What Age Group Is 'The Problem With Forever' Best Suited For?

I'd say 'The Problem with Forever' hits hardest for teens and young adults, especially those navigating tough transitions. The story's raw exploration of trauma, first love, and finding your voice resonates with 15-22 year olds who are wrestling with identity and past wounds. The protagonist Mallory's journey from selective mutism to self-expression mirrors what many introverted teens experience. While the romance has mature undertones, it stays PG-13—no explicit scenes, just intense emotional intimacy. Younger readers might miss the nuances of Mallory's PTSD, but her friendship-turned-love with Rider will hook anyone who's ever had a childhood crush. The book balances heavy themes with hope, making it perfect for sensitive souls needing catharsis.

'The Problem with Forever' is a layered novel that works on multiple levels, making its ideal audience broader than you might think. At its core, it's a coming-of-age story that will speak volumes to readers aged 14-25. The foster care elements and trauma recovery aspects give it depth that mature teens can appreciate, while the slow-burn romance keeps it accessible.

What makes this book special is how it handles dark themes without becoming overwhelming. Jennifer Armentrout writes about abuse and anxiety with a delicate touch, showing just enough to make the emotions real but not so much that it becomes triggering. This careful balance makes it suitable for high schoolers who want substance in their reads but aren't ready for full-on adult fiction.

The character dynamics are where the book shines brightest. Mallory's growth from a terrified girl to someone who claims her space in the world is inspirational without being preachy. Rider's struggles with cyclical poverty and violence add socioeconomic dimensions that will resonate with readers from similar backgrounds. These elements create crossover appeal—young adults who've aged out of YA but still want emotional depth will find plenty to love here.

As someone who's seen this book pass through many hands, I can tell you it bridges the gap between mature YA and new adult perfectly. The 16-24 demographic connects deeply with Mallory's story because it captures that fragile phase where you're leaving childhood wounds behind but aren't quite an adult. The romance has enough heat to satisfy older teens while keeping the focus on emotional connection.

What surprised me is how the book appeals to different age groups for different reasons. High schoolers love the forbidden romance aspect—Rider being that 'dangerous' boy from the wrong side of town. College-aged readers relate more to the themes of breaking family cycles and choosing your own path. Even adults working through their own trauma find Mallory's voice painfully authentic.

The book's treatment of speech anxiety makes it particularly valuable for younger readers. It shows recovery as nonlinear—some days Mallory speaks freely, others she retreats into silence. This realism helps teens understand mental health as a journey, not a destination. While the subject matter is heavy at times, the overall message about healing through connection makes it appropriate for most readers 15+.