So Much Forever


Fiction - Thriller - General
485 Pages
Reviewed on 09/22/2024
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Author Biography

Jafe Danbury hails from the trenches of the Hollywood production scene, where he spent decades as a camera operator, director of photography, and director. He has also worked as a teacher and is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran.

He enjoys noodling on the guitar, long road trips, likes his bacon crispy, and loves a good dive bar––especially if it happens to have a twenty-two-foot shuffleboard table. He prefers a leisurely walk to running, unless being chased by a clown with a chainsaw.

Jafe and his lovely bride currently reside in central California and are working on their exit plan. Their children consist of several rescue dogs. So Much Forever is his fourth novel.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Philip Zozzaro for Readers' Favorite

In So Much Forever by Jafe Danbury, Tempest Cage has awakened to another day of misery in Surprise, AZ. Her relationship with her abusive boyfriend has run its course and her primary concerns are for herself and her young daughter Abigail. She bids her boyfriend adieu in a way that leaves a blood trail. Meanwhile, Curt and Phoenix Martinsen are attempting a return to normalcy in the aftermath of their daughter Rose’s kidnapping by a human trafficking ring. The small family lives with Phoenix’s father but plans to find a place of their own soon enough. Their path to routine is dashed when Curt crosses Tempest’s path and she wants Curt all for herself. Tempest initiates a plan that will leave Curt trapped, Phoenix panic-stricken, and the local cops dealing with numerous corpses.

So Much Forever is the thrilling third installment in the Phoenix series by author Jafe Danbury which chronicles the tribulations of Phoenix Martinsen (nee Laflamme). The new threat facing Phoenix and her family arises from a wildcard in the persona of Tempest Cage. Tempest fulfills her moniker aptly as her actions go from maternal to possessive and homicidal in the blink of an eye. Danbury provides a wealth of backstory to highlight Tempest’s evolution while not losing focus on the story. Curt and Phoenix have survived harrowing ordeals but their devotion to each other and Rose are endearing and genuine. The book has its fair share of violence, but it is balanced by humor and heart. So Much Forever is a stirring read from start to finish.

Lauri B

Danbury does it again!! Absolutely loved Phoenix book 3. Another wonderful story of a family that loves together & fights for each other. I really enjoy following Jafe Danbury’s writing career & am looking forward to his next work of art.

Reg Godwin

A famous author once described the secret to writing a great thriller - “When your character’s in trouble, you need to get him into even more trouble.” Well, the Martinsens are certainly having a run of deadly bad luck as the mayhem strikes their family again in Jafe Danbury’s third novel in the ‘Phoenix’ series. Thoroughly researched and highly descriptive, Jafe’s narrative flows smoothly throughout the book. His characters are totally believable and we always hope that the good in them will triumph over the evil in their protagonists. I’m a fast reader, which often leads to disappointment when I finish a book too quickly, usually in a day or two, but this chunky offering from Jafe kept me totally entertained for twice the usual time. You can read this novel as a stand-alone, since Jafe skilfully weaves the back-story into this third book in the ‘Phoenix’ series, but for full enjoyment, I recommend also catching up with his previous books, ‘Leaving Phoenix’ and ‘X’. A fantastic read from this rapidly emerging and maturing writer.

Arlyse DeLoyola

Great book! Fast-paced and we'll written.

Kathleen Hevia

Jafe Dunbury’s skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make this a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. ‘So Much Forever’ is his newest in his wickedly twisty Phoenix Series of three, so far! I enjoy reading series books because I do not have to let go of characters I love, or love to hate, and the Phoenix Series is one of my favorites. This book is a masterclass in tension and intrigue. The narrative is expertly woven with suspense, emotion, and unexpected twists that keep you on the edge.

I appreciate the extensive research Mr. Danbury must have conducted to create such terrifying experiences. All the small and tiny details in his locations, streets, businesses and landmarks make this story unfold like a roadmap. He goes into surprisingly great detail about the particulars of muscle car engines, specifically Road Runners! Even the “sound track” brings to mind very precise nostalgic details of the ‘70s making this thriller an exciting and fun read!

Once again, I devoured this latest Jafe Danbury story. The way Mr. Danbury shares a story, with at times graphic details (some of those descriptions are WOW) of the unsolicited terror Phoenix and her family endure, is consistently exciting, informative, and suspenseful. With each Danbury book readers have the opportunity to invest further in this empowered protagonist and her circle of loved ones. I am invested in the Martinsen family and am looking forward to book number four of this awesome series! Suffice it to say, I am a fan of Danbury’s work and he did not disappoint with this latest release. Classic Jafe Danbury!!!

Tambi Smith

In “So Much Forever,” Jafe Danbury masterfully immerses readers into the story through vividly descriptive settings across Arizona, bringing locations like Pop Pop’s home, Wiley’s Burger joint, the DMV, and Superstition Springs to life. These detailed depictions make readers feel as though they are right there with the characters, observing events in real time and adding a sense of urgency and momentum to the plot. By providing precise dates and times, Danbury ensures a clear and coherent timeline, making the narrative easy to follow and deeply engaging. The seamless integration of character interactions with richly described settings creates a captivating tapestry of storytelling that holds readers' attention from start to finish.

Jafe Danbury crafts characters with remarkable depth and emotional complexity, captivating readers from the onset. The protagonists are exceptionally well-developed, inspiring readers to passionately root for them while despising the antagonists and even some secondary characters whose actions can be cringe-worthy. Each character possesses unique quirks that make them feel authentic and relatable, drawing readers further into their world. The author’s vivid descriptions provide perfect visualizations, allowing readers to see, feel, and experience the story alongside the characters. The vivid settings and emotional landscapes he describes transport readers directly into the heart of the story, immersing them completely in the world he has meticulously crafted.

The intricate relationships between the characters create a web of emotions that keeps readers thoroughly engaged throughout the narrative. Readers find themselves deeply invested in the characters' journeys, cheering for their triumphs, sympathizing with their struggles, and fearing their suspense. Through these well-crafted interactions, Jafe Danbury conveys profound messages about resilience, love, and the complexities of human nature. The emotional depth portrayed in the relationships between characters evokes a range of feelings in readers. From joy and empathy to tension and anticipation, the emotional rollercoaster will keep readers engaged and invested.

Jafe Danbury's choice of mood music for his characters significantly enhances the narrative, playing a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere. This musical element provides insight into the inner workings of the characters, revealing their fears, motivations, and growth. The authenticity and depth of emotion that he weaves into the story resonate deeply with readers, offering a more profound understanding of each character's journey. This thoughtful addition enriches the reading experience, making it more immersive and emotionally resonant.

A standout feature (across all books in The Phoenix Series) is the meaningful connection between the title and the story, with each title holding an underlying significance that reveals itself as the narrative unfolds. This subtle element adds a layer of mystery and anticipation, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the narrative. When readers recognize this connection, it creates a delightful moment of realization, adding depth and satisfaction to their experience and leaving a lasting impression that makes the reading journey more fulfilling.

"So Much Forever" revs up with the polished purr of a finely-tuned muscle car, its steady hum hinting at the raw power beneath the hood. With each chapter, the story downshifts into a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping ride, gripping readers with the intensity of a supercharged engine as Jafe Danbury masterfully navigates hairpin twists and gut-wrenching turns, each page a white-knuckle drag race that leaves you on the edge of your seat. The narrative hits the gas at unexpected moments, thrusting readers into a world where suspense is as thick as burning rubber. It's a ride that grips tighter, accelerating towards a climax as explosive as a nitrous-fueled burnout. Tension builds like the roar of a V8 engine, and just when you think you can catch your breath, Jafe Danbury floors it, leaving you breathless and craving more. Buckle up, because this heart-stopping, pulse-pounding journey will leave you yearning for another wild ride at full throttle. "So Much Forever" isn't just a book; it's an unforgettable high-speed chase that you won't want to end.

Katy Askeland

So Much Forever is the third book in the Phoenix series by Jafe Danbury. The first two books, Leaving Phoenix, and X are both excellent, but SMF takes the storytelling to a whole different level.
Curt goes missing after stopping in at the neighborhood bar to enjoy a quick drink with his coworkers. Phoenix, Pop Pop and little Rose are shocked when he doesn’t come home for the special family dinner they had planned. Little do they know, Curt has encountered a serial killer who wants Curt all for herself.
In SMF, the already close Martinsen family becomes even closer. This is a thriller that includes a little something for everyone—strong family ties, musical references, humor, dogs (you go, Sidney girl!), and lots and lots of great food, including super deeelicious black jellybeans.

Carol Nauss

Loved this book! This is the third book in the Phoenix series and a real page turner which will keep you up long past your bedtime .

Natalie Brown

Wow! This is a truly fantastic thriller because Jafe Danbury hits two very important elements. First, the reader CARES about the characters. Not only do we care about the tough, quirky, and endearing Martinsen family (they remain true to how we have gotten to know them in the first two books, but are evolving) and others in their protagonist circle, but we also find ourselves wrapped up in the compelling new antagonist. I’ll give a hint about this character while keeping in tune with one of the author’s recurring elements, musical references - Hall and Oates Maneater played over and over in my mind during her rampage! We learn about formative points in her life which elicits some brief moments of sympathy, but we’re soon smacked to our senses that this monster must be stopped.

So. Much. Food! This is a side point - the author’s penchant for food references rises to a new metaphoric level as the culinary choices of each character seem to express something about them. Keep the chips and guacamole nearby snacking while reading can’t be avoided!

So. Much. Faith! My second main point here is that in classic thriller plotting, our primary heroes, Curt and Phoenix, are put through the wringer and then wrung again. They’re challenged to the core about their faith in their own and each other’s physical and internal strength and resolve, and their future, but never waver. Moments of divine intervention, in part channeled through their little girl, appear at just the right moments and tone. This makes the characters even more real relatable as if they are just ordinary people stretched and suffering in extraordinary circumstances, and this sweeps you into the whirling dervish of their story in truly gripping fashion.

There is no thriller twist here. None is needed because it’s more about how much the protagonists can endure, and I find the honest story telling to be refreshing. Instead of an ending twist, there’s a highly satisfying ending link to the main character’s origins. Enough said. Read all three books and be amazed!

BookLife

"Danbury’s third in his Phoenix series picks up on the events from X, as the Martinsen family recovers from the kidnapping—and trafficking attempt—of their seven-year-old daughter, Rose, over a year ago. With all their energy dedicated to Rose’s emotional rehabilitation, parents Curt and Phoenix are cautiously optimistic and relieved to have their family reunited, ready for a much-deserved family break over the upcoming Easter holiday. But their plans are abruptly disrupted when Curt disappears after a post-work drink with his colleagues, throwing the family into chaos as Phoenix must balance the search for her husband while tending to her still-fragile daughter.

A tale of immense resilience, this novel offers a look at the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones—and how seemingly minor decisions can dramatically alter lives. When Tempest, a woman driven by childhood trauma and mental illness, drugs Curtis at a local bar and kidnaps him, Danbury reveals her motivations in chilling snapshots that hint at twisted logic and a desperate grab at revenge for her past abuse. The story unfolds from multiple perspectives, and Tempest emerges from those as an exceedingly dangerous, broken human—a skilled killer with a photographic memory and untreated personality disorder. Readers will find themselves teetering between hatred and sympathy for her.

Danbury delivers a crisp timeline here—the story’s events take place over merely one week’s time period, moving from warm Arizona homes to imposing mountain ranges—and the pace is electric, keeping readers guessing with a simple but powerful narrative style that builds dramatic tension without embellishment. Added to that is the novel’s nuanced view of mental illness, making this high-impact story truly compelling. So Much Forever can function as a standalone, but its charged suspense will undoubtedly compel new readers to return for the rest of the series."

Jim

Holy moly!! This one is a must-read!