This is the highly anticipated story of the parents of Sarah Eden’s Jonquil brothers. I was not sure exactly what to expect but was pleasantly blown away by this lovely story. It has all the things that Sarah Eden fans enjoy. Witty banter, wonderful characters, and heartbreaking struggles. I didn’t expect to feel such a personal connection to Julia. I could really feel her pain. I think fans of Sarah Eden’s Jonquil brothers will be vastly pleased with this story of a couple we have only seen thusly through the eyes of their children. And what fun for newbies that they can start here at the beginning of it all!

I’ve read Eden’s Jonquil series and loved them (the characters, but the stories too) so much. This was a wonderful glimpse into the martriarch, which makes me want to re-read the whole series to see how my new-found knowledge influences my interpretation of family dynamics. One complaint I have about this book is that it ended. Ha. I would’ve liked it to just continue until the time period of the first book in the Jonquil series. Or at least have an epilogue added with a glimpse into the future.

Nevertheless, I am extremely excited about the rest of the Gent series! This was a great intro to the other five gents and I’ve already become a bit attached to them, so I look forward to each of their stories with great anticipation.

I love Sarah M. Eden's books and have read a lot of them. I especially love her books about the Jonquil brothers. Imagine my excitement when I learned that this book was about another Jonquil-- not one of the original brothers, but one who has a band of friends who are his "brotherhood." They call themselves "The Gents"-- and other assorted nicknames. The story portrays Lucas and Julia and the beginnings of their friendship to the beginnings of their marriage. It is truly a story you will love-- I did!

Julia Cummings was so lonely. Her family was dead except for her father and her. Stanley, her brother, and Lucas from the estate next door were like brothers to her. But Stanley and James, Lucas's youngest brother, dashed off to fight in the war with America. James died within a year and Stanley died a year or so at Yorktown. He lost two brothers and a little sister. She lost her Mom, her sister, her best friend and Stanley.
Lucas Jonquil only had his parents left. When James died he vowed he was going to make his life burn bright. But he does not include Julia or even gives her warning when he takes off. He is all she has left. So when he moves to a small estate to try to manage it. She is left alone for years on end, she starts building her barriers. She does not want to get hurt anymore.
I found this a wonderful story. I feel sorry for her. She has no one. He does not seem to be happy to see her sometimes. When he came back from the Continent after being gone for a year, Their parents betrothed them at a ball. They were certainly upset. They fought tooth and nail to no avail. Without telling her, he planned to go to Portugal with the gents but not her. When she found out she ran.
Julia was very confused she didn't know what to do. So she did nothing but go home.
The characters were engaging and loving. Because Lucas liked entertaining they went to their ball. The situation was reversed. The wife loved to travel and he and his son were stuck at home. she never told him where or when. I have never read this author but I sure loved the book. I look forward to reading more.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily read it.

I am so excited for this new series. I am sure it will be a favorite after reading this book. Lucas and Julia have been friends since childhood, even though there was a nine year age gap. Julia was allowed to tag along with Stanley (her older brother) and Lucas in their adventures. When each of then lose all of their siblings through sickness, accidents or war they react in different ways. Lucas determines to live his life to the fullest and have adventures to make up for the lives lost. Julia feels abandoned, especially when Lucas leaves on his adventures and doesn't say a word to her. To compensate for the feelings of abandonment she feels from her lost siblings, mother and Lucas' leaving she builds walls around her heart. She becomes isolated. When a surprise arranged marriage is thrust upon them many frustrations and hurt are brought forth. Enter 'The Gents' a group of Lucas' friends that help right the rocking boat. I love the Gent's and can hardly wait for each of their stories. This book is so fun, witty, romantic and sweet. I loved it!!!

Ok, you just can't help but love this book if you are at all familiar with the Jonquil family.

Seeing Mater as a young Julia was so much fun. Oh my gosh her wedding dress!! I laughed out loud about that one and it made me appreciate more her commitment to be in mourning after 10 years, which you see in all the books about her sons. How fun to see Julia interact with the Duke of Kielder as well. I love how she had a tender spot for him and how they both suffered from the pain of being left behind.

Lucas. The dunderhead! I lived finally meeting the famous father of the Jonquil brothers. He was, of course, an idiot when it comes to women but that's to be expected. I appreciated his efforts to live live fully in honor of his friends and loved ones. And his interaction with The Gents was so fun. I hope that is going to turn into a series!

The one thing I didn't really like was how quickly Lucas seemed to decide he loved Julia. There didn't seem to be any thought process that lead up to it he just one day shortly after they were married decided he was in love with her. I can get over that though.

Would have like an epilogue with one of their sons being born!

Already looking forward to whatever miss Eden writes next because I can guarantee I will read it.

Sarah M. Eden deftly brings the reader into the minds and hearts of her characters.  You experience their emotional highs and lows along with them, every stem of their formative journey.  I love the insights into Lucas and Julia's developing philosophies and approaches to life that guide their decisions and actions in the future.  It is fascinating to have the Jonquil brothers encapsulated, as I can see echoes of whom they will become in their parents' quirks, hobbies, and personalities.  I am inspired to become a better person and a better parent by the Gents, Lucas, and Julia.

As a dedicated Sarah M. Eden fan, this tender love story was a delightful glance into the past of some of her characters.  You do not need to have read any of her other novels, however, to enjoy this wonderful book!  This book, while connected by shared characters to the Jonquil brothers series and the Lancaster series, stands alone (consistent with the writing style of this gifted author).  This book is the beginning of a whole new series.

Eden is especially talented at establishing and developing unique characters, which are soon endeared to the reader.  She has masterfully introduced the Gents, a group of friends so close they consider each other brothers, such that we see them individually, clearly, and memorably.  Connections and insights into the future world Eden has already created and characters she has fleshed out will delight repeat Eden readers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Despite a few moments of "isn't this the 18th century?", I couldn't have loved this book more. Lacked all the day-to-day life drudgery that some historical romances have in overabundance, but never seemed shallow or rushed. Characters were completely lovable and the plot was original and relatively believable. Absolutely cannot wait for the continuation of this series.

Forget Me Not
The Gents, #1
by Sarah Eden
Back of the Book: “NOTTINGHAMSHIRE, 1785
Julia Cummings has long been acquainted with loss—her mother, her brother, her sister, her friend, all gone too soon. But the loss that pushed her grief to the limit as a young girl was that of her best friend, Lucas Jonquil, who abandoned her without looking back. Now, eight years later, Lucas has returned to Lampton Park, and Julia has steeled herself—she will never forgive the man who broke her heart.
After losing too many of his friends and family to early deaths, Lucas vowed to live life to the fullest. And after traversing the world, he has returned from his adventures to find his family and home much as he left them—except for Julia. The little girl he left behind has blossomed into a captivating lady, a lady who makes it clear she despises him. With little hope of reconciliation, the former friends are blindsided when their parents make a shocking announcement. Lucas and Julia have been betrothed without their knowledge and are to marry immediately. Now Lucas must rely on the help of his closest friends to win the heart of a lady who loathes him—a lady he’s coming to love more deeply every day.”
Impressions: This was an ok read. I didn’t dislike it but I didn’t like it overly much either. The prelude story was repeated at the beginning of the story and didn’t in sync with each other.
Liked: I liked the idea of the “Gents” and having friendships that are strong in life. I think the idea of being thrown into a relationship and prearranged marriages are intriguing. I often think it silly to imagine who my own parents would have betrothed me to had they picked my future spouse when I was young. Also, a terrifying thought! Noting the title, I love flowers that have meaning behind them. Julia’s thoughts that “People were forever leaving her behind” was later restored with some forget me nots. It would be so exciting to get a bouquet of flowers to decipher. Wouldn’t that be fun!
Disliked: I felt like the pet names that Lucas used were a bit forward. Although they had been friends they were trying to reacquaint and “sweeting” is more of a familiar endearment that didn’t fit their relationship. Even later he calls her sweetheart and it feels premature. I also felt his reference, and hers, to him tutoring her sounded condescending. I don’t know why. Ok lastly, I think their first kiss was untimely. The couple’s feelings were still cautious. Was a passionate kiss really appropriate?
Learned: I think that the idea of going back to the basics in a relationship can be helpful in sorting out your feelings and moving forward. If nothing else it can be fun and remind you of better times.
Quotes: “’ Build on your mutual happiness,” Aldric said, “and you will have a strong enough foundation on which to endure the moments of pain.’”
“So long as she never actually saw herself, she could almost believe she looked the way she would like.” – Have you ever felt this way? I feel like I have. If I get ready and I feel good before looking in the mirror then my confidence takes a nosedive. This is a bit out of context because she wanted to be in denial of what she looked like but none the less I thought it was worth thought and self-reflection.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

When you are forever being left, can you trust enough to love?
This is a great book with well rounded characters and a plot that will pull you in and keep you wanting to continue reading. Julia has lost loved ones again and again. Some by death others by leaving her behind until now her world consists of only her and her father. Mother, siblings and even close childhood friends have died leaving her alone. All are gone except Lucas, but he has no time or room in his life for her. Time and time again he has left promising to visit or write each time to break his word and a little bit of Julia’s heart. Suddenly Lucas and Julia are forced together at a ball given by Lucas’ parents, only to hear the announcement that they are now engaged. How can a man who desires travel, adventure and excitement wed a woman who is a homebody? How can a woman who has closed her heart after so much loss and abandonment move forward? Such a great book. The characters have such depth and completeness that you will find yourself crying, smiling and wishing you could be part of their lives. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

#forgetmenot #netgalley

I love Sarah Eden's books and this one did not disappoint. I was moved to tears several times throughout the book because my heart just went out to the characters. My heart would break for them over and over again. This is a story about how the odds just seem stacked against both of the main characters, will they ever be able to put aside their misgivings and have a happily ever after? You'll have to read to find out!

Forget Me Not by Sarah Eden is an excellent historical romance that is the first book in a new series: The Gents. I have been a fan of Ms. Eden for a while, so I was excited to be able to read a new series from the very beginning. This book takes place in the latter part of the 19th century England and focusses on the rekindling of a childhood relationship estranged and learning to find love, friendship, acceptance, forgiveness, and happiness in a new relationship/marriage made by both parties' parents. Julia and Lucas were friends growing up, Lucas left to find himself and travel the world returning to find that their parents have created a marriage contract for both to join estates and titles. Misunderstandings, confusion, and fear grip Julia after her feelings of loss and being left behind when Lucas left their childhood home. Now being "forced together" by their parents, both have to learn to forgive, forget, trust each other again and in the process, hope to build a strong foundation that can support a successful marriage.


I really loved everything about this book. I loved being able to take a front seat into experiencing the blossoming relationship and love that Julia and Lucas create in this story. I love how both characters are complex and unique. Both have experienced their losses. Both have been "left behind" by people that they loved, whether friends or family, that have passed away and are now partly changed from it. Both are likeable, realistic, imperfect, and have strong moral compasses. I loved seeing their growth, maturity, and strengths. I loved the change that I saw in both.

I also enjoyed the introduction to the group of guy friends that Lucas is a part of. I hope that by meeting all of these fun, cheeky, witty guys, that each subsequent book will focus on each one. I think that would make a fine series. I cannot wait to see what is in store for these Gents.

5/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Covenant Communications for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Instagram accounts immediately and to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.

FORGET ME NOT by SARAH EDEN is a rollicking romance which takes place in Nottinghamshire in the late 1700's. The characters are delightful and unforgettable, especially Lucas Jonquil"s five friends who make up the "Gents" and who do their utmost best to help their friend win over his beautiful wife, Julia, being very critical of his many mistakes in courting her.
Imagine being forced into an arranged marriage, even if you are marrying a special friend from your childhood! We are kept guessing if the Gents will succeed in their quest and if true love will blossom between Julia and Lucas.
It is a most enjoyable read and one I can highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Covenant Communications. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

This was a strong start to what I can only assume will be an equally strong series. This is the first Eden book I've read, and it was great. I am not as steeped in historical romance as I am contemporary, but this was witty and wonderfully written while including details that allowed it to remain true to the era. Having never read Eden also want to point out the steam level of this book is at a 1 out of 5 - haven't done enough research to know if that's her norm.

The Gents (Lucas' schoolmates and best friends) are fabulous characters. Only having gotten a brief sense of them (mainly Kel and Digby) I can already tell I'll enjoy their installments in the series. Julia too was a sweet character, and I truly felt for her and sympathized with her insecurities around abandonment. Lucas was clearly a good man - but he was a hard lead to root for given his general aloofness around how his actions had hurt Julia in the past. Lucky he had the Gents to sort him out.

As much as the behavior of Lucas' parents and Julia's father were historically accurate to the time period, they were heart-wrenching nonetheless. Their springing the marriage upon their kids and the general lack of communication during this era made for a rocky beginning to their kids' marriage. Obviously it made for a great book, but I felt for Lucas and Julia nonetheless!

Definitely looking forward to the other Gents' tales - and will probably go back to the other novels Eden has already written too.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Sarah Eden's "Forget Me Knot" is the first installment of her new Gents series. A prequel of sorts to her fabulous Jonquil series, This features Lucas Jonquil and Julia Cummings, the parents of those delightful Jonquil men.

Their path to happiness is predictably rough. Both have suffered the loss of too many loved ones. Julia has become somewhat reclusive, while Lucas deals with his grief by travelling extensively and climbing mountains, of all things.

The story picks up when all the Gents arrive, determined to help the seriously clueless Lucas save his floundering marriage. A cast of vastly entertaining characters, this close-knit group saves the day. Their banter is highly amusing and while I have a favorite Gent, they're all great!

I love all of the works of Eden's I've read. Julia and Lucas's story deserved to be told, but if I'm not mistaken, one Jonquil brother remains unmarried. Adam Boyce makes a sweet but sad appearance as a six-year-old. Other names, but not the actual people, surface in the Jonquil series.

Eden's prose is a delight as always. This short novel is clean and well-edited. I look forward to the next book in this wonderful new series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC of this fantastic novel.

#ForgetMeNot #NetGalley

What a tender story., I had such a hard time putting this book down. Julia Cummings, has felt the loss of so many loved ones. Growing up near Lampton Park with her brother Stanley and the Jonquil brothers, Julia loved to be included in their adventures. Lucas Jonquil, always seemed to see Julia as a young girl who followed his friends and him around. With the losses of family and friends, Julia had hoped that Lucas would see her and still include her, but she feels forgotten, by him. When Lucas's parents and Julia's father, arrange a marriage between the two, the wrong kind of sparks fly. Julia wonders if she will ever feel included or will she always feel forgotten. I loved this view into the early starting of the Jonquil family and a great start to a new series called The Gents.

Absolutely divine, beautifully sweet book

I completely enjoyed reading Forget Me Not. Julia's story gives a realistic telling of a woman's place within most marriages. It also gives hope that at least some men can be understanding like Lucas. I am certainly not endeared to the arranged marriage part.

All in all, it is a great book.

I love Sarah M. Eden’s books, and was so excited to read, Forget Me Not, essentially a prequel to the Jonquil series. And I can honestly say that I loved this story, too. But this one was rather difficult to love, and the hero certainly didn’t make it any easier. Men can be somewhat clueless at times, but one hopes when the error is pointed out to them, they can learn from their mistakes. Or at least try to. But it took waaaay too long for the hero to realize he’d ever done anything hurtful in his whole life, even after his thoughtlessness was pointed out to him repeatedly by his group of friends. Could he really be so selfish? Apparently yes. The book ended on a positive note, of course, but I’m still mistrustful of the hero. I do enjoy his friends, the Gents, however, and am greatly looking forward to their stories.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I have been savoring this review in my head. I love everything Jonquil and this story was everything good in this fictional world. If you are familiar with the Jonquil series, you are in for a treat while being introduced to their parents' love story, It started as anything but a love story.

Julia has known loss and has kept to home to protect herself from more loss. Lucas has done what he can to escape his similar losses. He promises to write her, but forgets that promise. By the time their marriage is arranged by their parents, Julia wants nothing to do with Lucas.

This book is the first in a series about "The Gents" and we are privileged to meet them on this journey, because who is a Jonquil without someone to remind him he is an idiot.

We see glimpses of others that we have met before in Sarah M Eden's books including many familiar places. If you haven't met this family yet, this would be a great place to start. However, I am going to give the following warning: make sure you have time to read them all, Sarah M Eden has a way of drawing you in and taking up your time with her novels.

This is a fantastic story and I found myself laughing and crying and becoming thoroughly lost between the pages.

I was given a complimentary copy and these are my own thoughts.