21 November 2022

I loved Carrie Soto is Back and Alicia raves about this author, which led me to add another one of her books to my TBR. I decided to start at the beginning when placing an order for Forever, Interrupted. What I must tell you upfront is that I am not a romance fan. It’s the one genre I would give a miss every time. When I hear the word romance – I envision the old Mills & Boon books – which I did pick up during my younger years. (I admit that with some embarrassment). This book was certainly not in that category – thank heavens. I found this to be a moving read that was more about self-discovery with romance in the background.

Taylor Jenkins Reid creates realistic characters who are flawed people who crawl into your heart. This author writes deeply emotional stories that will leave you shedding a tear occasionally. This book was brilliantly written and while I generally cringe at the mention of a romance novel, I will read more of this author’s work.

Elsie Porter was not expecting to fall in love when she met Ben Ross while waiting for a takeaway pizza. They share an instant connection and the chemistry between them is electrifying. Elsie and Ben decide to ignore the general rules and rush into a whirlwind romance that has them getting married within six months of meeting.  Nine days after their wedding, Ben is killed while riding his bike. Elsie is left shattered and forced to deal with Ben’s mother whom she has never met. Struggling with the sudden loss of Ben these two women who both loved him dearly are forced to come together to find peace and closure. Desperate to find a way to move forward, while not wishing to live a life without Ben.

This book had me glued to the pages. I found the rushed romance surreal and while my heart broke for Elsie, I understood Susan’s emotions as well. The conflict between mother and wife was brilliant. I loved that the author managed to add just a touch of humour to the story, if she didn’t this book would have been terribly depressing.

Elsie Porter is a brilliant character. You are introduced to this young woman at the worst time in her life and you experience her loss with her. My heart broke for her. As more about her and Ben’s relationship is revealed you are allowed to get to know Elsie before her world fell apart and you share in her doubts and excitement as her relationship with Ben developed. There was only one part in this story where I felt Elsie was selfish and inconsiderate. Looking back on the story, she was hurt and struggling with the grief of losing Ben – but all that did not justify the way she treats Ana.

Ana is the friend we all want. This woman is perfection. She is loyal and dedicated and does everything she can to help Elsie – even when it seems nothing she does is doing any good. Ana is patient and supportive. I loved when she finally snapped at Elsie – because while the moment appeared insensitive, it was exactly what Elsie needed.

Susan – Ben’s mother – is introduced as cold and insensitive. Your first thought is that she is a horrible woman because you are caught up in Elsie’s emotions. However, when you take a moment to step back and consider what Susan is going through, her reactions are almost justified. This woman manages to appear completely composed and never shows her true feelings. As the story continues you eventually see a different side to Susan which makes you understand her. This woman is a remarkably strong character.

I guess this is where I admit that I loved this book, even though it is a romance. I would never have believed that I would admit that. There you have it, proof that you should never judge a book by its cover – or by its genre.

If you are looking for a book about personal growth, love and surviving tragedy then you will not go wrong reaching for this book. You will find yourself deeply engrossed as you flip from page to page. I would highly recommend this book – even if romance is not your thing.