Now and Forever

Colasanti (All I Need) returns with a superficial romance narrated by high school senior Sterling, who is head over heels for her musician boyfriend of one month: “Ethan Cross is the most gorgeous boy I’ve ever seen,” she explains. “And he picked me.” Sterling knows Ethan is a talented songwriter and performer, but she isn’t prepared for the changes in both their lives after Ethan’s band’s first single becomes a hit. Suddenly, Sterling is a celebrity girlfriend, wearing designer clothes, attending gala events, and staying at glam hotels. Soon, the downside of being on the edge of the limelight overshadows the fun and excitement: Sterling is plagued by false rumors and criticism from jealous fans, and Ethan becomes obsessed with gaining even more fame. Beyond the predictability of the plot, these teens’ romance feels like a nonstarter even before stardom becomes an issue. Naïve and judgmental, Sterling isn’t the sort of character who generates much goodwill (and self-involved Ethan isn’t any better). Both, unfortunately, come across more as the idea of lovestruck teenagers than actual people. Ages 12–up. (May)