Now and Forever by Willow Aster was my introduction to both the author and the Windy Harbor series. While this is the fifth and final book, the series consists of interconnected standalones. And, as usual, I think I would have been more invested in the characters and their relationships had I started at the beginning.

I really wanted to be all in on Noah and Imogen’s love story. I mean, they got married in Vegas! But while I enjoyed their journey, I never fully connected with them as a couple. Noah’s feelings felt more genuine to me, and I found myself rooting for him more than Imogen. I especially appreciated his emotional maturity. A man who communicates, works on himself, AND goes to therapy? Yes, please!

There was definitely a stretch where I wondered how many more obstacles these two could possibly encounter before finding their way back to each other. And can we talk about the annulment/divorce situation? Because I would have absolutely flipped my lid! But alas, all’s well that ends well!

Despite not being completely swept away by the romance, I really enjoyed how everything came together. That final chapter? Grandma, you go girl! And the epilogue was especially sweet. Grayson calling Imogen “Mom” and the addition of a new baby gave me the heartwarming ending I was hoping for.

As for the audiobook, Conor Crais was the standout for me. He brought a sincerity and emotional depth to Noah that made his character particularly compelling. Zara Hampton-Brown was also a wonderful choice for Imogen, capturing her personality and bringing balance to the narration.

Overall, this was a pleasant introduction to Willow Aster’s writing. While Noah and Imogen didn’t quite steal my heart, there were plenty of sweet moments, some emotional ups and downs, and a satisfying conclusion.

📖 Now and Forever
✍️ Willow Aster
📚 Windy Harbor, Book 5
🎙️ Conor Crais & Zara Hampton-Brown
🎁 Provided by Valentine PR
📅 Release: 11/12/26
🏁 Finished: 11/06/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨