The Problem With Forever - Jennifer L. Armentrout
Book Synopsis: For some people, silence is a weapon. For Mallory “Mouse” Dodge, it’s a shield. Growing up, she learned that the best way to survive was to say nothing. And even though it’s been four years since her nightmare ended, she’s beginning to worry that the fear that holds her back will last a lifetime.
Now, after years of homeschooling with loving adoptive parents, Mallory must face a new milestone—spending her senior year at public high school. But of all the terrifying and exhilarating scenarios she’s imagined, there’s one she never dreamed of—that she’d run into Rider Stark, the friend and protector she hasn’t seen since childhood, on her very first day.
It doesn’t take long for Mallory to realize that the connection she shared with Rider never really faded. Yet the deeper their bond grows, the more it becomes apparent that she’s not the only one grappling with the lingering scars from the past. And as she watches Rider’s life spiral out of control, Mallory faces a choice between staying silent and speaking out—for the people she loves, the life she wants, and the truths that need to be heard.
I expected much more from this book, especially after reading: Don't Look Back. This book fell a little flat for me and I ended up being disappointed after hearing and seeing all the hype that surrounded this novel. Child abuse is one of those issues that are very tricky to write about, the author has to capture the mood, the emotions, and the heartbreak and suffering that the victims go through. And although she did touch on many of the facets of the issue, I didn't feel that it was strong enough, and the scenarios felt a little unrealistic.
Mallory "Mouse" Dodge was the main character that faced a tragic past that haunted her and scarred her deeply - both physically and emotionally. Using silence as her shield and defense mechanism against the world was a way of coping from the traumatic events of four years ago. Rider Stark is too perfect, the way the author described him and his predictable nature and role in Mallory's life was a real turn-off for me. Both of them grew up together in the same disastrous and scary foster home where they felt unloved, scared, and relied on each other for a shelter from the storm.
Paige was an unnecessary character. Her relationship with Rider and the way she treated Mallory was just crap. Honestly, the book would have been much better off without her.
Not to give too much away or spoil the story - there was a death, and it reminded me of the movie: Step Up. Seriously, the whole scene unfolded exactly the same.
This book dealt with abuse, love, trauma, and finding the courage to speak up. Although I wasn't a fan of the way the story flowed and I wouldn't recommend this book, I would still consider reading Jennifer's other novels.
Rating: ★★☆☆☆