Book Review: This Could Be Forever by [Author’s Name]
I recently had the delight of winning This Could Be Forever in a giveaway, and it arrived at just the right moment in my reading journey. I’ve always been drawn to stories that navigate the complexities of young love, especially within the frameworks of social issues, and this book promised just that. With a captivating blend of complexity and lightheartedness, I was intrigued to see how the author would handle these themes.
At its core, This Could Be Forever is a rich exploration of interpersonal relationships against the backdrop of cultural expectations. Deja and Raja, our leads, face the intricacies of interracial dating, and their experiences felt rooted in authentic dialogues about the subtleties of being young and in love. The author’s attention to detail is evident—there’s a delicacy in how they handle the topic of arranged marriages, presenting it not as a villainous concept but as another avenue for love. This nuance was refreshing to encounter, and it added depth to the characters’ lives and decisions.
However, while I could genuinely appreciate the intent behind their voices, I found myself grappling with the execution. Both Deja and Raja often felt a tad too polished, almost like they were flipping through a well-researched pamphlet on activism. The dialogue sometimes struck me as cringeworthy, lacking the natural flow typical of young adults today. I couldn’t shake the feeling that Raja, especially, didn’t quite reflect the average young adult male. Sure, there are well-informed and socially conscious teenagers out there, but their conversational dynamics often felt unnatural for the age group.
The pacing of the story had its ups and downs. As engaging as the plot was, it took me a while to get through it. On one hand, the exploration of college life—especially Raja’s decision to stay local to ease the transition for his immigrant parents—felt like an authentic representation. I, too, chose the local route for my college experience, and it’s nice to see that reflected in literature. But at the same time, the weight of the social issues sometimes overshadowed the lighter moments that I craved. The pressure of navigating cultural barriers and familial expectations was palpable, making the read feel heavy rather than wholly enjoyable.
Despite these critiques, I found poignant moments that shone brightly, especially Deja’s relationship with her grandmother, Queenie. Their interactions brought joy and warmth to the narrative, reminding me of the importance of family ties amidst the chaos of young adulthood. Additionally, the storytelling does a commendable job of not forcing Deja to win over those who don’t accept her—something that often feels clichéd in similar novels.
In conclusion, while This Could Be Forever was a good read, it may not be for everyone. If you’re someone who enjoys stories tackling social issues wrapped in young romance, or if you appreciate nuanced discussions surrounding culture, you might find this book particularly engaging. However, if you prefer fluid dialogue and a more playful exploration of young love, you might find yourself wishing for more lightness.
For me, this book was a reflective experience—a balance of discomfort and insight, yet ultimately one that left me pondering long after the final page.