Between Never and Forever

by Shain Rose • 2024 • 416 pages

3.88

15.9K ratings

Romance Second Chance Fake Dating

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Plot Summary

Secret Love in the Woods

Keelani and Dex's secret romance

Keelani, a rising music star, and Dex Hardy, a passionate and determined man, are entangled in a secret romance. Their love blossoms in the secluded woods, away from the prying eyes of the public and the constraints of Keelani's demanding music career. Despite their intense connection, the secrecy strains their relationship. Keelani is torn between her burgeoning career and her love for Dex, while Dex feels sidelined and frustrated by the need to hide their relationship. This chapter sets the stage for the complex dynamics of their love, highlighting the passion and obstacles they face.

Hidden Hearts and Public Faces

Struggles with public personas

Keelani's career demands a public image that conflicts with her private life, as her label insists on a fabricated relationship with fellow artist Ethan for publicity. Dex, feeling increasingly sidelined, grapples with jealousy and the constraints of their secret love. The tension between their private desires and public obligations creates a rift, as Dex demands honesty and commitment. Keelani is caught between her love for Dex and the career she has worked hard to build, leading to a confrontation that leaves their relationship hanging by a thread.

A Reckless Night's Consequence

A tragic accident changes everything

A night of reckless partying culminates in a devastating car accident involving Keelani, Dex, and their friends. The crash results in the death of a friend and leaves another in a coma, forcing Keelani and Dex to confront the reality of their choices and the impact on their lives. This incident becomes a turning point, shattering their secret world and thrusting them into the public eye. The aftermath strains their relationship further, as guilt and blame threaten to tear them apart.

The Proposal That Wasn't

A fake engagement for publicity

Under pressure from her label, Keelani agrees to a fake engagement with Ethan to boost her career, leaving Dex feeling betrayed. In a desperate attempt to reclaim their love and control the narrative, Dex proposes a counter-offer: a fake engagement with him instead. Keelani is torn between the two offers, each representing a different path for her future. This chapter explores the complexities of love, fame, and personal identity, as Keelani must choose between her career and her heart.

A New Beginning, Old Flames

Rekindling love amidst chaos

As Keelani and Dex navigate their fake engagement, they struggle to balance their public personas with their private desires. Old feelings resurface, complicating their arrangement and prompting Keelani to question her career choices and the life she has built. Dex, determined to win her back, challenges her to embrace her true self. Their relationship becomes a battleground of emotions, as they fight to reconcile their past with their present and decide if their love is worth fighting for.

The Past Never Stays Buried

Confronting unresolved issues

Keelani and Dex are forced to confront the unresolved issues from their past, including the tragic accident that changed their lives. As they delve into their history, they uncover truths that have been buried for years. This chapter explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of love to heal old wounds. Keelani and Dex must decide if they can move forward together or if their past will continue to haunt them.

Love, Lies, and Lilacs

A decision for the future

In a lilac garden, a symbol of their love, Keelani and Dex face a pivotal moment in their relationship. They must decide if their love is worth fighting for or if it's time to let go. This chapter explores the complexities of love, the lies they've told themselves and each other, and the possibility of a future together. Keelani and Dex must choose between the safety of their public personas and the vulnerability of their true selves.

A New Life Unpacked

Keelani struggles with her past

Overwhelmed by the chaos of her life, Keelani grapples with her emotions and the changes in her life. Her engagement with Dex has gone viral, sparking public interest and personal turmoil. Keelani is torn between her public persona and her private desires, questioning the authenticity of her relationship with Dex. This chapter highlights her struggle to reconcile her career with her true self and the choices she must make for her future.

Viral Love and Hidden Truths

Keelani's public image conflicts with reality

Bombarded with messages about her engagement, Keelani is forced to confront the reality of her relationship with Dex. She questions his motives, unsure if his actions are genuine or for publicity. As she navigates the complexities of her public and private life, Keelani begins to assert her independence, determined to take control of her narrative. She challenges Dex, seeking clarity and honesty in their relationship, and starts to embrace her true self.

A Reckless Proposal

Dex's bold move for love

Dex proposes a fake engagement to Keelani, hoping to reclaim their love and control the narrative. Keelani is torn between her career obligations and her feelings for Dex. As they navigate their public personas, old feelings resurface, complicating their arrangement. Keelani begins to question her career choices and the life she has built, while Dex is determined to win her back. Their relationship becomes a battleground of emotions, as they fight to reconcile their past with their present.

Confronting the Past

Keelani and Dex face their history

Keelani and Dex are forced to confront unresolved issues from their past, including the tragic accident that changed their lives. As they delve into their history, they uncover truths that have been buried for years. The chapter explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of love to heal old wounds. Keelani and Dex must decide if they can move forward together or if their past will continue to haunt them.

Love's Redemption

Keelani and Dex find peace

In the aftermath of the wedding and Ezekiel's threat, Keelani and Dex focus on building a life together. They navigate the challenges of their careers and personal lives, finding strength in their love for each other. Keelani embraces her true self, free from the constraints of her past, while Dex supports her every step of the way. Together, they create a new beginning, grounded in love and mutual respect, proving that their love can overcome any obstacle.

Characters

Keelani

Torn between love and career

Keelani is a talented singer caught between her love for Dex and the demands of her music career. Her public persona as an all-American girl conflicts with her private desires, leading to a secret relationship with Dex. Keelani is passionate and determined but struggles with the constraints of fame. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to reconcile her public image with her true self.

Dex Hardy

Determined and conflicted lover

Dex is a strong-willed and passionate man, deeply in love with Keelani. He struggles with the secrecy of their relationship and the public persona Keelani must maintain. Dex is protective and sometimes jealous, feeling sidelined by Keelani's career. His journey involves confronting his own insecurities and fighting for the love he believes in, even when it seems impossible.

Ethan

Public persona and friend

Ethan is Keelani's public partner, a fellow artist used by the label to boost their careers. Despite the facade, Ethan is a supportive friend to Keelani, understanding the pressures of fame. He represents the life Keelani is expected to lead, contrasting with her private desires. Ethan's role highlights the tension between public obligations and personal happiness.

Mitchell

Controlling manager

Mitchell is Keelani's manager, focused on maintaining her public image and career success. He pressures Keelani into decisions that conflict with her personal life, prioritizing fame over her happiness. Mitchell embodies the industry's demands, representing the obstacles Keelani must overcome to find her true self.

Dimitri Hardy

Loyal friend and brother

Dimitri is Dex's brother and Keelani's best friend. He supports Keelani through her struggles, offering a safe haven amidst the chaos. Dimitri's loyalty to both Keelani and Dex creates tension, as he navigates the complexities of their relationship. His role highlights the importance of friendship and family in overcoming life's challenges.

Ezekiel

A dangerous obsession

Ezekiel is a manipulative and obsessive figure in Keelani's life. His dangerous fixation on her leads to a kidnapping attempt, revealing the extent of his control and influence. Ezekiel represents the darker side of fame and the threats that come with it. His actions force Keelani and Dex to confront the reality of their situation and take decisive action to protect their future.

Plot Devices

Secret Relationship

Hidden love and public personas

The secret relationship between Keelani and Dex is a central plot device, highlighting the tension between their private desires and public obligations. The secrecy adds complexity to their love, creating obstacles they must overcome. It serves as a catalyst for their personal growth and the challenges they face in reconciling their love with their careers.

Fake Engagement

Publicity and personal conflict

The fake engagement is a plot device used to explore the themes of love, fame, and personal identity. It forces Keelani and Dex to confront their feelings and the reality of their relationship. The engagement creates a public narrative that conflicts with their private desires, leading to a deeper exploration of their true selves and the choices they must make.

Car Accident

Turning point and catalyst

The car accident is a pivotal plot device that changes the course of Keelani and Dex's lives. It forces them to confront the consequences of their actions and the fragility of life. The accident serves as a catalyst for their personal growth, pushing them to reevaluate their priorities and the impact of their choices on their future.

Kidnapping

A turning point for Keelani

The kidnapping by Ezekiel is a pivotal plot device that forces Keelani to confront the dangers of her fame and the reality of her situation. It serves as a turning point in her relationship with Dex, highlighting the depth of his love and commitment. The experience pushes Keelani to reevaluate her life and make choices that align with her true self.

Redemption

A theme of healing and forgiveness

The theme of redemption is central to Keelani and Dex's journey, as they confront their past and embrace their future. Through forgiveness and understanding, they find healing and peace in their relationship. The theme underscores the power of love to overcome obstacles and create a new beginning, grounded in mutual respect and trust.

Analysis

A tale of love and identity

"Between Never and Forever" explores the intricate dance between love and personal identity, set against the backdrop of fame and public scrutiny. The narrative delves into the complexities of maintaining a private self in a world that demands a public persona. Through Keelani and Dex's tumultuous journey, the story highlights the importance of authenticity, the courage to confront one's past, and the power of love to heal and transform. The book serves as a reminder that true happiness lies in embracing one's true self and the relationships that nurture and support that journey.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Basic Details

What is Between Never and Forever about?

Secret Love Tested : The story centers on Keelani, a rising music star, and Dex, a passionate man, navigating a secret relationship amidst the pressures of fame and public expectations.
Public vs. Private : It explores the conflict between Keelani's public image and her private desires, as her record label pushes a fabricated relationship while she yearns for a genuine connection with Dex.
Consequences and Choices : A tragic car accident forces them to confront the consequences of their choices, leading to a series of events that test their love and force them to decide between their careers and their hearts.

Why should I read Between Never and Forever?

Emotional Depth : The novel delves into complex emotions, exploring themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and redemption, offering a rollercoaster of feelings.
Character-Driven Narrative : The story focuses on the internal struggles and growth of its characters, making their journey relatable and compelling.
Intriguing Plot Twists : The narrative is filled with unexpected turns, keeping readers engaged and invested in the outcome of Keelani and Dex's relationship.

What is the background of Between Never and Forever?

Contemporary Setting : The story is set in a contemporary world where social media and public image play a significant role in the lives of celebrities.
Music Industry Influence : The music industry's demanding nature and the pressures it places on artists are central to the plot, highlighting the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the face of fame.
Small-Town Roots : The characters' small-town background contrasts with the glitz and glamour of the music industry, emphasizing the importance of their shared history and personal connections.

What are the most memorable quotes in Between Never and Forever?

"I want you every-fucking-where." : This quote encapsulates Dex's intense desire and frustration with the limitations of their secret relationship, highlighting his passionate nature.
"You shouldn't have saved me, Dex." : Keelani's heartbreaking statement reveals the conflict between her love for Dex and the constraints of her career, showcasing the sacrifices she feels forced to make.
"I didn't answer, Kee, because I didn't care." : Dex's cold words, though untrue, demonstrate the depth of his hurt and his attempt to distance himself from Keelani, emphasizing the pain of their separation.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Shain Rose use?

Dual POV : The story is told from both Keelani and Dex's perspectives, allowing readers to understand their individual thoughts, feelings, and motivations, creating a more immersive experience.
Emotional Language : Shain Rose uses vivid and evocative language to convey the characters' intense emotions, drawing readers into their internal struggles and making their experiences feel palpable.
Foreshadowing and Symbolism : The author employs subtle foreshadowing and recurring symbols, such as the lilac garden, to hint at future events and deepen the thematic resonance of the story.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The Lilac Garden : The recurring mention of the lilac garden symbolizes the purity and intimacy of Keelani and Dex's early relationship, contrasting with the artificiality of her public life.
The Color Purple : The color purple, often associated with Keelani, represents her complex emotions, her creativity, and her connection to her mother, adding depth to her character.
The HEAT Watch : Dex's HEAT watch, a symbol of his control and power, also becomes a tool for him to monitor Keelani's safety, highlighting his protective nature and his struggle to let go.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

"You can have me here, just not out there." : This line foreshadows the central conflict of their relationship, where their private love is at odds with their public lives, and the limitations of their secret relationship.
Keelani's songs : The lyrics of Keelani's songs, often about love and loss, subtly foreshadow her feelings for Dex and the emotional turmoil she experiences throughout the story.
The recurring mention of "forever" : The word "forever" is used repeatedly, highlighting the characters' initial belief in their enduring love and the challenges they face in making that a reality.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Dimitri as a confidant: Dimitri's role as Keelani's best friend and Dex's brother creates a unique dynamic, as he is privy to both their feelings and struggles, acting as a bridge between them.
Ethan's understanding: Despite being part of a fake relationship with Keelani, Ethan shows a surprising level of understanding and support, revealing a deeper connection beyond their public personas.
Bane's protectiveness : Bane's unexpected protectiveness over Keelani, despite his ominous presence, highlights the complex dynamics within the HEAT empire and the lengths they go to protect their own.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Dimitri Hardy: As Dex's brother and Keelani's best friend, Dimitri serves as a confidant and a voice of reason, often providing support and guidance to both characters.
Olive : Keelani's intern-turned-PR strategist and hairstylist, Olive, is a loyal friend who provides emotional support and helps Keelani navigate the complexities of her career.
Pink : The makeup artist, Pink, is a bold and direct character who challenges Keelani's public persona and encourages her to embrace her true self, offering a fresh perspective.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Dex's need for control: Dex's desire to control the narrative and protect Keelani stems from his past trauma and his fear of losing her again, revealing his deep-seated insecurities.
Keelani's self-sacrifice: Keelani's willingness to compromise her own happiness for her family's well-being highlights her deep sense of responsibility and her struggle to prioritize her own needs.
Mitchell's ambition: Mitchell's relentless pursuit of Keelani's career success reveals his own ambition and his willingness to exploit her for personal gain, showcasing the darker side of the music industry.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Keelani's internal conflict: Keelani struggles with her identity, torn between her public persona and her true self, leading to a constant battle between her desires and obligations.
Dex's emotional turmoil: Dex's intense emotions, ranging from love to jealousy and anger, reveal his deep-seated insecurities and his struggle to reconcile his past with his present.
Ezekiel's obsession: Ezekiel's obsessive behavior and manipulative tendencies highlight his psychological instability and his dangerous fixation on Keelani, showcasing the darker side of fame and power.

What are the major emotional turning points?

The car accident: The car accident serves as a major emotional turning point, forcing Keelani and Dex to confront their mortality and the consequences of their choices, leading to a period of separation and self-reflection.
Dex's confession of love: Dex's confession of love and his desire to marry Keelani, despite their past, marks a significant emotional turning point, revealing his vulnerability and his willingness to fight for their relationship.
Keelani's decision to rebrand: Keelani's decision to rebrand and embrace her true self represents a major emotional turning point, as she finally chooses to prioritize her own happiness and authenticity over her public image.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Secret to public : The relationship between Keelani and Dex evolves from a secret relationship to a public engagement, forcing them to navigate the complexities of their feelings in the spotlight.
Conflict to understanding : Their relationship is marked by conflict and misunderstandings, but it gradually evolves into a deeper understanding and acceptance of each other's flaws and strengths.
Individual to shared journey : The characters' individual journeys of self-discovery eventually merge into a shared path, as they learn to support each other and build a future together based on honesty and mutual respect.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The extent of Dex's control: The novel leaves open the question of whether Dex's protective nature and desire for control are ultimately beneficial or detrimental to Keelani's independence and growth.
The future of Keelani's career: The ending leaves the future of Keelani's career open-ended, as she embarks on a new path that prioritizes her authenticity and artistic vision, but the challenges of the music industry remain.
The long-term impact of trauma : The novel acknowledges the lasting impact of trauma on both Keelani and Dex, but it leaves open the question of how they will continue to navigate their past and build a future together.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Between Never and Forever?

Dex's controlling behavior: Dex's possessiveness and controlling actions towards Keelani, while rooted in his desire to protect her, can be interpreted as problematic and raise questions about power dynamics in relationships.
Keelani's choices: Keelani's decisions to prioritize her career over her personal happiness and her willingness to compromise her own desires for her family's well-being can be seen as both admirable and self-destructive.
The use of a fake engagement: The use of a fake engagement as a plot device can be seen as both a clever way to explore the characters' feelings and a problematic trope that perpetuates unrealistic expectations about love and relationships.

Between Never and Forever Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

A new beginning : The ending of "Between Never and Forever" signifies a new beginning for Keelani and Dex, as they choose to embrace their love and build a future together, free from the constraints of their past.
Authenticity and self-discovery : The ending emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-discovery, as Keelani finally embraces her true self and Dex learns to let go of his need for control.
Love conquers all : The ending reinforces the theme that love can overcome any obstacle, as Keelani and Dex find healing and redemption in their relationship, proving that their love is worth fighting for.