I ever had would still play on my mind over ten years later. But with beauty and brains, McKenna Dawson is under my skin and very much off-limits.
Crushing on my sister’s best friend isn’t the worst part. That connection? I can’t ignore it. Should I fight it? Probably. Do I want to? Absolutely not.
A challenge among friends is all it takes for me to know she’s what I’ve been missing. That and one incredible trip with those same friends means there’s no going back. Not for me.
It was only supposed to be a weekend, but maybe we were meant to be forever after all.
I’ve always had a thing for my best friend’s older brother. In fact, I’ve been planning our wedding since elementary school. Then I grew up, moved away, and studying, and law school became my only focus.
Now that I’m back, the sexy cowboy is everywhere I turn. I shouldn’t mind so much as Rip Callahan is all levels of fine. My problem? His presence… his attention is sending me in a spin. And our reconnection? It’s fast and intense and everything I’ve ever dreamed of.
So why am I getting in my own way?
Rip
I didn’t know the first kiss I ever had would still play on my mind over ten years later. But with beauty and brains, McKenna Dawson is under my skin and very much off-limits.
Crushing on my sister’s best friend isn’t the worst part. That connection? I can’t ignore it. Should I fight it? Probably. Do I want to? Absolutely not.
A challenge among friends is all it takes for me to know she’s what I’ve been missing. That and one incredible trip with those same friends means there’s no going back. Not for me.
It was only supposed to be a weekend, but maybe we were meant to be forever after all.
317 pages, Paperback
Published June 20, 2021
383 people are currently reading
2756 people want to read
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
97 books6,366 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
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July 12, 2021PRE-ORDER LINKS
Amazon World: https://geni.us/ForeverAfterAllKR
Only available at the following retailers during pre-order and on June 20, 2021
B&N: https://bit.ly/3w6yS62
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3brQPUw
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3hEFcxJ
Amazon World: https://geni.us/ForeverAfterAllKR
Only available at the following retailers during pre-order and on June 20, 2021
B&N: https://bit.ly/3w6yS62
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3brQPUw
Apple Books: https://apple.co/3hEFcxJ
June 21, 2021
Tenderly sweet and lushly romantic- all the swoony butterflies! Forever After All has everything I adore and expect from a Kaylee Ryan story- sincere and authentic characters, a tender love story with lots of heart and heat, and tons of sweet moments.
Forever After All builds on two favorite tropes- best friend’s brother and small town romance. McKenna is finally home from her expedited journey to become a lawyer- home to spend time with her best friend, which also means spending time with her best friend’s brother Rip, the boy she’s been in love with since she pretended to have married him when she was 7. The flirting between them soon dials up, and soon they are exploring a more than friends arrangement.
Like all Kaylee stories the chemistry gave me all the butterflies-these two are so adorable together, and I loved how richly Kaylee built their history into the story and their connection in the present. McKenna is an unassuming and slightly insecure heroine that is mostly relatable, and Rip is just a DREAMBOAT. Understanding, kind, sexy, generous, emotionally available and completely transparent with his heart- basically all the things I love about a Kaylee Ryan hero. He pursued her so openly and honestly- and I swooned for him page after page.
I adore all things Kaylee, and I definitely enjoyed much of this story, though in all honesty it is not my favorite in her long list of magical novels. I did love how the central drama didn’t come from the best friend- I loved how Kaylee had her rooting for them to be together and subverted the drama of the trope. And, I loved them together. While still lower drama, though, what angst we had here I found to be a bit grating in places- especially McKenna’s hesitancy. These two were both so clearly into each other, and acting on those feelings, so I found the moments when they couldn’t get on the same page frustrating- and usually it came from McKenna not believing his sincerity, without any reason not to. I think a lot of this comes from her baggage with her family, which felt a bit underdeveloped until the end, so I might have emphasized with her more had I felt pulled into that part of her- every time she did it I felt like I just didn’t know her as a character. The twists at the end were fun and exciting, though a lot all at once, but it definitely made for some fast drama and resolution to spice up the end.
I loved the other characters and small town of this story- I’d love to get more from this world, and all in all, a solid story- a fun and sweet read, and the happy ending made some of the bumps along the way worth the journey.
Forever After All builds on two favorite tropes- best friend’s brother and small town romance. McKenna is finally home from her expedited journey to become a lawyer- home to spend time with her best friend, which also means spending time with her best friend’s brother Rip, the boy she’s been in love with since she pretended to have married him when she was 7. The flirting between them soon dials up, and soon they are exploring a more than friends arrangement.
Like all Kaylee stories the chemistry gave me all the butterflies-these two are so adorable together, and I loved how richly Kaylee built their history into the story and their connection in the present. McKenna is an unassuming and slightly insecure heroine that is mostly relatable, and Rip is just a DREAMBOAT. Understanding, kind, sexy, generous, emotionally available and completely transparent with his heart- basically all the things I love about a Kaylee Ryan hero. He pursued her so openly and honestly- and I swooned for him page after page.
I adore all things Kaylee, and I definitely enjoyed much of this story, though in all honesty it is not my favorite in her long list of magical novels. I did love how the central drama didn’t come from the best friend- I loved how Kaylee had her rooting for them to be together and subverted the drama of the trope. And, I loved them together. While still lower drama, though, what angst we had here I found to be a bit grating in places- especially McKenna’s hesitancy. These two were both so clearly into each other, and acting on those feelings, so I found the moments when they couldn’t get on the same page frustrating- and usually it came from McKenna not believing his sincerity, without any reason not to. I think a lot of this comes from her baggage with her family, which felt a bit underdeveloped until the end, so I might have emphasized with her more had I felt pulled into that part of her- every time she did it I felt like I just didn’t know her as a character. The twists at the end were fun and exciting, though a lot all at once, but it definitely made for some fast drama and resolution to spice up the end.
I loved the other characters and small town of this story- I’d love to get more from this world, and all in all, a solid story- a fun and sweet read, and the happy ending made some of the bumps along the way worth the journey.
June 9, 2021
There is always something like coming home when reading a Kaylee Ryan book. She writes her characters and towns to make them feel familiar and it was no different with Forever After All. While I didn’t love this like I have the author’s past work, I still sped through this and was intrigued enough to see how it would end.
This was a low angst romance and those are my favorites. We have a best friend's brother romance without all of the drama because the best friend was actually hoping they would get together. That alone was refreshing!
I liked Rip and McKenna together. They were cute and the chemistry between them was there even though they didn’t see each other in the time she went away to college. I don’t know how many times I can say that I love a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t hesitate to go after it. Rip knew he wanted McKenna and wasted no time making his moves and letting her know.
What really dragged my rating down was McKenna. She fought Rip every step of the way. I get that her parent’s marriage really left her with some issues, but still. He was in front of her telling her that he wanted her, a relationship with her, and for them to be endgame. He layed all of his feelings out on the table multiple times and she either brushed it off or just kept thinking it wasn’t what he really wanted. It got old pretty fast.
Besides some of the actions of our heroine here, I enjoyed everything else. We have a swoony love interest and a good group of friends to read about. If you enjoy low angst romances and small towns, then you might enjoy this one.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.
This was a low angst romance and those are my favorites. We have a best friend's brother romance without all of the drama because the best friend was actually hoping they would get together. That alone was refreshing!
I liked Rip and McKenna together. They were cute and the chemistry between them was there even though they didn’t see each other in the time she went away to college. I don’t know how many times I can say that I love a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t hesitate to go after it. Rip knew he wanted McKenna and wasted no time making his moves and letting her know.
What really dragged my rating down was McKenna. She fought Rip every step of the way. I get that her parent’s marriage really left her with some issues, but still. He was in front of her telling her that he wanted her, a relationship with her, and for them to be endgame. He layed all of his feelings out on the table multiple times and she either brushed it off or just kept thinking it wasn’t what he really wanted. It got old pretty fast.
Besides some of the actions of our heroine here, I enjoyed everything else. We have a swoony love interest and a good group of friends to read about. If you enjoy low angst romances and small towns, then you might enjoy this one.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.
June 22, 2021
Oh My Swoon!!! Once again Kaylee Ryan has swept me off my feet. I can’t even begin to tell you all how much I love this author and her words. In all honesty, I was feeling pretty down and blue on life, and I’m telling you all, as soon as I started Forever After All my mood did a complete turnaround! This book pulled me out of the funk I was in, so a big thank you goes out to Kaylee Ryan for bringing Rip and McKenna into my life!
In My Own Words:
Forever After All by Kaylee Ryan is a contemporary small town romance. It’s a tale of true love at it’s finest.
Rip and McKenna grew up together and through teenage years there was always an unspoken attraction between the two. But McKenna had dreams of going to law school and taking over her grandfather’s law firm, so Rip buried his feelings down deep and let McKenna go.
Now, five years later, McKenna is back where she belongs and Rip isn’t about to let her get away again. He’s all in and he’ll do everything he can to get McKenna to see he’s serious, she’s his one and only.
My Thoughts:
Everything about this novel is everything I needed in my life. From the swoon to the heart of it all, Forever After All was a read I won’t be able to forget anytime soon!! Kaylee Ryan knows her way around writing and bringing swoony heroes to life! Rip is a down home country boy. He spends his days running his farms and his nights dreaming about the one girl he wants and is patiently waiting for. This man is the epitome of what a book boyfriend truly is. I couldn’t get enough of this hero!
McKenna is your typical, you can take the girl out of the country but you can’t take the country out of the girl, character. This girl is true to her roots, true to her family, and true to her friends. She’s kind hearted but isn’t afraid to go for what she wants, unless it involves a sexy as sin cowboy, and then she’s a tiny bit afraid. I loved her strong willed mind mixed with her sweetheart vibes. She was the perfect match for Rip!! Bottom line, I loved these two together. There was a perfect mixture of sweet and sexy with a tiny bit of angst mingled in there. My heart is full and my smile is still in place.
As for the tropes, I’m a sucker for small town romances. Kaylee Ryan’s small town romances bring a sense of nostalgia to mind. Rip and McKenna’s small town romance had me wanting to hop in the truck, point it north and head back home for the weekend. I now crave those balmy Boone's Farm bonfire nights.
So if you love small town romances with strong feel good vibes and loads of heat and heart don’t hesitate to pick up Forever After All!
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The Staircase Reader
June 12, 2021
Was so excited when I got this and it was worth every page, as always my FULL REVIEWS & More on my BLOG -> CLICK HERE
June 23, 2021
"This was such a wonderful best friend/brother’s romance, with the small town vibe that makes for the best kind of romance story.
There are lots of twists and turns in Rip and McKenna’s relationship, with some unexpected surprises in their journey of love. Who doesn’t love a cowboy that makes your week in the knees and says all the right things. Rip is one hot cowboy, but he also has a wonderful sweet side too.
A great addition to add to your summer reading list. Congrats to Kaylee Ryan on another 5 star read. " ~Stephanie
"I love me an alpha male, and Rip is all that and a bag of chips, but he also has this sweet and softer side that I couldn’t get enough of. He alone had me hooked on this story, but then there is McKenna - who I just want to hug on and not ever let go. But the supporting characters were all outstanding as well.
I just loved stepping in to this small town romance. Everyone is tight nit and knows everyone’s business but I so want to experience that myself whenever I read this genre. And Kaylee has written an outstanding version that I feel like I could just rave on about for days and days. I honestly am having withdrawals and I just want more!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book." ~Sharon
Rip and McKenna have been life long friends. Rip’s sister is actually McKenna’s best friend. There have been feelings on both sides for a good long time that neither have acted upon. This is a sweet quick read that I breezed through and thoroughly enjoyed. I did get a little aggravated with McKenna and all her resistance and that is the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars. At times, I just wanted to smack her silly. Rip is any women’s dream! This is a great summer sitting by the pool or sitting on the beach read. ~Helen
I just loved how even as little kids these 2 were drawn to one another and had dreams of marrying one another...little did they know some of their dreams would come true.
This was another 5 star read from this author. She has a way of sucking you right in and making you feel like you are one of the characters in her books. Loved, Loved, Loved it!!! ~Jen
There are lots of twists and turns in Rip and McKenna’s relationship, with some unexpected surprises in their journey of love. Who doesn’t love a cowboy that makes your week in the knees and says all the right things. Rip is one hot cowboy, but he also has a wonderful sweet side too.
A great addition to add to your summer reading list. Congrats to Kaylee Ryan on another 5 star read. " ~Stephanie
"I love me an alpha male, and Rip is all that and a bag of chips, but he also has this sweet and softer side that I couldn’t get enough of. He alone had me hooked on this story, but then there is McKenna - who I just want to hug on and not ever let go. But the supporting characters were all outstanding as well.
I just loved stepping in to this small town romance. Everyone is tight nit and knows everyone’s business but I so want to experience that myself whenever I read this genre. And Kaylee has written an outstanding version that I feel like I could just rave on about for days and days. I honestly am having withdrawals and I just want more!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book." ~Sharon
Rip and McKenna have been life long friends. Rip’s sister is actually McKenna’s best friend. There have been feelings on both sides for a good long time that neither have acted upon. This is a sweet quick read that I breezed through and thoroughly enjoyed. I did get a little aggravated with McKenna and all her resistance and that is the reason for 4 instead of 5 stars. At times, I just wanted to smack her silly. Rip is any women’s dream! This is a great summer sitting by the pool or sitting on the beach read. ~Helen
I just loved how even as little kids these 2 were drawn to one another and had dreams of marrying one another...little did they know some of their dreams would come true.
This was another 5 star read from this author. She has a way of sucking you right in and making you feel like you are one of the characters in her books. Loved, Loved, Loved it!!! ~Jen
June 22, 2021
Forever After All is a touching small town romance that holds your heart tight in its grip. Rip and Kenna pretended to marry as children do and have fantasized about a forever after all with each other unbeknownst to the other for what feels like an eternity. When Kenna finally returns to her home town Rip decides he is ready to claim what is his. As old wounds bring out Kenna’s insecurities Rip will need to show her that his heart truly belongs to her and that this is not a game for him. This heartfelt best friends brother romance has push and pull, passion, chemistry and romance to have you enamoured by the characters and their story. Rip will have you swooning as this man wears his heart on his sleeve when it comes to Kenna. Kenna will have your heart aching as she struggles with the battle between the love she feels and the past that has doubts clouding her vision. A beautiful love story that has your emotions running high as these two fight for a forever after all.
February 6, 2023
Once again Kaylee Ryan creates characters the reader falls instantly in love with and with just the first few paragraphs in the prologue tugs on our heart strings and does not let go. From an early age Kip and McKenna were bound to be in each others lives but it takes one trip to Vegas to bring the two even closer. Will Kenna open up her heart and forget about the baggage from her past? Can you really fall in love and not realize it until it smacks you in the face? With sweet and tender moments combined with some that make the reader swoon this was another fabulous read from Kaylee Ryan. Filled with heart and soul and wrap it all up with honesty and emotions this will be a book that I will read again and again.
November 24, 2024
Rip gave me the ick. Couldn’t even finish the book. He was controlling and toxic. Trying to tell her what she couldn’t and couldn’t wear, wouldn’t even let her visit her sick grandfather without him?!
They slept together for the first time and she had no recollection because she was drunk so clearly didn’t give her consent. Disgusting man. So many major red flags.
“I know today has been a lot, waking up to hear that her grandfather was in hospital, finding out that we slept together last night and cutting our trip short was a lot to process”. LIKE SERIOUSLY?! He actually gives me creeps. Couldn’t read anymore after that sentence 🤢
They slept together for the first time and she had no recollection because she was drunk so clearly didn’t give her consent. Disgusting man. So many major red flags.
“I know today has been a lot, waking up to hear that her grandfather was in hospital, finding out that we slept together last night and cutting our trip short was a lot to process”. LIKE SERIOUSLY?! He actually gives me creeps. Couldn’t read anymore after that sentence 🤢
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2021
This is my favorite Kaylee Ryan book. Hands down!!! I love Rip and McKenna so so much! And this is my favorite kind of genre. Words can’t describe my love for these two. I fell hard and fast into this book! And I couldn’t put it down while reading. Rip is everything and McKenna is the sweetest. Not to mention Laramie, Colby, and Corbin too. This family. This book has so much family in it and I just couldn’t live it anymore. Plus that small town feeling that I love too. That’s all the words I have because there are none that could describe this book in all its glory anymore!
June 22, 2022
DNF @23% - DO NOT RECOMMEND
One of worst books I’ve read. The author wants the reader to believe this dumb as rocks female lead who cant take a hint and is just so clueless about the guy who likes her, is a Harvard law school grad. This book is absolutely terrible.
One of worst books I’ve read. The author wants the reader to believe this dumb as rocks female lead who cant take a hint and is just so clueless about the guy who likes her, is a Harvard law school grad. This book is absolutely terrible.
August 7, 2024
The combination of juvenile writing and very young sounding narrators really made me have a hard time getting through this. It is very insta love with very little character development but other than that it was an enjoyable enough read.
May 30, 2021
All I can say is that this book was amazing!! I couldn't put it down and I can't wait to read more about the rest of the characters in the book!
June 20, 2021
Another hit from Kaylee Ryan! McKenna and Rip have had crushes and feelings for each other since childhood, but nobody ever acted on them because of their relationship as friends and the fact that McKenna was Rip’s little sister’s best friend. As the years passed, they remained friends but always harbored feelings and were jealous when the other was in relationships, and when McKenna moves away for college, Rip feels like he lost his chance – until she returns home 4 years later and decides he’s going to shoot his shot with her and tell her how he really feels, and she surprises him by informing him of her feelings as well. This book definitely gave all the feels, especially as this couple navigated moving from friends into something more, while also dealing with all the things that could tear them apart. I wish that we would’ve gotten Laramie’s full story but having her story as a secondary one in this book made the storyline extra special. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 22, 2021
Gah! Talk about sweet and swoony! Kaylee has done it again with Forever After All. I fell in love with her characters and didn’t want it to end. It was the perfect romance!
McKenna was back home after law school and was ready to figure out the rest of her life. Her best friend’s brother was still in town and her attraction to him was stronger than ever. Would she finally be able to do something about it?
Rip knew he shouldn’t still be wanting his little sister’s best friend. The kids they shared years ago played on repeat in his head. Now that she was back, one weekend was all it was supposed to be, or could it really be forever?
These two! The chemistry they had!! There were definitely fireworks going off whenever they were together. I hope this wasn’t the last time we saw them!
McKenna was back home after law school and was ready to figure out the rest of her life. Her best friend’s brother was still in town and her attraction to him was stronger than ever. Would she finally be able to do something about it?
Rip knew he shouldn’t still be wanting his little sister’s best friend. The kids they shared years ago played on repeat in his head. Now that she was back, one weekend was all it was supposed to be, or could it really be forever?
These two! The chemistry they had!! There were definitely fireworks going off whenever they were together. I hope this wasn’t the last time we saw them!
July 10, 2021
Oh my swoon
This book was perfect. I loved everything. The love was perfect. The story was so so sweet. And all the friends and family in the book were goals. The story was full of love. Not overly smutty, but chemistry was there and the happy ever after was a favorite.
This book was perfect. I loved everything. The love was perfect. The story was so so sweet. And all the friends and family in the book were goals. The story was full of love. Not overly smutty, but chemistry was there and the happy ever after was a favorite.
July 28, 2022
One of my new favorites!!!
March 14, 2025
why do I keep reading these?
Forever After All is yet another installment in Kaylee Ryan’s formulaic romance catalog, and I keep reading them purely out of curiosity—just to see how closely they stick to her usual patterns.
The male lead in this book Rip, like so many of Ryan’s heroes, has no discernible personality, hobbies, or interests outside of being completely absorbed in the female lead, McKenna. His idea of romance leans heavily into possessiveness, which Ryan frames as sweet and devoted. While some readers might find it charming, it often comes across as overbearing.
I had to laugh when I realized that McKenna was supposed to be a Harvard Law graduate on track to become a lawyer. Ryan doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to writing well-developed characters, and McKenna never actually feels like someone who went to Harvard, passed the bar, or has the intelligence and ambition that would require. Instead, she spends much of the book doubting the male lead’s interest in her, despite his repeated reassurances. This miscommunication-fueled insecurity is a staple of Ryan’s books, and it gets repetitive fast.
If you’re playing Kaylee Ryan Bingo, you’ll find all the usual tropes in this book:
• The female lead inevitably spends the night at the male lead’s house, and of course, he gives her one of his shirts to sleep in. Not just any shirt—it has to be his, and he makes a big deal out of it, as does she. This scene happens so often in Ryan’s books that it might as well be a required plot point.
• An excessive amount of takeout and bland food descriptions. Spices? Never heard of them.
• The characters are always described as being in incredible physical shape, yet there’s little to no mention of them actually working out or doing anything active. Instead, they drink constantly, eat out all the time, and somehow maintain perfect physiques through sheer force of will.
• The male lead struggles to function without being in close proximity to the female lead. Even if they’re at the same bar but on opposite sides of the room, he can’t stand it for more than ten minutes before he has to be near her again. His entire world revolves around her, leaving little room for friendships, personal interests, or anything else.
Did I love this book? Not really. Will I keep reading Ryan’s books? Probably, if only to continue marveling at how consistently she sticks to the same formula. There’s something oddly fascinating about how predictable they are—it’s almost an art form at this point.
Forever After All is yet another installment in Kaylee Ryan’s formulaic romance catalog, and I keep reading them purely out of curiosity—just to see how closely they stick to her usual patterns.
The male lead in this book Rip, like so many of Ryan’s heroes, has no discernible personality, hobbies, or interests outside of being completely absorbed in the female lead, McKenna. His idea of romance leans heavily into possessiveness, which Ryan frames as sweet and devoted. While some readers might find it charming, it often comes across as overbearing.
I had to laugh when I realized that McKenna was supposed to be a Harvard Law graduate on track to become a lawyer. Ryan doesn’t have the best track record when it comes to writing well-developed characters, and McKenna never actually feels like someone who went to Harvard, passed the bar, or has the intelligence and ambition that would require. Instead, she spends much of the book doubting the male lead’s interest in her, despite his repeated reassurances. This miscommunication-fueled insecurity is a staple of Ryan’s books, and it gets repetitive fast.
If you’re playing Kaylee Ryan Bingo, you’ll find all the usual tropes in this book:
• The female lead inevitably spends the night at the male lead’s house, and of course, he gives her one of his shirts to sleep in. Not just any shirt—it has to be his, and he makes a big deal out of it, as does she. This scene happens so often in Ryan’s books that it might as well be a required plot point.
• An excessive amount of takeout and bland food descriptions. Spices? Never heard of them.
• The characters are always described as being in incredible physical shape, yet there’s little to no mention of them actually working out or doing anything active. Instead, they drink constantly, eat out all the time, and somehow maintain perfect physiques through sheer force of will.
• The male lead struggles to function without being in close proximity to the female lead. Even if they’re at the same bar but on opposite sides of the room, he can’t stand it for more than ten minutes before he has to be near her again. His entire world revolves around her, leaving little room for friendships, personal interests, or anything else.
Did I love this book? Not really. Will I keep reading Ryan’s books? Probably, if only to continue marveling at how consistently she sticks to the same formula. There’s something oddly fascinating about how predictable they are—it’s almost an art form at this point.
May 26, 2021
Forever After All is the book that grips you with the biggest hug after feeling lonely for so long. It was all warm and fuzzy and made my heart so so happy. As always, I adore this authors work. Forever After All is a great representation of this authors ability to create one of a kind stories that turn you into a pile of goo.
I am a fan favorite of the trope that this storyline held and the good news? This author made it her own. It was an Kaylee Ryan original with amazing development and depth. The pace was well plotted out, and the dialogue was to die for. The sense of familiarity between all the characters had me feeling like I was right at home. I loved how Forever After All was kind of like a slow-burn considering the feelings involved. I loved how these characters exuded patience to make sure things were as they should be before starting something. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.
I loved Rip and McKenna as a couple, but as individuals they were great. They are both driven in their personal lives, and professional. Both family oriented in a special way, that shows you how much family means to them. Speaking of family, I loved how much the side characters were involved with their story. They too were very supportive and close.
Forever After All is the book that left a smile on my face, and I know it will do it to many others as well. With that said, I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!
I am a fan favorite of the trope that this storyline held and the good news? This author made it her own. It was an Kaylee Ryan original with amazing development and depth. The pace was well plotted out, and the dialogue was to die for. The sense of familiarity between all the characters had me feeling like I was right at home. I loved how Forever After All was kind of like a slow-burn considering the feelings involved. I loved how these characters exuded patience to make sure things were as they should be before starting something. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.
I loved Rip and McKenna as a couple, but as individuals they were great. They are both driven in their personal lives, and professional. Both family oriented in a special way, that shows you how much family means to them. Speaking of family, I loved how much the side characters were involved with their story. They too were very supportive and close.
Forever After All is the book that left a smile on my face, and I know it will do it to many others as well. With that said, I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!
March 12, 2023
2.5⭐️
The concept of a small town, best friend’s older brother, right person/wrong time romance definitely pulled me in on this one, however, it left me wanting. I found myself very bored throughout the entire book. It’s mostly dialogue with hardly any plot. I originally liked Rip and Kenna as a couple; they definitely had chemistry and a super sweet history. However, Kenna annoyed me so much with how she just couldn’t believe that Rip wanted to be with her. It was beyond obvious that he was pursuing her(cuddling, kissing, asking to spend time with her, holding her hand, even calling her “his girl”) and she acted dumb as rocks and in total disbelief when he asked her to be his girlfriend. I understand she had past trauma that influenced her feelings of self doubt, but it was still a little far fetched.
Rip was a little too much for me. I believe he was written to be gentlemanly and going for what he wants, but it came across too pushy. He doesn’t even want to hear Kenna out when she wants to talk about their relationship or include her in on half of the decisions regarding their relationship. It was supposed to be endearing, but felt more toxic than anything. All in all, I was just bored and disappointed with this one. It was good enough for me to finish, but I didn’t really enjoy it.
The concept of a small town, best friend’s older brother, right person/wrong time romance definitely pulled me in on this one, however, it left me wanting. I found myself very bored throughout the entire book. It’s mostly dialogue with hardly any plot. I originally liked Rip and Kenna as a couple; they definitely had chemistry and a super sweet history. However, Kenna annoyed me so much with how she just couldn’t believe that Rip wanted to be with her. It was beyond obvious that he was pursuing her(cuddling, kissing, asking to spend time with her, holding her hand, even calling her “his girl”) and she acted dumb as rocks and in total disbelief when he asked her to be his girlfriend. I understand she had past trauma that influenced her feelings of self doubt, but it was still a little far fetched.
Rip was a little too much for me. I believe he was written to be gentlemanly and going for what he wants, but it came across too pushy. He doesn’t even want to hear Kenna out when she wants to talk about their relationship or include her in on half of the decisions regarding their relationship. It was supposed to be endearing, but felt more toxic than anything. All in all, I was just bored and disappointed with this one. It was good enough for me to finish, but I didn’t really enjoy it.
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June 17, 2021
Rip and McKenna have known each other practically their whole lives. McKenna has always had a crush on Rip and it really wasn’t any secret, well except to him. Rip had always felt something for McKenna, but didn’t want start anything and have her not go after her dream.
I loved the friendship between Rip and McKenna from the start. You could see how much he cared about her and how he was protective of her, even when they were children. There was always something bringing them together. As they got older that protectiveness was still there and Rip wasn’t going to let go of the woman who has always had his heart. There are so many sweet moments between them, some steamy moments and some swoony moments.
The secondary characters in this story add so much to the overall story and to their relationship. I couldn’t get enough of them.
Forever After All was such a beautiful story from the sweet moments in the prologue to the beautiful epilogue that had me shedding a tear or two.
If you’re looking for a best friends brother, friends to lovers romance this is one to check out!
I loved the friendship between Rip and McKenna from the start. You could see how much he cared about her and how he was protective of her, even when they were children. There was always something bringing them together. As they got older that protectiveness was still there and Rip wasn’t going to let go of the woman who has always had his heart. There are so many sweet moments between them, some steamy moments and some swoony moments.
The secondary characters in this story add so much to the overall story and to their relationship. I couldn’t get enough of them.
Forever After All was such a beautiful story from the sweet moments in the prologue to the beautiful epilogue that had me shedding a tear or two.
If you’re looking for a best friends brother, friends to lovers romance this is one to check out!
March 26, 2022
My reviews always contain spoilers, I write them so I can remember the story.
McKenna and Rip have been friends almost their whole lives. They both love each other but neither says anything. When Kenna returns after getting her law degree Rip decides to make his move. He gave her the chance to fulfill her dream of working as a lawyers her grandfather’s firm. Their friends have them recreate the wedding they held when they were kids in their treehouse. Rip means his vows and knows he��s going to make them for real to her one day. It takes Kenna a while to get onboard, she loves him but is very afraid of trapping him. Her dad always said her mom trapped him by getting pregnant with her, and her mom always told her she was a mistake. When they die she comes to live with her grandparents who love her very much. Rip finally convinces her to date and they start to see each other regularly and are sleeping together. A surprise pregnancy almost derails everything but Rip won’t let her run from him, he fights for her and tells her he loves her and alway has and he’s excited about the baby. Epilogue with their daughter and a new little one on the way.
McKenna and Rip have been friends almost their whole lives. They both love each other but neither says anything. When Kenna returns after getting her law degree Rip decides to make his move. He gave her the chance to fulfill her dream of working as a lawyers her grandfather’s firm. Their friends have them recreate the wedding they held when they were kids in their treehouse. Rip means his vows and knows he��s going to make them for real to her one day. It takes Kenna a while to get onboard, she loves him but is very afraid of trapping him. Her dad always said her mom trapped him by getting pregnant with her, and her mom always told her she was a mistake. When they die she comes to live with her grandparents who love her very much. Rip finally convinces her to date and they start to see each other regularly and are sleeping together. A surprise pregnancy almost derails everything but Rip won’t let her run from him, he fights for her and tells her he loves her and alway has and he’s excited about the baby. Epilogue with their daughter and a new little one on the way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2024
Forever After All is a small town contemporary romance. There were elements of the plot and characters that I enjoyed, and some were less satisfying.
The sexual tension between the main characters McKenna and Rip was undeniable.They had a solid connection, a good foundation of friendship, and great chemistry. I was initially invested in their changing relationship, but I eventually lost some of that excitement.
Rip was kind, thoughtful, and very all-in with McKenna, but he was almost over the top and pushy. It was hot at first, and then it wasn't. While I can take McKenna's traumatic childhood history into consideration, the number of times she questioned Rip wanting to be with her, when he was so unwavering and loud about it, felt repetitive. The "best friend's older brother" trope was also used and mentioned more than necessary to create drama where there was none. It wasn't an obstacle or issue for anyone ever in the story. Except McKenna.
In the end, Forever After All left me with mixed feelings. I have very much loved other work by Kaylee Ryan, but this just wasn't a favorite.
The sexual tension between the main characters McKenna and Rip was undeniable.They had a solid connection, a good foundation of friendship, and great chemistry. I was initially invested in their changing relationship, but I eventually lost some of that excitement.
Rip was kind, thoughtful, and very all-in with McKenna, but he was almost over the top and pushy. It was hot at first, and then it wasn't. While I can take McKenna's traumatic childhood history into consideration, the number of times she questioned Rip wanting to be with her, when he was so unwavering and loud about it, felt repetitive. The "best friend's older brother" trope was also used and mentioned more than necessary to create drama where there was none. It wasn't an obstacle or issue for anyone ever in the story. Except McKenna.
In the end, Forever After All left me with mixed feelings. I have very much loved other work by Kaylee Ryan, but this just wasn't a favorite.
June 17, 2021
4 Star Review Forever After All by Kaylee Ryan
Kaylee Ryan is a new author to me and why I have not across her books before I have no idea. As soon as time permits I will be looking at other books she has written. From the first chapter to the last I was hooked on the story that Ms.Ryan wove about McKenna and Rip, her best friends’ brother.
For as long as McKenna can remember she has been planning her wedding to Rip, that is until she moved away for college. Now returning home, everywhere she turns, she finds Rip. A Rip, that is determined to get McKenna to see the attraction that sizzles between and convince her it is too intense to ignore.
For Rip he struggles with the feelings he has for McKenna, after all the last thing he should have are feelings for his sisters best friend, but some time things are to hard to ignore.
However some things are meant to be and when circumstances bring them together they
realize that it could be the start of a forever love. Their road will be rocky but if they can can make it through then it will be worth it.
Kaylee Ryan is a new author to me and why I have not across her books before I have no idea. As soon as time permits I will be looking at other books she has written. From the first chapter to the last I was hooked on the story that Ms.Ryan wove about McKenna and Rip, her best friends’ brother.
For as long as McKenna can remember she has been planning her wedding to Rip, that is until she moved away for college. Now returning home, everywhere she turns, she finds Rip. A Rip, that is determined to get McKenna to see the attraction that sizzles between and convince her it is too intense to ignore.
For Rip he struggles with the feelings he has for McKenna, after all the last thing he should have are feelings for his sisters best friend, but some time things are to hard to ignore.
However some things are meant to be and when circumstances bring them together they
realize that it could be the start of a forever love. Their road will be rocky but if they can can make it through then it will be worth it.
June 19, 2021
I'm a big fan of Kaylee.. All of her books I've read so far spoke to me and I couldn't help but fall in love with her characters.
Rip and Kenna have always been close and the secret crushes they had for each other were to strong to say away this time around. Her past is complicated and is preventing her to fully let go and enjoy the love he was showing her.
Sometimes is so hard to believe in words and actions of people when all you know is headaches and pain. But I was shedding happy tears when she finally let go off her past to ambrace her HEA with Rip!
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
Rip and Kenna have always been close and the secret crushes they had for each other were to strong to say away this time around. Her past is complicated and is preventing her to fully let go and enjoy the love he was showing her.
Sometimes is so hard to believe in words and actions of people when all you know is headaches and pain. But I was shedding happy tears when she finally let go off her past to ambrace her HEA with Rip!
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
June 22, 2021
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. I felt like this book was more of instalove which a lot of people really like, for me it really depends on the story. I loved how Rip and McKenna grew up together. When they were 7 and 9 there friendship was so cute. I think once some people leave its hard to get that back. But with Rip it felt like he was obsessed with her, at times I was like whoa buddy chill she got back. So ya those relationships can be hard to navigate. Plus your little sister best friend is always risky.
June 22, 2021
4.5 star
The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is McKenna and Rip's story. Forbidden that is what it is. She wants her best friend’s older brother. She wanted him forever, but she grew up and moved away. Now that she is back, he is everywhere she is. The pull is there, and they have been fighting it forever. Can they finally have a chance, or will she keep him at arm’s length? When a challenge turns into more and they figure out a way to a forever or will they have to figure out how to move on?
I highly recommend this book.
The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is McKenna and Rip's story. Forbidden that is what it is. She wants her best friend’s older brother. She wanted him forever, but she grew up and moved away. Now that she is back, he is everywhere she is. The pull is there, and they have been fighting it forever. Can they finally have a chance, or will she keep him at arm’s length? When a challenge turns into more and they figure out a way to a forever or will they have to figure out how to move on?
I highly recommend this book.
June 1, 2021
Forever After All was such a great best friends brother/friends to lovers story!
Rip and McKenna grew up together and have both secretly crushed on each other for years. I really loved Rip, he was swoony, sweet and a really great guy. McKenna was sweet. Rip and McKenna had such great chemistry and were just perfect for each other! Loved loved them. Loved all the secondary characters as well!! Definitely recommend this.
Rip and McKenna grew up together and have both secretly crushed on each other for years. I really loved Rip, he was swoony, sweet and a really great guy. McKenna was sweet. Rip and McKenna had such great chemistry and were just perfect for each other! Loved loved them. Loved all the secondary characters as well!! Definitely recommend this.
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February 3, 2024Books like this are so frustrating. He wants to be with her. She wants to be with him. He kisses her. He touches her. She thinks she is imagining things and what, that he acts this way toward other women? For someone who just took the bar exam, she sure is dumb as rocks. What's the problem? I don't understand.
Also, based on the picture on the cover, no one believes the lead characters are 25 and 24. They look older, especially the female.
Also, based on the picture on the cover, no one believes the lead characters are 25 and 24. They look older, especially the female.
March 14, 2025
This was so disappointing. The heroine frustrated me—she had a crush on him, so why was she pushing him away the entire book?
They said 'I love you,' but I just couldn’t believe it. And don’t even get me started on the surprise pregnancy trope—I fucking hate it, and it just made me angry. I couldn’t feel the love between the main couple, and honestly, I didn’t feel it between the side couple either.
They said 'I love you,' but I just couldn’t believe it. And don’t even get me started on the surprise pregnancy trope—I fucking hate it, and it just made me angry. I couldn’t feel the love between the main couple, and honestly, I didn’t feel it between the side couple either.
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