The Forever Girl

November 2, 2020
Shalvis returns to Wildstone, Calif., (after The Summer Deal) with a standalone contemporary romance that focuses on how relationships can overcome secrets, shame, and guilt. Eleven years ago, the Walsh family briefly took in foster kids Maze, Heather, and Walker and raised them alongside their own children, Cat and Michael. The teens spent a blissful year on the central California coast before Michael’s death tore them apart. Maze has cut herself off from the others ever since—but now Cat is getting married and brings them all back together to help her plan her wedding. No longer “Mayhem Maze,” Maze tries to be there for Cat while navigating her complicated relationships with Heather and Walker. In particular, she and Walker must decide whether their long-simmering chemistry is enough to propel them into an adult relationship. Though the pace is slow, Shalvis capably weaves the complex, intertwining relationships into an appealing story of second chances. This is sure to satisfy. Agent: Robin Rue, Writer’s House.

Four estranged friends reunite as one of them is about to get married, and narrator Erin Mallon brings the listener on the emotional journey that ensues. The bride, Cat, persuades Maze, Heather, and Walker to spend the week. Mallon gives each a distinct voice that allows listeners to easily follow along. The youngest, Heather, has a light voice. The pacing quickens as Cat's anxiety deepens over her upcoming nuptials. Maze and Walker have a history together, and the listener feels the tension as Mallon's voice tightens. When long-buried passion ignites between them, Mallon gives both their voices a husky quality. Listeners will be rooting for the friends to overcome their past and find happiness. S.B. � AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine