Celeste Briars' The Best Kind of Forever is a compelling exploration of love, redemption, and the intricate dance between past traumas and future hopes. At its core, the novel is a romance, but it also delves into deeper themes of self-worth, trust, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Through the intertwined lives of Aeris Relera and Hayes Hollings, Briars crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

The protagonist, Aeris Relera, is a character many readers will find relatable. Her life has been a series of disappointments, from a self-absorbed ex to neglectful parents, leaving her with a lingering sense of inadequacy. Briars paints Aeris with a nuanced brush, capturing her internal struggles and the walls she has built around her heart. Her journey is one of self-discovery and healing, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of love and trust.

Enter Hayes Hollings, a disgraced NHL player with a past that refuses to let go. Hayes is a fascinating character study in contrasts. On the surface, he is the quintessential playboy, but Briars peels back the layers to reveal a man burdened by his mistakes and desperate for redemption. His plan to rebrand his image by becoming a doting boyfriend is both strategic and vulnerable, showcasing his desire to change and be seen as more than his past transgressions.

The chemistry between Aeris and Hayes is palpable, and Briars expertly builds their relationship with a slow burn that feels authentic and earned. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and genuine moments of connection, making their romance both engaging and believable. However, the looming secret that Hayes harbors adds a layer of tension and suspense, keeping readers on edge as they wonder how it will impact their burgeoning relationship.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the theme of redemption. Both Aeris and Hayes are haunted by their pasts, and their journey together is as much about forgiving themselves as it is about finding love. Briars deftly handles this theme, illustrating how love can be a catalyst for personal growth and healing. The novel suggests that while the past may shape us, it does not have to define us, and that redemption is possible through vulnerability and honesty.

In terms of character development, Briars excels at creating multidimensional characters who evolve over the course of the story. Aeris' transformation from a woman resigned to a loveless life to someone willing to take a chance on love is both inspiring and realistic. Similarly, Hayes' journey from a man hiding behind a facade to someone willing to confront his past and embrace change is compelling and relatable.

Comparatively, The Best Kind of Forever shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romances, such as Colleen Hoover's It Ends with Us and Tessa Bailey's Fix Her Up. Like Hoover, Briars does not shy away from exploring difficult topics and the emotional complexities of her characters. Meanwhile, the humor and chemistry between Aeris and Hayes are reminiscent of Bailey's work, providing a balance of lightheartedness and depth.

Overall, The Best Kind of Forever is a beautifully written novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of love, redemption, and personal growth. Briars' ability to weave a narrative that is both entertaining and meaningful is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. The novel's impact lies in its message that love, in its truest form, is about accepting oneself and others, flaws and all.

For readers seeking a romance that goes beyond the surface and delves into the heart of what it means to love and be loved, The Best Kind of Forever is a must-read. It is a story that will linger in the minds of its readers long after the final page is turned, a testament to the enduring power of love and the possibility of new beginnings.