Completely worth the read! Once I picked this book up, I finished it in one day. Hart and Alessia stole my heart from their first meeting in Italy. I adored following Alesia’s approach of trying to run from all of her problems (all the way to Nairobi). Added bonus to the age gap.

Absolutely loved this one! Kendall Ryan delivers such a sweet, heartfelt romance that had me smiling the whole way through. The characters are relatable, the chemistry feels so natural, and the story flows in that perfect “can’t put it down” way. It’s tender, funny, and just the right amount of swoony. Highly recommend if you’re in the mood for a feel-good love story that leaves you with a full heart.

This book was a quick and easy read, with a light flow that made it enjoyable. For me, Hart was the true standout — his energy carried the story and kept me turning the pages. I loved watching his growth and development throughout the book, and honestly, I would have loved to see things from his POV as well.

Thank you so much to Montlake & NetGalley for this e-arc.


Despite the fact that these two are in various phases of life, their connection was a whirlwind of intense friendship and affection that developed into a lovely romantic journey with a global element. Overall, I liked the book, even though the pacing and growth felt a little hurried in some places.

A Beginner’s Guide to Forever by Kendall Ryan was a quick and easy read, with a light flow that made it enjoyable. For me, Hart was the true standout — his energy carried the story and kept me turning the pages. I loved watching his growth and development throughout the book, and honestly, I would have loved to see things from his POV as well.

Alessia, on the other hand, was fine but nothing particularly memorable. She didn’t stand out in the same way, which left the balance of the story leaning heavily on Hart. Overall, it was an entertaining romance with some great moments, but missing a little something extra to push it higher than 3.5 stars.

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced digital copy - all thoughts and opinions are my own!

the cover really sets you going for this book. ive really enjoyed how some covers are really stepping up their game with books ive taken to recently. its reminded me how much they make a difference.
Alessia is a woman who is trying to make her difference to the world. in whatever way she can. she has a charity that she aims to do just that with building schools for girls across the globe. and what goes with that is needing investors. and this means pitching to people with money. on one such pitch she meets Hartford. a young billionaire. she needs him onside for a donation from his family. there chemistry and connection is instant. but Alessia isn't so sure she should even give this a second look. because after all she is a lot older than him so whats the point as she knows it wont go anywhere. but then she starts to think of herself, and maybe a little fun wont be so bad.
so what starts as just that, becomes so much more. and its obvious that this is becoming so much more for both of them. and the great thing is we get to watch it, or should i say read it happen.
the characters we meet are human, that means they have flaws. it means they are all the more readable.
it was also great to have such a powerful and woman boss woman who also could be vulnerable too without being lesser than. she is one hell of an inspiration.
and we also have man who is younger yes but hes also just a man who is having a relationship with a woman who happens to be older. i really valued Kendall's writing on this that didn't fall into yucky and frankly gross tropes and stigma that usually surround woman and man in this kind of connection. yes there is life stages and questions to ask. but its not something that makes you roll your eyes at once again a woman being put into this "older woman"younger man box that soooooo many fall into when writing this kind of scenario.
the added bonus in following this pair is we get to go in a mini break of sorts too as we follow their travels lol. because Kendall writes her scenes with such rich descriptions it truly does feel like there with them, alongside them or just with a birds eye view of them.
there is alot to be said for the nuances in this book. its not your typical romance you see in books. and it challenges or brings societal norms we have ingrained in us up to a mirror. i appreciated that actually. it added a different and thought provoking layer to things. but it also never overtook just a really good story and a really good love story at that.
this is a great book. its full of heart and that is what shines through. and what do we do with that heart when it wants both our goals and missions in life but then unexpectedly might want love too. where is the balance? is there one? and what can we do to make that happen so that each might be fulfilled? this book makes the age gap thankfully not be this soul reason trope why two people cant possibly make it work. it made real issues or complex situations and people need to work things out, communicate...be adults!
i love that this book challenged me. and was a great reminder to step back from online conversations surrounding this. step back from what we are all at risk of falling foul to with the current world we live in. i like how it made me think. but it also never stepped away from being a beautiful romance i could love just as much, just with a side of some extra thought. which is never a bad thing and was quite refreshing.

A Beginner's Guide to Forever
by Kendall Ryan

I love discovering new authors I haven't had the chance to explore before, and this book was an enjoyable find. It was engaging and filled with witty dialogue, making the reading experience pleasurable. The chemistry between the characters wasn't strong, but their banter created a fun and lighthearted atmosphere. I especially appreciated the unique twist on the typical age gap dynamic; Hart, at twenty-five, was refreshingly mature and emotionally astute, which added depth to their relationship.

Alessia Moore is a dedicated thirty-seven-year-old leader of a nonprofit organisation based in bustling Nairobi. She is passionately focused on her mission to build a school for girls, providing them with the education and opportunities they deserve in a society where such chances can be scarce. While navigating her ambitious goals, she unexpectedly crosses paths with Hart Winthrop, the charismatic twenty-five-year-old son of a wealthy billionaire investor. Hart is not only interested in supporting his family's foundation to help Alessia, but also finds himself drawn to Alessia in ways he never anticipated. As their two worlds continue to merge, Alessia is taken aback by the powerful attraction and emotional connection that develops between them, challenging her perceptions of love and partnership.

An age gap romance, the story of Alessia and Hart. She works hard running a charity, and he is from a rich family that donates to charities. Will she give him a chance?

A Beginners Guide To Forever is Hart Winthrop and Alessia Moore’s age gap romance. Is a journey set between Africa and the USA and I loved this side of the book but I did struggle to connect with Alessia and her two steps forward, one step back when it came to forming a relationship with the younger Hart. Hart is a billionaire who travels the world looking for causes his family foundations can support and from the moment he met Alessia in Africa where she is setting up a girls school he is smitten….. Fate seems intent on this couple being together because they bump into to each other in countries all over the world but will Alessia take a chance on a man ten years her junior…… This wasn’t one of my favourite reads but that doesn’t mean you won’t love it. I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley.

An age gap where she is older and very much looking into having a baby after being strung along by a reluctant fiancé. Shes having a hard time accepting that she is attracted to a younger man let alone date him. Hart convinces her to just enjoy the ride and she does. Loved these two MCs together they really complimented each other.

QueenZany 4-Star Review
A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO FOREVER
Kendall Ryan


A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO FOREVER was a fun read.
Yes, I was at first thrown off by the age difference. But it worked in this scenario. There were some hick ups, but it was a cute read.

Alessia inner thoughts were her own worst enemy. Oh, and how she listened to what everyone else said. The only person that mattered was her and Hart. That young man adored her. Do you hear me.

I am happy he kept that pressure applied. It all worked out.

Alessia is devoted to helping others, but she can’t help but reflect on what she may be missing out on due to her lack of a personal life. When Alessia meets with a wealthy family who are interested in investing in her project the last person she expected to see was Hart, a man she had met in the past who she believes is wrong for her for multiple reasons.

Hart may be 12 years younger than Alessia, but he knows what he wants. She is the first woman to see who he is and not his lifestyle and he is determined to show her that they are exactly who the other needs in their life and age is only a number.

Both Alessia and Hart have turmoil to overcome in part because of the past, in part because of the challenges in the present and in part concerns if they can give each other the future they want. This is a story of two opposites who find the right balance in each other.

A Beginner's Guide to Forever is an easy to read, page turning travel romance by Kendall Ryan. Really loved and enjoyed reading the story.

Highly Recommend it to all readers.

A Beginner's Guide to Forever by Kendall Ryan offers an emotional and unforgettable exploration of love, self-discovery, and overcoming personal barriers. The novel centers on Alessia Moore, a driven thirty-seven-year-old powerhouse running a nonprofit in Nairobi. Her mission is to build a school for girls, and she’s successfully attracting the attention of investors, all while maintaining a strict focus on her professional life. However, despite her achievements, Alessia finds herself questioning whether true love is ever in the cards for her.

When she meets Hart Winthrop, the twenty-five-year-old son of a billionaire investor, the attraction between them is immediate and intense. Hart is confident, intelligent, and undeniably charming, yet their relationship faces numerous challenges. First and foremost, their age gap and the fact that pursuing a romance with him could jeopardize the very foundation Alessia is working so hard to build make their connection seem all but impossible.

What follows is a beautifully written, slow-burn romance that takes Alessia and Hart across the globe, from glamorous cities to more hidden, intimate locations. The setting adds a unique layer to the narrative, with each new place symbolizing a stage in their evolving relationship. Ryan does an excellent job of weaving together the tension of forbidden attraction and the heart-pounding excitement of their growing bond, making it impossible to look away.

The central themes of the book revolve around balancing personal and professional aspirations, questioning societal norms, and taking risks for love. Alessia is a character readers will deeply connect with, especially her internal conflict between duty and desire. Hart, while younger, is mature beyond his years, and his unwavering support for Alessia makes him an ideal match, despite their differences.

What sets A Beginner's Guide to Forever apart is Ryan’s ability to delve into the emotional complexity of the characters, especially Alessia, who has spent much of her life focused on building her career rather than pursuing personal happiness. Hart’s presence challenges her to rethink her priorities and the boundaries she’s set for herself, ultimately asking whether love is something worth risking everything for.

This novel will appeal to fans of forbidden romance, age-gap relationships, and those who enjoy reading about characters who must navigate the complex balance between personal goals and the possibility of love. With strong character development, engaging global settings, and a romance that feels both intense and grounded, A Beginner’s Guide to Forever is a must-read for those who enjoy a deeply emotional journey to finding true love when it’s least expected.

4⭐️ .5🌶️ 5🎧 Kendall Ryan has become one of my favorite authors and I always enjoy her stories! This new release was so cute, but far, far less spicy than the other books I’ve read from her. While technically on page, if you’re not paying close attention you’ll miss it. Not V or D mentioned once, lol. Watching these two grow together from their first meeting to lovers was so, so sweet. They fit together so perfectly in so many ways.

Alessia is a 38-year-old non-profit executive that has a poor relationship history and just wants to find her person to build a life with. Hart is the son of a billionaire family that has been given the silver spoon in every aspect of life, and he is drawn to the realness of Alessia.

I received an eBook ARC for this book, but when I learned Vanessa Edwin narrates this audiobook, I knew I had to listen as well! Vanessa is amazing as usual!

Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars!

It's been a hot minute since the author released a book. So when she announced this one, I was pumped up! Overall I liked the book. However, there was something missing that I can't quite put my finger on.

Alessia was close to 40. She broke up with her last boyfriend because they weren't on the same page in regard to marriage and family. She's immersed herself in philanthropy and is busy in Nairobi starting a school. She doesn't expect to meet someone she likes and is attracted to, but she meets Hart. They have chemistry. But, he's 28. The age gap really hangs above her when she's with Hart and his friends. She's constantly comparing their ages when his friends are carefree. Maybe the fact that she kept bringing up the age difference is what nagged at me. They both come from money so they share a lot of similar experiences without worrying about cost. They were just supposed to have fun, but they were so compatible that it was hard not to catch feelings. Instead of acting her age and actually talking to Hart about her hang ups, she runs scared. This is a romance so it's no secret that there is a happily ever after. I just wish there was no third act break up and then the rush to get back together.

I may not pick this book up again to re-read, but I will give the author's next book a chance since I loved her previous books.

I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.

She's a coug....

I really liked that the roles are flipped and Alessia is the older (at 37) successful career person. She is a boss. Only, she needs the investment of Hart's rents. Hart is twelve years younger at 25, he's into her and he is shinny and new. Of course she's flattered at his attention, but she needs the funds that his rents provide.
Fast paced and steamy. I do feel that Hart is very young and needs some maturing but I did like that he appreciates a slightly older lady.
Recommend.

3.5 Star Review A Beginners Guide To Forever by Kendall Ryan

I was so looking forward to reading this book but sadly it wasn’t what I was hoping for.

This is Alessia Moore and younger man Hart Winthrop’s story. I’m not a huge fan of age gap romances and sadly I had a hard time connecting to Alessia and Hart.

Alessia is working to educate under privileged girls when she meets the son of a potential investor.

I did enjoy their initial meeting, however it seemed that they were trying too hard. They frustrated me on so many occasions.

Although this book wasn’t for me, it may well be for you. I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley.

A Beginner's Guide to Forever by Kendall Ryan

I fell instantly for this story by the blurb alone. I knew it was one I wanted to read. The story itself is realistic, and I loved the plot line surrounding the girls' school being built in Nairobi. It is so easy for those of us in the Western world to turn a blind eye to the struggles and the living conditions of others. I also loved Alessia's character for her philanthropic heart and her love of making the world a better place.

The romance between Alessia and Hart kind of just happened. They felt some kind of chemistry from their very first meeting and then, apparently, God kept putting Hart in her path. Hart usually seemed far more mature than his 25 - 27 years, which would likely be the draw Alessia felt toward him. Their age gap was significant for this time in their lives, and I can't imagine Alessia would have entertained the idea at all had he not shown his intelligence, maturity, and caring heart.

The author gave this couple time to grow on their own in between spending time apart in their own lives. Most of the connection they built was over an electronic connection that is now possible in this world we live in.

I liked how Hart gave Alessia the time and space she needed to accept that their age gap should be one of the least of her worries, even though she totally broke his heart. He still kept fighting for her slowly while he found himself and what he wanted out of life.

The steam level in this book is low but the sensuality of their times together makes up for it. The slow burn in this story is intense and probably not for everyone. There were times when I felt like no 26-year-old boy, or is he a man, would have the patience to wait for Alessia to be ready. But he did, and this cemented the character for me. He was ready for more and ready to be the perfect choice for Alessia. She just needed to get out of her own way. She needed to stop worrying about what everyone else would think and to see what a perfect man God put in front of her.

I definitely was attached to this book and read it straight through over a lazy summer weekend. There was never a time when I felt like I didn't want to finish or know how Hart and Alessia's story panned out, but I will say that after waiting so long, basically the whole book, for them to finally embrace their relationship, I may have liked to see a few chapters of them together. The end and epilogue came too quickly for me. Even though the author basically tied up all the loose ends, we didn't get to live them with the characters. We got the 2-years-later update, which tells us how things are but we didn't get to enjoy any of them being together.