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Vulnerability and Strength
Forever, Now follows a woman going through a divorce who goes on a journey of self-discovery and learns to redefine what happiness is for her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from observing friends and family and listening to conversations about marriage and infidelity. I noticed how often people lose themselves in relationships, even when they know it’s not right for them. This can be extremely hard to navigate, but it can also be transformative to reclaim one’s identity. I wanted to explore the idea that divorce, while painful, can be a powerful catalyst for self-discovery and personal growth. Of course, every writer puts some of themselves in their material too!
A lot of time was spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
The most important factor was capturing the complexity of human nature, particularly in characters who are both charming and manipulative. I wanted to portray how a controlling person can exhibit manic depressive and narcissistic traits, projecting an image of power while being deeply vulnerable. This duality allows them to easily manipulate trusting partners, creating a dynamic that reflects the intricate and often painful realities of relationships.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore themes of self-discovery, the complexities of love and betrayal, and the struggle to find the strength to move on. I also delved into the effects of manipulation in relationships, highlighting how vulnerability and strength coexist within individuals. Ultimately, I aimed to illustrate that even in the darkest times, there’s potential for realization, self-respect, and finding happiness.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m currently working on a collection of short stories that includes a piece involving time travel. I’m excited about the themes I’m exploring, but I don’t have a release date yet. Stay tuned for updates!
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Distinguished Favorites in the General Fiction category at the 2024 Paris Book Festival
Marriage was supposed to be happily ever after, but it turned out to be anything but.
Darya’s life takes an unexpected turn when she marries a man despite her intuition, believing in the promise of a happy and everlasting future. However, the façade of their seemingly perfect life begins to crumble when her husband’s infidelity and lies come to light, leaving their home and hearts shattered.
As Darya grapples with the pain of a broken marriage and the responsibilities of motherhood, she embarks on a quest to find her own happiness and purpose. Navigating through a heart-wrenching journey of betrayal, loss, and rebuilding, Darya learns hard-fought lessons about the world and herself.
Forever, Now is a tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the enduring power of love and determination. It explores the depths of human emotions and the indomitable spirit of a woman who finds her way back to happiness despite life’s most painful setbacks.
Haleh Shahrzad, the author of Forever, Now, was born in Tehran, Iran. Her journey began with a challenging experience in her homeland when she faced obstacles to higher education due to improper hijab and her absence at Islamic Friday prayers, despite passing the entrance exam and gaining acceptance to Tehran University. Determined to pursue her dreams, she made the courageous and harrowing decision to leave Iran.
As an Iranian-American, Haleh offers a unique and powerful perspective in her storytelling. She adeptly integrates her rich cultural experiences into her narratives, creating compelling stories that resonate with readers. Currently residing in California, she shares her life with her husband and son.
Forever, Now
Forever, Now by Haleh Shahrzad is a poignant and emotional novel that follows Darya, a woman whose marriage to David begins with hope but quickly unravels in the face of infidelity and deceit. What starts as the promise of a happy life together is shattered when Darya uncovers David’s lies, forcing her to confront the harsh reality of a broken marriage. As she struggles with the betrayal and the challenge of raising their son, JD, on her own, Darya embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery, learning to redefine her happiness and reclaim her strength.
Shahrzad weaves her cultural background and personal insights into a touching narrative that resonates on a universal level. Themes of betrayal, motherhood, and resilience are at the heart of this story, making it relatable to anyone who has ever faced heartache. What makes Forever, Now especially compelling is the raw honesty in the portrayal of Darya’s emotional turmoil. Shahrzad doesn’t sugarcoat the pain of watching a marriage crumble, but she also offers moments of hope and growth, creating a delicate balance between sorrow and the possibility of renewal.
One of the novel’s standout qualities is its portrayal of the internal conflict many women, especially mothers, experience as they wrestle with personal desires and family obligations. Darya’s determination to keep her marriage intact for the sake of her son, despite its toxicity, reflects the sacrifices many women make in the name of family. Her emotional journey is a tribute to the strength required to move forward even when every part of you wants to hold on to what’s familiar.
Darya’s internal reflections often revisit familiar emotional themes, which authentically captures the complexity of grief and confusion. However, I felt this approach can occasionally affect the pacing of the story. I think a deeper exploration of Darya’s journey after her marriage ended might have provided additional momentum, offering further insights into her personal growth beyond the challenges she faces.
Forever, Now remains an evocative and moving read. Shahrzad’s straightforward yet powerful prose brings Darya’s emotional landscape to life, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. For readers who appreciate stories of personal growth, resilience, and the emotional complexity of human relationships, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impact.
Pages: 169 | ASIN : B0D4N1SM7V
LITERARY TITAN 