Forever We Fall is the second book in the Pieces of Us series written by Meg Everly.

Expected publication date is November 26, 2024.

*Extreme child abuse
*Boarding school
*Coming of Age

While this is the second book in the series, this book takes the readers back to when the two main characters first met at school.

This book is so heartbreaking and difficult to read. Arlo did not deserve to suffer through the torture that was administered to him by his uncle. My heart hurt so much for him throughout this book.

Hota tried his best to be there for Arlo, he did everything that a young man could do to help heal Arlo. It just wasn’t enough. I truly hope in the next book they can find their happily ever after with each other.

This book does end on a cliffhanger. Hopefully in the final book of the series we will get to see some happiness between the throuple! I was hoping for just a little bit more of a physical connection between Arlo and Hota but I understand why it never transpired due to the traumatic experiences that Arlo suffered through.

Even though this series is heartbreaking, it is extremely well written and definitely spicy!

Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, Romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Arlo (MMC) & Hota (MMC)

Forever We Fall by Meg Everly is book two in the Pieces of Us Series.
Everly’s writing is sharp, engaging, and witty.
The writing in this novel is amazing!!! From the first page of this book I knew that I was going to love the characters,

Book Review: Forever We Fall by Meg Everly
Meg Everly’s Forever We Fall plunges readers into a gripping and deeply emotional dark romance that explores love, trauma, and survival. Set in the secluded and oppressive world of Willoughby Ridge Boarding School, this dark MM romance unflinchingly portrays the resilience of the human spirit and the unlikeliest of bonds formed in the harshest of circumstances.

An Intense Setting
The boarding school setting is a character in itself, with its eerie isolation and suffocating atmosphere. Everly skillfully uses Willoughby Ridge to evoke a sense of entrapment, amplifying the tension as the characters navigate their struggles. The school becomes a microcosm of pain, secrecy, and forbidden connections, underscoring the novel’s darker themes.

The lack of female presence, aside from the headmaster’s secretary, contributes to the sense of otherness and alienation, making the relationships that do form even more intense and meaningful.

A Dual Perspective
The story alternates between the perspectives of Hotaru Kido and Arlo Judge, two boys from vastly different worlds whose lives intertwine in unexpected and profound ways.

Hotaru Kido is an angry, rebellious outsider whose biting humor and sharp observations make him instantly compelling. Beneath his bravado, however, lies a sense of loneliness and a desire to protect those he cares about—a trait that makes him both endearing and relatable. His voice brings a necessary edge and levity to the story, balancing its darker elements.
Arlo Judge, by contrast, is a fragile, haunted character who has endured unimaginable suffering. His vulnerability is heart-wrenching, and Everly’s depiction of his trauma is raw and unflinching. As he slowly begins to trust Hotaru, readers are taken on a deeply moving journey of healing and connection.
Together, their relationship becomes the emotional core of the novel—a powerful, forbidden love story that challenges them both to confront their demons and fight for each other.

Themes of Trauma and Resilience
Forever We Fall is not a light read. It delves into themes of abuse, power dynamics, and survival with stark honesty. Arlo’s trauma is handled with sensitivity and depth, showing the lingering effects of violence and the immense courage required to overcome it.

Hotaru’s role as both protector and partner emphasizes the importance of agency and consent in their growing bond. Their connection feels earned, as it develops slowly through shared moments of vulnerability and mutual understanding.

Forbidden Love and Power Dynamics
The romance between Hotaru and Arlo is fraught with tension—not just because of their circumstances but also because of the power imbalance created by Arlo’s abuser. Everly navigates this dynamic with care, ensuring that their relationship remains grounded in mutual respect and support. Their love is a beacon of hope amidst the darkness, offering moments of tenderness and beauty that shine through the novel’s grittier aspects.

Strong Characterization
The supporting cast, though not as richly developed, adds layers to the story. The headmaster and his secretary provide a foreboding presence, while other students at the school range from antagonists to bystanders, further emphasizing the isolating and predatory nature of the boarding school environment.

A Dark, Unflinching Tone
Everly does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of her characters’ lives. The writing is visceral and evocative, drawing readers into the intensity of each moment. At the same time, the novel is careful not to glorify or romanticize the pain it portrays. Instead, it focuses on the strength and resilience of its characters, making their eventual triumphs all the more rewarding.

Potential Criticisms
While Forever We Fall is a gripping and emotionally charged read, its heavy subject matter may not be for everyone. The graphic depictions of trauma and abuse, while handled thoughtfully, are intense and could be triggering for some readers. Additionally, the pacing occasionally falters, with some moments of reflection or exposition slowing the story’s momentum.

Final Thoughts
Meg Everly’s Forever We Fall is a dark, powerful romance that balances raw emotion with moments of hope and redemption. Hotaru and Arlo’s love story is one of courage, vulnerability, and the healing power of connection. For readers who appreciate intense, character-driven narratives that delve into the complexities of trauma and recovery, this novel is an unforgettable experience.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Recommended for fans of dark romances that prioritize emotional depth and nuanced character development.