Forgive Me Not

This is an excellent book and all about forgiveness and how it can be hard to do but how you have to to move forward. It's a book you just don't want to put down as so well written and shows how you can run away from problems but you are always pulled to go back and having to forgive people you love. Great characters and story plot is so believable.
Emma fled from home after making so many mistakes and letting down so many people down and hurting so many. Two years later she wants to go home to face her past at fox grove farm. Is she making the right decision she doesn't tell anyone she's coming but when she arrives it causes more problems than she dreamt of. Sadly the people she hurt aren't ready to forgive her and her mother is ill and doesn't even recognise her she struggles with this. Emma slowly starts to build the trust but then she finds a secret about her family and it changes everything she also tells then a crime she thinks she did in the past so can she settle back down or not is sorry simply not good enough.
Worth far more than the five stars I have given it just didn't want to put it down.

I was lucky enough to be invited on the cover reveal for this title a few weeks ago and since then I've been itching to read this latest offering from Samantha Tonge. Her last book One Summer In Rome wowed me and I became quite hooked on her style of writing and emotive content. This book offered so much more of this from the blurb and I was not left disappointed.

I would say that this moves away from the contemporary romance genre and centres itself firmly in family drama. The dynamic between the sisters, as well as Bligh, and the neighbours of Healdbury (all with their own faults, heartaches and problems) is key to the journey this book takes you on.

It tackles some pretty difficult subjects including dementia, addiction, homelessness and bereavement; you are constantly considering your own viewpoints as you navigate the choices and stories of the characters and I think it will really make some people realise their own preconceptions about these issues are based on inaccuracies. This book is clearly so well researched and written from the heart; this makes it compelling and incredibly poignant. However, despite the hard hitting issues, it is ultimately uplifting, full of hope and a celebration of an "ordinary life" which many often take for granted.

One final thing to say is, wow what an ending, very cleverly done and leaves you with plenty to consider.

Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

Emma has returned from Manchester, living on the streets as an alcoholic now following the 12 step program. She knows it’s time to make amends with her sister, Andrea and Bligh, her ex boyfriend for walking out on them and ruining their lives and her own. Their mother has Alzheimer’s and doesn’t recognise her and the villagers despise her. Can Emma make peace before she makes a challenging decision.

This was an emotional read and I really enjoyed it. Beautifully written.

A well written contemporary novel that I enjoyed reading. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys contemporary.

Can you go home again? Emma hopes so. She's trying to make amends for things she did when she lived at Foxglove Farm with her family. It's not so easy, though, as things have changed, her mom no longer recognizes her, and she's got a big burden to shift. Of course there's a family secret which changes her view of herself and her situation. This is a well written story of a woman coming into her own and understanding her own place in the world- and gaining the forgiveness of others but more importantly of herself. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is well written and thoughtful.

I’ve read some books by this author before and they’ve all been light-hearted romantic chick-lit type books. This book has gone in a completely different direction, and is nothing like her previous books! Two years on, Emma has returned to Foxglove Cottage, her home that she left after she’d let down and hurt the people who loved her. Returning was never going to be easy and she quickly realises that she is not welcome in the village….by anyone. Her mother, the one person she seeks forgiveness from, is suffering from dementia and can’t remember who she is, and her sister certainly isn’t welcoming her home with open arms. Can she rebuild their trust?

Emma’s character initially, for me, was confusing. There was no clue at the beginning as to what had happened two years previously, just that nobody was pleased to see her return home. As the book moves on, you realise that two years before, Emma was on a road to self-destruction with her alcohol addiction and as a result she ended up homeless and sleeping rough on the streets. You do feel for Emma throughout the book, although sometimes in a more negative way, thinking of all the hurt she caused people when she was in such a dark place. You can also feel for her family when she returns, as she had obviously done unforgiveable things and behaved in such a bad way before she had left, that it was very difficult for them to even consider forgiving her.

It certainly isn’t a light-hearted book. It tackles some strong and sensitive subjects, which some may find upsetting to read. But it is also a book of self-discovery and forgiveness. Without giving away any more of the story I think it’s safe to say it is completely different to the author’s previous books! It is though, most definitely, a book where you will need a couple of hours and a box of tissues to fully appreciate Emma’s story!

I jumped on this without a blurb, details or anything as I read her last book and loved it! The review of One Summer in Rome can be found here. This book did not disappoint in the least! I'm so glad I jumped on board.
I felt for Emma, she honestly thought her family would be so much better off without her than confronting her problems. It took her to hit rock bottom on the streets of Manchester for her to change her life. This book really is all about forgiveness. Emma feels she needs the forgiveness of her family and friends from home. But first she must learn how to forgive and love herself. She encounters problem after problem, but tries very hard to resolve them and to regain the trust of everyone around her.
This read is completely different to her Samantha Tonge's previous novel "One Summer in Rome". It is gritty, full of truths, secrets, miscarriage, self-discovery, homelessness and alcoholism. I couldn't put it down and I found myself desperate to know what happens after the book finishes. I was gutted it ended! I'm giving this book a 4/5 rating.

One stunning read to leave your emotions all over the place. Emma left Foxglove farm two years ago under rather a large black cloud. We learn more about this as the book progresses. Some chapters are now some then in decreasing time periods. She let people down as well as herself in a big way. Not only family but other people in the village where she had lived most of her life. She became homeless and lived on the streets and whilst there learnt a lot about herself as well as about others in similar circumstances. “You are braver than you believe ,stronger than you seem and smarter than you think”- a quote from Winnie the Pooh which is in the book. This is one of those books that draws you in in and you don’t quite know why. There are some sensitive issues tackled very well, however some may find this a little distressing. A girl learning about herself whilst having to fend for herself as well as fending off others in order to survive. You feel for her but have that feeling that she may have done more than had a few drinks for people to dislike her in the way that they do. Forgiveness is hard to come by and although the person themselves may move on, others have long memories and lives that were affected. Moving forward is not as straightforward as it may sound. A very meaningful read that makes you think about others’ situations and maybe even your own.
(rest of links as part of blog tour)

What a fantastic read! Insightful and enlightening...this book is an education on how it feels to be homeless (rough sleepers) as their called in England. The main character takes center stage. With the help of counselors and friends and even other rough sleepers she sees her way clear of her "character flaw"...alcoholism. I was astounded with the author's ability to delve into her emotional world. And the ending...very surprising! I even think my eyes grew wider for a minute. Thanks for for the opportunity to read this book.

Emma has been away from home for two years and in that time her problems have spiralled out of control. Having sought help she feels the time has come for her to return home to the family farm and face the mess she left behind when she fled on a whim one evening, leaving everyone and everything she knew behind.

She may have changed, but it’s clear on her return that not only her family but the local villagers can’t bring themselves to believe her. To them Emma is still the same liar and thief that left a trail of destruction her wake and it’s going to take more than a simple “sorry” for them to change their mind. Emma thinks that because she has changed her life she would be welcomed back into the fold like nothing has happened, sadly for her it’s not that simple, life has continued without her. She needs to rake back over the past in order to move forward and learn to forgive herself in the process with the only hope her family and friends will do the same.

This book joins Emma as she is en-route home to visit family and it’s not immediately clear what has happened to her since the last time she was there. The story flits between past and present gradually building a picture of Emma’s relationship with alcohol and the descent she found herself experiencing which lead to her living on the streets in Manchester. Once she hits her rock bottom we are taken on a journey, walking alongside her as she seeks help to change her life. Emma’s situation is so real for so many people and it’s impossible not to warm to her, she was my favourite character and I was rooting for her throughout.

Forgive Me Not pulls no punches, it’s a hard-hitting, gritty read that tells it like it is. Dealing with real, serious issues including homelessness, miscarriage and alcoholism, it’s a world away from Samantha’s previous novel One Summer In Rome. Despite being in stark contrast to her previous work, I absolutely adored this book, it had me in tears – always a sign of a good read – and Samantha’s writing style has the knack of drawing me in making it her books extremely difficult to put it down. The storyline of this novel is both gripping and thought provoking and really gave me plenty of food for thought about both giving and receiving forgiveness.

This is absolutely brilliant. I just feel like the more I read by Samantha Tonge, the better her books get! This was lovely and heartwarming and I couldn't put it down. It was mesmerising and I was so eager to find out what had driven our main character Emma away from her hometown a couple of years ago.

It's a beautifully written novel about family, forgiveness and learning to let go of the past. Emma tries her hardest to put things right after the mistakes she made but is it enough? Will those closest to her forgive and forget?

It's a gripping story and one I really enjoyed. There are twists and turns but this just makes it an even better read. I wasn't so sure on the novel at first when I saw the cover, as it's not the type of cover I usually get drawn to, but I've read novels by Samantha Tonge before and I enjoyed the blurb so was really pleased that I decided to give it a go. Unsure now as to why I had any doubts in the first place!

Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel via Netgalley which I have reviewed honestly.

This book made me think deeply about the concept of forgiveness. Because we are sorry, does that mean we should be forgiven? Is it more important that we forgive ourselves? Can we judge other's actions and find forgiveness for them without necessarily confronting them. When do we accept that forgiveness might no be possible? These are the issues that the main character Emma deals with during her journey to find peace with her past and stay on the right side of sobriety while paving a new future. I liked how the character of Emma was slowly painted as the author toggled between her past and present. The reader was able to fully fathom Emma's almost unimaginable decline to her gradual recovery. The secondary characters became beloved friends as Emma gradually wore them down with her newfound resourcefulness and optimism. I do not wish to give any spoilers but the ending gave the story unexpected new depth. I would love to read further about Emma as she continues to navigate her journey.

This is the first Samantha Tonge book I have read and it certainly did not disappoint... it was an excellent read... I just could not put it down, reading way into the night where my eyes could no longer stay open.

It's a story about forgiveness, self awareness, addiction, self-discovery and how hard it all can be, but continuing to move forward for a better future despite the constant pull to go back to your old ways.
The characters were really believable and you can feel a connection with them... I found myself routing for the main character Emma from the get go... but I had learnt about the previous five years of her life beforehand I may not have liked her so much... the story has a few twists and turns.
I don't like to give too much away as I think it would really spoil it knowing too much... but that last chapter... WOW!!!

I would really recommend this book... it certainly got me thinking about my life and the paths I've taken.
I would definitely give this more than 5 stars if allowed as it would be well deserved!!!

Easily one of the best books I have read this year, and its a story and its message that will stay with me for long after I've finished it.

This is an eye opening read as it deals with issues that people don't think about too much (or at least I'm ashamed to say I don't), and just goes to show that even after reaching rock bottom, there is a chance to improve your life.

It is a story of self awareness, self discovery and learning to live with your past, as well as trying to forge a better future for yourself.

This is a book that from the first few pages had completely enthralled me and I found myself reading far later into the small hours of the morning than intended, and then the following day read the majority of the book in one sitting, completely oblivious to the outside world.

I was hooked on discovering everything about Emma, from the year or so before she returned to Foxglove Farm, to how she is trying to make amends. I was enthralled by her life, which doesn't make for easy light hearted reading, and focuses on a gritty reality.

The characters, especially Emma were completely believable, and I found myself really warming to her, despite had we learnt about aspects of her past first, you may not have been as keen.

I have been a fan of Samantha Tonge's previous books for years, but whereas they were generally romantic comedies this is full deep and meaningful women's fiction, a marked change of direction, but if this is what she is capable of long may it continue.

I will say that depending on your own circumstances some of the issues tackled in this book which is clearly well researched, could be upsetting or disturbing, but yet to name them I feel would be a spoiler, and also potentially give you pre-conceptions about the book that it doesn't deserve.

Forgive Me Not is a book best read without too much prior information, just sit down for a few hours, and allow yourself to be drawn into Emma's story. I could barely tear myself away.

I am completely thrilled that I had a chance to read this book, it truly is something special.

Thank you to Netgalley and Canelo for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

I'm sure if you are a fan of Samantha Tonge you will know that this book is a slight change in direction. I guess you could say that this is a more emotive story however you will still find the same warmth and love just like in her other stories. In Forgive Me Not we meet Emma who has had a very turbulent past and as this story progresses we see exactly how her actions not only affected her but others close to her. It is a deep and honest story about what happens when a person reaches rock bottom but then luckily begins to see a way forward. After all the hardest thing to do is live with yourself and that is what Emma faces. Emma is such an interesting character, I felt drawn to her even if at times the things she did were so very wrong. I always appreciate the flaws in characters as they are truly the ones that are most realistic.

Forgive Me Not has a balance of warmth and grit that easily pulled me into the story. As we are shown Emma's past and present giving you a complex character that made me want to know more about her. The storyline isn't what I would call light hearted but I still loved the message that this books portrays. It highlights human frailty but also strength and determination. How we all have struggles that can be hard to face but it is all written in a sensitive and honest way.

The theme of forgiveness is a big one and I loved how Samantha Tonge explored this from all sides within the story. I was left thinking about the characters long after I had turned the last page proving this book had the power to get under my skin.

Thought provoking and emotional with a powerful message.

Five stars from me!

With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources and Canelo for my copy.

I have been meaning to read a Samantha Tonge book for a while now and what a superb book to start with. I have to say that the cover is stunning; it's very hard to tear your eyes away from it but, believe me, it's even better inside.

You would be forgiven (despite the book title) for thinking that you are about to read some lighthearted, hearts and flowers chick lit from looking at the cover of Forgive Me Not, however, that couldn't be further from the truth. Absolutely filled to the brim with heartrending emotion, I was surprised to find myself caring about every single character in the book and these feelings remained even after I had turned the last page. Samantha Tonge writes with such intense feelings that you can't help but become emotionally invested in the story and, with such high quality writing, I was more than happy to invest my emotions in the bank of Samantha Tonge.

Emma is our intriguing and complex main character. After leaving home under a cloud she returns to make amends, but the only welcome she receives is from the family's 3-legged dog, Dash. The reader is immediately drawn into the web of intrigue about Emma's past as you wonder what she did that was so bad that her family, friends and even the whole village don't want to know her. As the present day story plays out, the reader jumps on an emotional rollercoaster as we glimpse into Emma's past to fill in the blanks between then and now. When a family secret emerges that threatens Emma's recovery, she learns that forgiveness is a lot harder to give than she first thought, especially when you must also forgive yourself.

Forgive Me Not is a tremendously engaging, emotional and uplifting book. Emma's strength in adversity is both inspiring and heartbreaking as she carries so much weight on her shoulders and in her heart. It would be easy to turn away at the first hurdle but Emma shows great sense of character when she perseveres to show everyone that she has changed. They might not be able to forget what Emma has done but can they forgive her?

A deep and meaningful book that will definitely stay with you long after turning the final page. In fact, the final page just took the wind out of my sails and I can certainly say that I was completely blown away by Forgive Me Not.

I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

How many of you reading this, have made a mistake which later cost you the people you loved?
How many of you have found yourself stuck in a rut due to your own bad choices, have chosen to put yourself on the straight and narrow, yet people refuse to give you the benefit of the doubt?

Of course you have, we all have. We can't all be perfect.

Emma has chosen to return to the place her life changed forever - her childhood home. Even though it took Emma a lot of guts to return to the 'scene of the crime' so to speak, she found herself underestimating her family's reaction to her reappearance. Emma knows that she has made a lot of mistakes, she also knows that she has paid the price for every single one of them, but will her family see that she is being genuine? Or is it too little too late?

At first, Samantha Tonge keeps Emma's mistakes under lock and key, building my curiosity every time I turned the page. What on Earth did she do for her family to turn their backs on her? Has she learnt from her mistakes, whatever they may be?

Emma's story certainly made me sit up and take notice. At first, I couldn't see much wrong with what she did, but as soon as the author went into detail about the bad decisions Emma made, my opinion changed and I could see why the outcome is what it is. That said, I couldn't help but feel as though I was missing something as, instead of feeling as though I was reading a brand new novel with brand new characters, I felt as though I had walked into the storyline halfway through and couldn't seem to work out why I felt as though I had missed out on a lot of things. Before anyone says anything, no, I didn't begin the book halfway through, it just felt like that for me which was a bit of a shame.

However, I have to say that that was the only irk I had with the book! I loved how the authors change in direction was written from the heart, bringing the story to life on various different levels. Personally, I couldn't really ask for more!. Samantha Tonge hasn't just picked a theme from random and decided to write about it, she has chosen a theme which she knew needed to be written about to not only educate people, but to also make people take notice and think about their own decisions in life. I have to say that after reading 'Forgive Me Not', my opinion of one thing in particular has changed dramatically. Without giving anything away, I used to be like many of the characters in the book and look down my nose at people who had to set up camp where required, pretty much because I looked at it from a pessimistic and disbelieving angle. But now? Now I can't help but look at them like one of us and, if I had to choose one important lesson to take away from this book, it would definitely have to be the vague lesson I just mentioned. How could it not be?

I will say one thing though, there were times where I felt that Emma was expecting far too much from her loved ones, yet there were times where I felt as though her loved ones were hearing her but refusing to listen. The phrase 'I'm sorry', is one of the most overused lines ever. Even though, as humans, we expect apologies, how many of us can truly say that we believe every single one of them? Saying that you're sorry is all well and good, but for me it's the actions that got alongside it is what I take more notice of. Reading 'Forgive Me Not' cemented the fact that I just can't forget, but it has taught me the value of learning to forgive.

I am very proud of Samantha Tonge and this book, as I know it must have taken a lot to write a novel that is so close to home. It takes a lot of courage and determination to write something like this and personally, I think that the author has aced it.

A life-affirming, thought-provoking, emotional, and poignant novel which holds even more power than Iron Man himself. Such a pleasure to read.

Best-selling romantic comedy author Samantha Tonge makes her women’s fiction debut with a poignant, thought-provoking and extraordinary read fans of Diane Chamberlain, Rowan Coleman and Julie Cohen are going to love: Forgive Me Not.

Emma’s departure from Foxglove Farm had been fraught with misery, anguish and heartache. She had let down and disappointed the people who loved and cared for her most and had caused them untold pain with her actions. Foxglove Farm had been a part of her past Emma had been determined to put behind her, but moving on and forgetting was anything but easy. Two years might have passed since that fateful day, but Emma has never quite managed to put everything behind her, which is why Emma now feels the time has come for her to go back home. Can she ever build bridges with the people she had hurt so much? Are they ready to let bygones be bygones and begin anew when there is so much anger and resentment standing between them?

Foxglove Farm might have once been home for Emma, but the people she had turned her back on are, unsurprisingly, not keen to welcome her with open arms. Forgiving and forgetting is certainly not part of the agenda for them and the one person Emma wants to reconnect with more than anybody else – her mother – cannot remember who she is! It is going to be a long, hard and difficult road for Emma, but slowly she begins to gain their trust and reconciliation begins to seem to be within reach – until a family secret is revealed that threatens to jeopardise and destroy all of Emma’s hard work.

As past secrets and old crimes threaten to destroy the future she has been working so hard to build, will Emma ever belong at Foxglove Farm? Can she atone for her past mistakes and errors of judgments? Or is saying sorry simply not enough?

A searingly emotional, compulsively readable and affecting novel written with sensitivity, pathos and heart, Forgive Me Not is an exceptional tale of starting over, second chances and healing from the past that will strike a chord with readers everywhere, Samantha Tonge has written a wonderful story of family, forgiveness and moving on that will make readers laugh, cry and think. Having already proven herself as a first class writer of romantic comedy, Samantha Tonge adds another string to her bow with this intelligently written, heart-wrenching and compulsively readable tale.

Forgive Me Not is a book readers will remember long after the last page is turned and Samantha Tonge’s seamless switch to women’s fiction is one guaranteed to satisfy her legion of fans and win her loads of new followers – I cannot wait for her next book!

The first time I read the blurb of this book I knew it would be something special and important. I knew it would probably make me emotional and it would probably be one of those books that make us think about our lives - past, present and future. I wasn't wrong.

This book was a beautifully done. A book about forgiveness, second chances, family, and friendship... And about being human. It touched my heart because it made me realize some things about my personal life, about all the actions, mistakes and stubbornness attitude I had that cause me pain, or cause me to stay away from some people that once upon a time had an important part in my life. It doesn't mean that by staying away from some people was the wrong decision. In some cases it was the right decision, but in other, it makes me sad.

So with this book, I start thinking if I can have a second chance with some of my childhood friends. It was eye opening and the way we can create empathy with the characters speaks highly of Samatha Tonge's writing style.

But the book is also about addiction and how not only does it affect the person dealing with it (the addict) but also the family and friends. Although personally I can't relate to it, as a Social Educator, I did study about it, and I spoke with people that were going through the rehabilitation process. I listen to them talk about how it changed their relationship with family and friends. And reading Samantha's book made me think about that afternoon in the rehabilitation clinic and it made me think about life.

And if you think addiction, forgiveness, coming back home, family and friends, are all the topics that this book talks about, you are mistaken. It talks about Alzheimer's too. Again my college times helped me connect with this subject and because I understand it, it was easier to believe the storyline and the plot, related to this topic.

So, as you can see, and if you read the book you will fully understand it, this book touches a lot of strong subjects that are a part of our life, our societies. The way it's brilliantly written, with a good development of characters and plot, in a good pace of the storyline, made me feel connected to the story and feel like I know those characters in real life.

As you read the book you get to feel all of that because Samantha gives you the chance to understand all side of the story. And you end up loving the message she's trying to teach you. Aren't we all human? Don't we make mistakes? Don't we have bad moments? Don't we have cracks in our hearts, and are even self-conscious? Don't we try hard to get better when we wish and need to accomplish our goals or change our lives?

Well, we are complex beings and life is unexpected. Do we deserve forgiveness? I personally believe that sometimes the only person we have to forgive is ourselves. And other times, we really don't understand what we are loosing and all the opportunities we have lost until we really fall into an abysm and there is no more light or help, and we are stuck with the voices in our heads and all the pain and sorrow and whatever else is there. So, yes, life is messy, second chances are sometimes more like 1000 chance, it's sometimes hard to believe someone after they have disappointed us some many times, and life keeps going.

Those are just some of the thoughts I had after reading the book and thinking about forgiveness and life. Nevertheless, the realism in this book made it so much exciting to read. And for all those reason, I loved the book, and I recommend it to everyone.

This book is just fantastic. Dealing as it does with a number of incredibly sensitive subjects, there was always the chance that things could go very dark, very quickly. However, Samantha’s delicate handling of each and every one of these topics made the book thought provoking, but never depressing. this book serves as a resounding reminder to just be kind to the people you meet. Everyone has their own story, their own struggles, which are not detectable by the naked eye.

The book is exceptionally poignant and covers some tough subjects such as alcoholism, homelessness, and forgiveness. All were handled with care and thoroughly researched, which shows in the superb, realistic writing.

The story moves between the present day and months before Emma’s return home in which she was in Manchester and sleeping rough in the city centre. With Manchester being my hometown it was lovely (even in the circumstances) to see all the areas mentioned, giving me plenty of scope to perfectly visualise the scenes. It was also eye-opening to see just what those sleeping rough in the city go through.

‘Forgive Me Not’, is a new direction in writing for Samantha Tonge, away from her Rom Coms. She may have thought it was a risk heading in a different direction, but it definitely has paid off as this book was an absolute joy to read. I loved every minute of it and congratulate Samantha Tonge on writing a fabulous, heartfelt and insightful, book that will stay with me for a long time.

Samantha Tonge's new departure into writing fiction that deals with quite dark subjects is an interesting one. Her style is still the same and at first, I kept hearing the author's voice which jarred with the serious topics discussed. After a while, though I became thoroughly engrossed in the story.
I felt torn between Emma seeking forgiveness and her sister's inability to forgive. I felt I was being pulled in two directions and both were right. Sometimes we can't forgive yet we need to in order to move on. Emma quite rightly needed to do more than just apologise and the flashbacks to her life before show us that but for the grace of god etc. This is a wonderful book for raising awareness of the plight of the homeless. Perhaps before we judge we should remember that it could happen to any of us. The ending is a shocker yet so poignant. It certainly gives food for thought and perhaps reminds us all simply to be kind to each other as we really don't know what is going on behind closed doors.

This is an emotional, compelling and eye-opening book. The themes of human frailty, addiction, and forgiveness are woven through a poignant story which kept me gripped. Highly recommended!

4 Captivating Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

This was a beautiful book about forgiveness, mistakes, second chances, addiction, family, and friendship... I have a very personal connection to this book... my life as well as the lives of my children have been touched by addiction... so when I read a book like this with an alcoholic who I am meant to sympathize with it is somewhat difficult... because I know far too well what it is like to pick up the pieces and hold a family together in the wake of addiction... will I ever forgive the person in my life who has left me to clean up the mess? Probably not! But I have to say Samantha Tonge has done an extremely good job of creating a very empathetic character in Emma.....

Emma returns home after several years away... she has spent time on the streets, battled her addiction, and now wants to return to her family... The reunion however is not filled with tears of happiness and hugs... her mother is suffering from early onset Alzheimers and doesn’t even know who Emma is... her sister Andrea is bitter and angry, Emma left her to deal with her mother’s health issues and all the family’s financial issues alone.... will the sisters ever have a strong relationship again? And does Emma deserve her sister’s love and forgiveness?

This book really gave you a lot of food for thought.... Emma was a very likable character, especially in the beginning when you did not know her past... but when do you remember the past and when do you let it go? There were times in this book I felt as though Andrea and the other towns people were being very harsh and unfair to Emma, but then I thought that was slightly hypocritical of me.... was Emma a good person who made some mistakes? And if so what should the cost of those mistakes be? I just don’t know.... are all actions forgivable?

This book also touches on the issue of homelessness... The homeless in this Book were referred to as “rough sleepers” a term I have never heard before... i’m not really sure if this added anything to the story? Although there was a character who I particularly liked that was homeless... also I am not quite sure what the laws in the UK are as far as mental illness and homelessness, so the problem might be completely different in the US? I have no idea.... I think it is a problem no matter where you are, it just might be a completely different problem from one country to another dependent upon laws....

This was a well told nicely paste story with well develop characters... absolutely recommend if you enjoy books that really make you think and don’t shy away from the tough issues...

*** many thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book ***

Emma is an addict attempting to make amends for her misdeeds while she used. After a year of homelessness and a failed relationship, Emma goes back home to try and repair her destroyed bond with her sister. Upon return, she discovers that lost time will stay lost forever. Her mother has Alzheimers and several key people in her life have died or left. Despite all of Emma's efforts, many broken stones will never be mended. The author leaves us on the eve of Emma's biggest and most life-changing apology. 

Ms. Tonge does a beautiful job evoking empathy for Emma. She's made mistakes on her journey through addiction and we're allowed to see each embarrassing moment of groveling as she tries to rebuild her life. There are moments when I was very angry with the rigid way that others approached Emma - but there were also many moments where asking this cast to forgive Emma seemed beyond human capacity for love and faith. 

I'm currently in the middle of a very difficult act of forgiveness for one of the addicts in my life and this book stomped all over those tender feelings. I never regret compassion - and this book definitely provoked quite a bit - but I was also angry at Emma for selfishly wanting to be forgiven for her behavior and demanding that of people who had yet to heal. Her year of sobriety SHOULD be a stellar event, and yet, as even the text tells, addiction is rarely a one-and-done experience. My heart ached for the risk each person took as they slowly accepted Emma back into their circle of trust.

Thank you to Canelo for my copy of this book via Netgalley. I have previously read some of Samantha's books and I really enjoyed them but this book was a little different to Samantha's usual genre. 

Usually Samantha's books are romance based. This book however was not. I don't quite know how to describe it. It wasn't thriller, it wasn't your typical chick lit, it wasn't a horror. If I had to place this in a genre I would really struggle. 

Emma left her home and family 2 years ago. She has been to hell and back in that time and has now turned her life around. She returns hoping for a family reunion. While things don't go quite like she hoped I think it was still the right decision. Emma is a hard character to love but also a hard character to hate. She has made so many bad choices in her past. However, in her present she is trying so hard to not to necessarily make up for those choices but to make a difference.

Some parts of this were quite hard to read. It's scary how some of the character's lives changed and how close we can be to the edge. This book really made me stop and think. 

Samantha's writing was engaging and I really struggled to put this book down. Like I said I have read some of Samantha's previous books but I think this book was another level. I think this genre suits her writing better than her romance novels. 

The ending left the story a little unfinished and I would love to carry on that thread. I think Samantha has another book planned in this genre so I'm very excited for this.

Forgive Me Not is Samantha Tonge's first departure away from her well loved romcoms. This story sees the author tackling serious subjects and also issues that some areas of society still struggle to talk about.
We all at times draw a conclusion to someone on their first appearances but when you actually sit down and talk openly to that person and understand the reasoning behind their current situation you start to open your eyes and mind and appreciate that their character is far more in depth than their current situation.
Young Emma's life had been slowly spiralling out of control; disobeying her mum and her sister's wishes she was constantly out partying, had turned to stealing to fuel her lust for her addiction and believed her wild ways made great insta-feed. However, one Christmas Eve her foolish ways became too much and Emma was forced to move out of the family home. Emma thought she'd hit rock bottom then but worse was to come. Now homeless, shunned from her family Emma sought solace in the streets of the city. A total contrast to her home on the farm. She soon adjusted and became accustomed to days rolling into nights and back again looking for her next addictive fix. Her rock bottom came a little later, when not only her life was at risk but the life of another. Eventually Emma had no choice but to ask for help.
Nearly a year and a half had lapsed since Emma's rock bottom and she felt ready to return home. We follow Emma on her journey back home to seek forgiveness from so many, we also travel back to her dark days when times were tough. Would Emma's family, friends and neighbours welcome her back with open arms or would old wounds of the hurt and damage she had caused still be too deep a wound to have healed over?
I was totally absorbed in this story that opened my eyes to situations that people sometimes find themselves, through no fault of their own, in. It was quite thought provoking at times but the author has woven some lovely inspirational, endearing moments into the story. However, there a few twists in the tale that shake your emotions in to a tailspin The story also makes you take a look at yourself in a different light and learning to accept yourself is the first step to any chance of acceptance.
Totally absorbing, thought provoking but filled with a sense of hopefulness.

I previously read One Summer in Rome by Samantha Tonge, and I just knew that I would be in for another treat. This book has a harder edge to it but the characters and plot were equally as compelling and the author doesn't shy away from some sensitive subjects. The issues are extremely well researched, informative and thought-provoking.

The main character Emma returns to her former home, Foxglove Farm, to make amends for something she did in the past. Her family are hostile, even the villagers and the pub landlord are unhappy to see her back, but what could she have done that was so bad?

The book takes us back to what happened to Emma whilst she was away, and she certainly had a rough time, but the reader is not told why Emma's life hit rock bottom until much later. This kept me gripped and made me think how easily life can turn on its head and the unthinkable can happen to almost anyone.

The book is about forgiveness and new starts in life. Emma seems determined to do whatever she has to do to regain her place in the family. Since she left, her mother's health has deteriorated rapidly, and sister Andrea feels angry that she has been her mother's carer along with running the farm almost singlehandedly.

The characters are completely believable, flawed and strong. I wasn't sure about some of them at first, but in typical Samantha Tonge style, the reasons become apparent as the story unfolds. I loved how the family sheepdog accepted Emma back without hesitation, it was heartwarming to see that one relationship could never be broken.

Forgive Me Not is a warm yet thought-provoking tale about hitting rock bottom and the tough climb back out of the rut. Samantha Tongue’s writing is honest, observant and raw and at times this makes for uncomfortable reading because it often rings true. As we go on with our daily lives, it’s easy to forget or ignore the struggles of others. It’s a no-holds-barred story about fighting for a second chance to be a better person. It’s a must read.

Even though this was a work of fiction, the storyline of forgiveness and addiction is true to life. Anyone that has a loved one or who has suffered from addiction can relate to this. Definitely recommend!

This is a fabulous book!!

I loved everything about this book from the gorgeous front cover to the ending!

I have been a fan of this authors books for a while now and I was delighted to see that this book was being released and sat patiently for it to be available for me to read – and I have to say now, I absolutely loved it – I read it in a few hours after it landed on my Kindle and have been raving about it to family and friends since!

The book has some fantastic characters and I warmed to hem right from the outset, the story is one that makes you think and it is one that will stay with me – definitely five stars and easily one of the best books I’ve read in 2018!!

Make sure you grab your copy now – it will be worth it – I loved the whole thing!

This book was so good. I didn't expect it from the first few chapters. Once you get into the book, you learn about making amends and the other person's role in it. I literally could not stop reading.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a real emotional rollercoaster which has been beautifully written. Emma is an alcoholic who is currently sober. She is going back home to ask forgiveness for her past actions. This story tackles homelessness and its causes and alcoholism. It is hard hitting and sympathetic. There is a lot of compassion in this book. There is a lot to think about in this book. I would definitely recommend this book and I will be looking out for more books by this author.

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

Forgive me Not was a story about family and forgiving what has happened in the past and moving on to a better life.

I really bonded with Emma in the story and the problems she was faced with, I have never read any books by this author before I will definitely be on the lookout for her other books, this was a fabulous read, I really enjoyed it.

There but for the grace of God...

If nothing else, this book shows us how easy it could be to find oneself in the exact same predicament. Homeless doesn't mean hopeless and this story is so full of hope it almost made me cry. And to think that the author based it on some of her own experiences  especially her dependence on alcohol, made it all the more poignant.

I've got a feeling this story will stay with me for a very long time to come.

Heartfelt, heartwarming writing that makes you think - Ms Tonge has done an excellent job!

I am a huge fan of this author and couldn’t wait to read her latest offering.

This is a brilliant story showcasing forgiveness, homelessness and the fragility of life itself. It made me laugh and cry in equal measures. I had so much sympathy for Emma while reading, and was desperate for her to find some peace of mind and acceptance at some point. Her journey is not an easy one, but perseverance eventually pays off and she begins to find her feet again.

This is a great book and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting a feel good story to read.

Huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.

Samantha Tonge really outdid herself with this book. The words like amazing and incredible I usually use to describe a book I enjoy don’t really fit here. That doesn’t mean it wasn’t a well-written book because it was, and it was a very emotionally moving book.

Emma returns home after leaving years ago after alienating not only her family but almost the entire village. She is hoping she can make amends, but she quickly finds out it won’t be as easy as she thought. To make matters worse, her mother doesn’t recognize her. When she was away, she worked very hard to become a better person, and now all the skills she learned will put her to the test.

The book was described as a “gritty, heartbreaking novel that will take your breath away.” Those are the perfect words to describe it. Emma is a complicated character…yes, she did some really horrible things. As you read, you will see that she also was dealing with something that exacerbated her issues. She did have consequences. She lost everything she held dear, and she reaches deep down inside to not lose herself again. I really admired her for that.

Without spoiling anything, I have to say, this book hit very close to home for me. We recently lost someone close to our family who suffered with what Emma struggled with. Seeing things from Emma’s perspective opened my eyes and made me think. It also made me see the importance of forgiveness. When a writer can move me like that, she has more than done her job!

’ve read all of Samantha Tonges books and enjoyed them all immensely. This book is in a completely different vein from previous reads. This read is a journey of discovery and a quest for forgiveness which contains a story that will not leave you for quite some time. A at times heart breaking account of family life ripped apart by alcohol and Alzheimer’s. The description of the effort needed to fight internal demons and build bridges is portrayed in such a real way. I did not see the twist at the end! An amazing read. I finished this in 24 hours as I could not put it down. This book is a fantastic reading web you need to tangle your self up in

It was only after I read Samantha Tonge's blog post that I realised just how personal this book is to her. (You can read her post here). Forgive Me Not is a courageous piece of writing and deals with its subject matter in a clear- sighted but non-judgemental way. You build up a respect for Emma and wonder at her resilience which she shows she has, to keep going despite the rebuffs she finds in her home village. I don't want to talk in detail about her situation as that would spoil the read. Through a series of flashbacks, you learn about her struggle to get back to the person she wanted to be. The layers of her character are peeled back and, in the end, you get to see just who she is.

In addition to Emma's problems, there is the heart-breaking situation of her mother who can no longer remember who she is. Her sister cannot forgive her but is clearly barely managing. There is also a cast of other complicated characters who live in the village who have been affected by her previous actions. You get to see how Emma acquires the skills to help others through practical actions. I was not prepared for the reveal right at the end of the story which I had not seen coming but which left me wanting to know what happened next.

This is a real class act of a novel. It has hope and despair in equal measure and the author weaves a tapestry which portrays the fragility of everyday life.

In short: A gem of a book which challenges your perceptions and touches you with its honesty.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

Wow, this was a powerful book. Emma is an alcoholic trying to make amends with her family. It's very realistic and true to life look at relationships, family, and addiction. There were parts that were a bit tough to read but very touching.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

Emma had decided to return home to Foxglove Farm after being away for over two years, but what will her reception be........ she certainly didn't leave on good terms! Her optimism is totally blown out of the water, her sister hates her and can't even look at her and her mother has dementia and doesn't know who she is. For once in her life though Emma is determined not to run away and so stays to try and build bridges and give the much needed help to her sister

A great book it works well telling Emma's back story in flashes and I loved all the stories of the homeless people showing how anyone can end up in that predicament, andI thought it was a great little twist at the end.