A review by rachaelarsenault
With You Forever by Chloe Liese
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I really, really loved this book, especially how it explored both chronic illness and autism. I appreciated the parallels in Axel and Rooney's experiences, and how they struggle to trust and be vulnerable, and the idea that living with an invisible disability often means you hide a part of yourself from people around you, simply because your condition/experiences aren't something they'll ever fully understand or respect, no matter how well-meaning they may be. I thought it was handled with care and nuance.
I also loved both Axel and Rooney as characters. I understood and empathized with both their perspectives, I loved seeing them come together and open up, and I found their relationship an easy one to root for.
The third act conflict was predictable, but I don't think that's a bad thing, and I think it was handled well and resolved beautifully.
I also really appreciated the casual queer rep in this story, not just in the form of Bennet and Parker or the offhand mention of a WLW relationship in the background. I caught a few instances where characters were talking to Axel about a potential partner, but because the conversation was hypothetical and/or they weren't sure what his preferences were, the characters involved defaulted to neutral pronouns. I just thought it was a really nice touch. (Also, I don't recall Axel ever actually specifying his gender preferences, so... possible queer MC?)
All in all, I really loved this book and definitely recommend picking it up.
I also loved both Axel and Rooney as characters. I understood and empathized with both their perspectives, I loved seeing them come together and open up, and I found their relationship an easy one to root for.
The third act conflict was predictable, but I don't think that's a bad thing, and I think it was handled well and resolved beautifully.
I also really appreciated the casual queer rep in this story, not just in the form of Bennet and Parker or the offhand mention of a WLW relationship in the background. I caught a few instances where characters were talking to Axel about a potential partner, but because the conversation was hypothetical and/or they weren't sure what his preferences were, the characters involved defaulted to neutral pronouns. I just thought it was a really nice touch. (Also, I don't recall Axel ever actually specifying his gender preferences, so... possible queer MC?)
All in all, I really loved this book and definitely recommend picking it up.