Kristina Forest

This is a book everyone should read. Whether you're an older YA reader figuring out how relationships work—between boyfriends, friends, siblings, and parents—or a New Adult navigating the pressures of changing high school dynamics, college decisions, and future plans, Heartsick speaks to you. Even parents wondering what their kids are really thinking and facing will find truth here. It’s a story that honors the convictions and beliefs that shape young lives.

Honestly, if I were asked to show more add something to a time capsule to show the world what today’s youth are experiencing, I’d choose this book. In 10, 25, 50, or even 100 years, Heartsick will still reflect their world in a clear, vivid, inclusive, and emotionally intelligent way. It left me wondering—again and again—about the good this generation will do as they move through the world.

Told in alternating POVs from Margot and Isaac, this story carries truth and power. It explores how young people navigate love and loss, rise to the challenges of today’s world, and find their way back to joy, first love, and the enduring power of youthful hope.

Reading sections aloud to My Guy, he laughed and blushed, reliving his own youth through Isaac. “Yup, that sounds about right,” he said with a shake of his head—and that moment alone tells you how real this book feels.

This book took me back to reading when I used to sit for hours hiding from chores and homework, waiting to grow up. If Nancy Drew and Joe Hardy had the book I always wanted, this would be it. Mystery, social consciousness, generational awareness, and a touch of second-chance romance—Heartsick is an all-age apparatus for anyone 14 and up, or any level of clean, sweet romance. It’s also an excellent read for any gender, because the understanding and awareness of love and connection is so beautifully rendered.

Kristina Forest writes with clarity, compassion, and a deep understanding of what it means to grow up in today’s world. I’ll be checking out her back catalogue and adding her to all my watch lists.

Perfect for older YA readers, New Adults, and anyone reflecting on the emotional architecture of youth. This is the kind of book you pass on, reread, and remember—because it sees you. show less

Evie is a young actress living in L.A. and has a legacy to live up to. Her parents are famous documentary film makers and her grandmother, Gigi, is a legendary actress. She has dreamed of following in Gigi's footsteps her whole life. Evie is about to launch into superstardom in a thriller movie with a famous director, when her best friend Simone betrays her by posting an embarrassing drunken video of Evie on social media. Evie's trust is shattered and she loses the movie role. She has a show more chance to star in the remake of her grandmother's most famous movie. All she needs is Gigi's blessing. She visits Gigi in New York and meets Gigi's friend Milo an aspiring teenage musician. Gigi subsequently vanishes and Evie and Milo search NYC for Gigi. At the beginning of the book, Evie's behavior is selfish. She is thinking only of what her grandmother can do for her career. She does not start off on the right foot with Milo. She grows a lot during the story and comes to realize that people are complex and that self worth should not be based on what others think of you. Now That I've Found You is a fun, fast-paced coming of age story. show less

Title: The Love Lyric

Author: Kristina Forest

Publisher: Berkley

Reviewed By: Arlena Dean

Rating: Five

Review:

'The Love Lyric' by Kristina Forest

My Insight:

"The Love Lyric" is a heartwarming read featuring the Green Sisters, mainly focusing on Iris, a widow navigating her new life. She finds herself drawn to Angel, a musician who seems like he should be off-limits, leading to a tension-filled relationship that raises questions about their circumstances. This book captures grief and drama and a show more budding romance that keeps the reader engaged.

The dynamic between Iris and Angel is compelling, and adding Iris's supportive sisters and her daughter further enhances the narrative. I appreciated the character development, especially how Iris learns to let go of her 'fear and obligation,' which allows her to grow. Kristina Forest expertly weaves together love, loss, and music themes, creating a rich, emotional experience. This story is a testament to her storytelling ability and is definitely a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. show less

Cute YA rom-com with lots of good lessons about finding confidence in yourself, not in other people's social media opinions. The heroine starts out pretty selfish and not particularly likable, but by the end of the story her actions show a great deal of growth and change, which is impressive given that the actions of the book take place over a week's time.

The secondary characters, specifically Milo and his band-mates, are given such full, diverse personalities that I would love to read a show more sequel about their climb to success and their various romantic relationships. I found myself wishing that their viral video (the wondrously named Leather Pants) was a real thing, because it sounds like a true #1 hit. And Milo is a swoony hero; how can you not love a 19 year old guy who genuinely cares about a reclusive senior citizen and takes care of her cats?

The book is appropriate for the younger age range of YA readers, with kisses only between the hero and heroine. Despite the serious themes, it's very much a rom-com that would make a darling movie. show less