Now and Forever
Gr 7–10—When Sterling's boyfriend Ethan makes it big with the release of his first album, he becomes an overnight teen heartthrob with a viral online presence. Sterling, too, is pulled into the whirlwind as she follows him on tour and is featured in top celebrity magazines. She is even gifted with designer swag to dress the part. While the limelight is initially appealing, the teen eventually realizes the cost of living off her boyfriend's fame and in his shadow—she is ignoring her own interests and aspirations. Although the writing is not overly sophisticated or original (Ethan is regularly described as "hot" and the protagonist's reaction to him as "melting"), new romance readers will find a safe initiation here. There is a subtle mention of a shared bed, but even the kisses quietly fade to black. For fans of the author, Elizabeth Eulberg, and Sarah Dessen.—Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL