Forgiven Never Forgotten


Romance - Historical
247 Pages
Reviewed on 12/07/2023
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite

In Forgiven Not Forgotten by Susan Leigh Furlong, Rory Campbell is a headstrong young man who should not pursue the MacDonald girl. But Rory always goes for what he wants, no matter what. Joneta MacDonald has never met anyone like Rory and falls in love with him immediately, refusing to marry the man her family has chosen for her. Because of their clan rivalry, they can only meet clandestinely and write letters. They secretly marry and plan to flee together. These plans, however, are cut short, and Rory finds himself about to be hanged for a heinous crime committed by the Campbell clan against the MacDonalds. Joneta is torn between feelings of trust, rage, and betrayal. Is it possible that the man who claimed to love her would join in the slaughter of her people?

Susan Leigh Furlong’s gripping book, Forgiven Not Forgotten, tells a moving story of forgiveness and redemption. The story takes place in a vividly rendered setting, filled with intricately detailed characters, while maintaining a delicate balance between mystery and emotion. Readers are drawn into the lives of Furlong’s characters as they struggle with the complexity of their pasts through her evocative and captivating prose. The story deftly examines themes of reconciliation, making this an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. Forgiven Not Forgotten is engrossing and leaves a lasting impression. It has a steady plot, engaging characters, and skillfully written scenes. Furlong shows that unconditional love can mend even the deepest wounds. Forgiven Not Forgotten is perfect for lovers of historical romances.

Miche Arendse

Joneta MacDonald never thought she would be betrayed by the man who had sworn his loyalty and heart to her but when the king's soldiers come to wreak havoc, she sees him with her own eyes. Forgiven Never Forgotten by Susan Leigh Furlong follows Rory Campbell as he attempts to clear his name of the false accusations made against him. But that is easier said than done when witnesses place him at the scene, and especially when one of those witnesses is the woman he loves.

Forgiven Never Forgotten by Susan Leigh Furlong is a well-written and enticing tale that navigates the complexities of relationships, loyalty, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. The characters are richly developed and well-fleshed out, each having their struggles, fears, and desires. I was very moved by Rory's determination to prove his innocence and win back Joneta's trust. His efforts were palpable, creating a sympathetic protagonist whose struggles will resonate with readers. On the other hand, Joneta's internal conflict, torn between her love for Rory and the weight of her clan's hatred, adds emotional depth to the story. What drew me in was the fact that we can see both characters' perspectives and how they impact each other throughout the story, all while seeing how the plot unravels. Overall, Forgiven Never Forgotten is a beautifully written 'forbidden love' story that will tug at your heartstrings. I think any lover of romance novels will enjoy this book and all its literary charms.

Pikasho Deka

Forgiven Never Forgotten is a historical romance by Susan Leigh Furlong. It's the 1690s in the Scottish Highlands. After a chance encounter at the Highland Fair, Joneta MacDonald and Rory Campbell fall head over heels for each other despite both belonging to rival clans. The two lovers meet often and eventually get married, unbeknownst to their families. But when soldiers murder members of the MacDonald clan on King William's orders, Rory, although innocent, is blamed and framed for the massacre. While Joneta's older brother, John, swears vengeance, Rory is seemingly hanged for his actions. However, things are not as they seem, and after a tearful reunion, Rory and Joneta now have to escape the clutches of King William and his underlings and the wrath of Laird John MacDonald.

Set around the events of the Massacre of Glencoe, Susan Leigh Furlong spins a moving romance for readers. Forgiven Never Forgotten is a powerful love story with the late 17th-century Scottish Highlands as the backdrop, which history buffs will relish. In an absorbing narrative, Furlong captures the terrain, politics, and clan rivalry of that era and location brilliantly, making the story all the more immersive for the reader. The plot moves at a brisk pace and has its share of curveballs that leave you wondering what's going to happen next. Reading Joneta and Rory's scenes makes you feel like you're watching two real-life lovers interact. I was especially impressed by Furlong's masterful usage of the old Scottish dialect in the dialogue. Romance and historical fiction readers are bound to love Forgiven Never Forgotten!