What do you think?
Rate this book
Forgotten
Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford) have been best friends forever.
January 2002
When Ash meets Ford, he is six years old.
His mom is too busy taking care of his younger brothers, his dad is too angry. There’s nobody in the world who will care about Ash, nobody who will love him for who he really is. That is, of course, until Ashford Hale comes into his life.
August 2024
Two weeks after a car accident, Ford wakes up from a medically induced coma with no memory of the past two years. A fractured elbow, some bruising, but nothing else seems out of the ordinary.
Except, his life is completely different now. His best friend Ash is right beside him when Ford wakes up, and there’s a new light in his eyes; a new softness in the way Ash holds Ford’s hand. Ford has so many questions, and his mind has very few answers.
How did he end up in a relationship with his best friend in 2024? Will the headache ever leave him alone? And who the hell is Winnie? What else has he forgotten?
Forgotten is the first novel in the Memory Loss Series, starring Ashley Bergman. This MM romance can be read as a standalone and the happy ending is guaranteed. Please refer to the content warnings for more information.
January 2002
When Ash meets Ford, he is six years old.
His mom is too busy taking care of his younger brothers, his dad is too angry. There’s nobody in the world who will care about Ash, nobody who will love him for who he really is. That is, of course, until Ashford Hale comes into his life.
August 2024
Two weeks after a car accident, Ford wakes up from a medically induced coma with no memory of the past two years. A fractured elbow, some bruising, but nothing else seems out of the ordinary.
Except, his life is completely different now. His best friend Ash is right beside him when Ford wakes up, and there’s a new light in his eyes; a new softness in the way Ash holds Ford’s hand. Ford has so many questions, and his mind has very few answers.
How did he end up in a relationship with his best friend in 2024? Will the headache ever leave him alone? And who the hell is Winnie? What else has he forgotten?
Forgotten is the first novel in the Memory Loss Series, starring Ashley Bergman. This MM romance can be read as a standalone and the happy ending is guaranteed. Please refer to the content warnings for more information.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 14, 2026
4.5 ☆
Ooof, the amnesia trope always hits hard and this was no exception! This story breaks you and puts you back together, slowly. You're thrust into a situation already unfolding when the book starts, meaning that Ashford(Ford) is already in the hospital and trying to wake up after a huge accident. Ashley(Ash) is there with him and he's so patient, while also struggling with the whole situation and the fact that Ford doesn't remember the last two years.
The dual timeline was really great! I loved getting to see their roots and childhood from Ash's point of view and the present from Ford's. It was interesting to see him parse through everything and try to get back to 2024-Ford. I enjoyed the representation in the book, be that mental health, neglect, or other topics.
Whatever happened, Ash and Ford's relationship was beautiful and strong, years of friendship cementing their deep love, appreciation and care for each other. It was great to see them claw themselves back to their happily ever after.
Definitely check this out if you're a fan of the amnesia trope, especially of it's between two childhood best friends with a big dose of hurt/comfort.
Ooof, the amnesia trope always hits hard and this was no exception! This story breaks you and puts you back together, slowly. You're thrust into a situation already unfolding when the book starts, meaning that Ashford(Ford) is already in the hospital and trying to wake up after a huge accident. Ashley(Ash) is there with him and he's so patient, while also struggling with the whole situation and the fact that Ford doesn't remember the last two years.
The dual timeline was really great! I loved getting to see their roots and childhood from Ash's point of view and the present from Ford's. It was interesting to see him parse through everything and try to get back to 2024-Ford. I enjoyed the representation in the book, be that mental health, neglect, or other topics.
Whatever happened, Ash and Ford's relationship was beautiful and strong, years of friendship cementing their deep love, appreciation and care for each other. It was great to see them claw themselves back to their happily ever after.
Definitely check this out if you're a fan of the amnesia trope, especially of it's between two childhood best friends with a big dose of hurt/comfort.
June 1, 2026
This book has my favorite tropes: best friends to lovers, amnesia, hurt/comfort. But unfortunately, it didn't work out for me🙁
So, this is the story of Ashford and Ashley, aka Ford and Ash, who become best friend at 6 years old. The story goes through dual timeline. The then timeline starting at 6 years old and jumping every 2 years, and the now timeline where they are 28 years old. The now timeline starts with Ford in the hospital after an accident, suffering from amnesia and thinking he and Ash are still just best friends only to discover that's not the case at all.
I have few problems with this story. Some may contain spoilers so be aware.
‼️
‼️
‼️
‼️
-My biggest problem in this book is "Thanny."
You might wonder what "Thanny" means so I'm gonna tell you. Ash's boyfriend Jonathan goes by Thanny. so, that's what Ash calls him, "Thanny"🙄 So, wanna guess how many times my poor eyes had to read the word "Thanny"? 84 times people🤬 I tried to bleach my eyes and brain but "Thanny" is haunting me😩🫨
- Little too much OP drama in the past timeline, but no explicit scenes on page though.
So, Ash and Ford kiss at 14 to help Ash figure out if he likes boys.
Then at Ash 18th bday, Ash and a guy, whom he previously went on a date/kissed but didn't click then, kiss on page which kinda turn Ash on and he goes "all I want to do is kiss Ford the way James has just kissed me"🙄 and little while later, he and Ford kiss, just for the sake of kissing.
2 years later, Ford has a roommate and an almost girlfriend Vicky and she is their friend in the present timeline. Ash and Ford go to a pub and when they make it back to Ford's room, Ash goes "I sort of shagged your friend in the bathroom." Exciting🙄
2 years after that, Ash and Ford kiss again, just for the sake of kissing again.
2 years after that, Ash tells us that he spends that year picking up men, every evening a new one. Riveting🤢 Then he meets "insert drum roll'🥁🥁 the one and only "Thanny"😂 Thanny gets jealous from Ford and asks Ash to stop meeting with Ford and Ash stops talking to Ford for 2 years while being with the controlling douchbag Thanny
Ash and Ford bump into each other after those 2 years and Ash blames Ford for the non-contact😂
We figure out later that Ford had liked Ash for a log time.
- Thanny😑
- Ash referring to his father as 'daddy' throughout all his different age and even at 28 felt weird to me.
Then, suddenly Ash develops a daddy kink and starts calling Ford "daddy", which is even weirder😏
-Thanny😑
- In the then timeline, Ash had a very rocky relationship with his twin brothers for the way they treated him but in the present, they are on a very good terms. Did I miss something?🧐
- Thanny😑
-The way Ford got all his memories back right after proposing to Ashley felt ridiculous to me.
-Thanny😑
- The way the story is told felt like just narrating a sequence of events and there is no natural flow. So I couldn't connect to the story or the characters. I couldn't feel anything. I didn't honestly care. And I don't mind dual timelines at all, but here they didn't fit smoothly to me.
-Thanny😑
I'm not saying the book is bad. It might have been my mood, but I couldn't connect to the story at all. I couldn't feel their love or soulmatism. I could blame it on "Thanny." I was reading for the sake of reading but nothing triggered any sort of emotions inside me, well except for "Thanny"🤣
So, if you don't have a problem with "Thanny", then give this book a chance.
So, this is the story of Ashford and Ashley, aka Ford and Ash, who become best friend at 6 years old. The story goes through dual timeline. The then timeline starting at 6 years old and jumping every 2 years, and the now timeline where they are 28 years old. The now timeline starts with Ford in the hospital after an accident, suffering from amnesia and thinking he and Ash are still just best friends only to discover that's not the case at all.
I have few problems with this story. Some may contain spoilers so be aware.
‼️
‼️
‼️
‼️
-My biggest problem in this book is "Thanny."
You might wonder what "Thanny" means so I'm gonna tell you. Ash's boyfriend Jonathan goes by Thanny. so, that's what Ash calls him, "Thanny"🙄 So, wanna guess how many times my poor eyes had to read the word "Thanny"? 84 times people🤬 I tried to bleach my eyes and brain but "Thanny" is haunting me😩🫨
- Little too much OP drama in the past timeline, but no explicit scenes on page though.
So, Ash and Ford kiss at 14 to help Ash figure out if he likes boys.
Then at Ash 18th bday, Ash and a guy, whom he previously went on a date/kissed but didn't click then, kiss on page which kinda turn Ash on and he goes "all I want to do is kiss Ford the way James has just kissed me"🙄 and little while later, he and Ford kiss, just for the sake of kissing.
2 years later, Ford has a roommate and an almost girlfriend Vicky and she is their friend in the present timeline. Ash and Ford go to a pub and when they make it back to Ford's room, Ash goes "I sort of shagged your friend in the bathroom." Exciting🙄
2 years after that, Ash and Ford kiss again, just for the sake of kissing again.
2 years after that, Ash tells us that he spends that year picking up men, every evening a new one. Riveting🤢 Then he meets "insert drum roll'🥁🥁 the one and only "Thanny"😂 Thanny gets jealous from Ford and asks Ash to stop meeting with Ford and Ash stops talking to Ford for 2 years while being with the controlling douchbag Thanny
Ash and Ford bump into each other after those 2 years and Ash blames Ford for the non-contact😂
We figure out later that Ford had liked Ash for a log time.
- Thanny😑
- Ash referring to his father as 'daddy' throughout all his different age and even at 28 felt weird to me.
Then, suddenly Ash develops a daddy kink and starts calling Ford "daddy", which is even weirder😏
-Thanny😑
- In the then timeline, Ash had a very rocky relationship with his twin brothers for the way they treated him but in the present, they are on a very good terms. Did I miss something?🧐
- Thanny😑
-The way Ford got all his memories back right after proposing to Ashley felt ridiculous to me.
-Thanny😑
- The way the story is told felt like just narrating a sequence of events and there is no natural flow. So I couldn't connect to the story or the characters. I couldn't feel anything. I didn't honestly care. And I don't mind dual timelines at all, but here they didn't fit smoothly to me.
-Thanny😑
I'm not saying the book is bad. It might have been my mood, but I couldn't connect to the story at all. I couldn't feel their love or soulmatism. I could blame it on "Thanny." I was reading for the sake of reading but nothing triggered any sort of emotions inside me, well except for "Thanny"🤣
So, if you don't have a problem with "Thanny", then give this book a chance.
May 12, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2/5
Main characters: Ashley (Ash) & Ashford (Ford)
Side characters: Sydney, Darshi, Morgan, Preston, Vicky, Martin, Edwin, Erik
Page count: 347
First person, dual POV. Dual timelines.
Goodness, this book was so emotional. I devoured it. The way this book was written felt sort of fever dream-like. I think this helped us as readers to really feel Ford’s confusion throughout, as he’s trying to piece together everything about his life after the accident that isn’t making sense to him. This book really made me think about where love actually lives in our bodies. Is it solely dependent on our memories or does it go deeper than that? When we love someone that deeply does it live in our marrow and transcend our minds, or would we truly forget? Obviously Ash and Ford already loved each other as best friends, so Ford losing the last two years didn’t completely erase the deep foundation they had in their relationship. I think this was the most important factor in this story. They had already been through so much and meant so much to each other, there was a starting point to build off of even in the absence of Ford’s memories.
The way Lara developed the story and slowly peeled back layer after layer of what transpired was brilliant. We were along for the ride, right beside Ford, as things were unraveled and brought to clarity. I loved all the fun and quirky friends who were endlessly supportive and the complex family dynamics. I think Ford’s dad was the true hero for everyone in this story.
This was such a strong debut from Lara A. Springs. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2/5
Main characters: Ashley (Ash) & Ashford (Ford)
Side characters: Sydney, Darshi, Morgan, Preston, Vicky, Martin, Edwin, Erik
Page count: 347
First person, dual POV. Dual timelines.
Goodness, this book was so emotional. I devoured it. The way this book was written felt sort of fever dream-like. I think this helped us as readers to really feel Ford’s confusion throughout, as he’s trying to piece together everything about his life after the accident that isn’t making sense to him. This book really made me think about where love actually lives in our bodies. Is it solely dependent on our memories or does it go deeper than that? When we love someone that deeply does it live in our marrow and transcend our minds, or would we truly forget? Obviously Ash and Ford already loved each other as best friends, so Ford losing the last two years didn’t completely erase the deep foundation they had in their relationship. I think this was the most important factor in this story. They had already been through so much and meant so much to each other, there was a starting point to build off of even in the absence of Ford’s memories.
The way Lara developed the story and slowly peeled back layer after layer of what transpired was brilliant. We were along for the ride, right beside Ford, as things were unraveled and brought to clarity. I loved all the fun and quirky friends who were endlessly supportive and the complex family dynamics. I think Ford’s dad was the true hero for everyone in this story.
This was such a strong debut from Lara A. Springs. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a cute story, probably more of a 3.5 for me. I liked the concept of Ford and Ash's relationship being established when the amnesia comes in to play. A lot of times I feel like there's a misunderstanding around the amnesia that perpetuates the story and, with the relationship already being established, I feel like you don't get that here (which I like).
I did find the dual timeline to be a little much. My eyes haven't had a lot of time to read lately so I was grabbing a chapter here and a chapter there and couldn't necessarily sit down for long sprints of reading. I found myself having to reacquaint my brain with what had happened and what was actively happening in the story pretty much every time I picked it up. I think if you have time to commit to longer chunks of reading, you could avoid that pitfall.
Overall, I liked the story and it was a good debut. I don't read a ton of amnesia stories and I think I am coming to learn about myself that I may not love that as a plot device in most cases. I'm intrigued by the teaser of book two so I'll plan to give that a read and use it as a personal barometer on if I need to avoid amnesia stories going forward.
Thanks to Lara for an advanced copy.
I did find the dual timeline to be a little much. My eyes haven't had a lot of time to read lately so I was grabbing a chapter here and a chapter there and couldn't necessarily sit down for long sprints of reading. I found myself having to reacquaint my brain with what had happened and what was actively happening in the story pretty much every time I picked it up. I think if you have time to commit to longer chunks of reading, you could avoid that pitfall.
Overall, I liked the story and it was a good debut. I don't read a ton of amnesia stories and I think I am coming to learn about myself that I may not love that as a plot device in most cases. I'm intrigued by the teaser of book two so I'll plan to give that a read and use it as a personal barometer on if I need to avoid amnesia stories going forward.
Thanks to Lara for an advanced copy.
June 3, 2026
Arc Review
Wow This book was just so beautiful but also so heartbreaking this is Lara debut and let me tell you she did not disappoint.
Ashford (Ford) wakes up and thinks he’s in the year 2022. Oh my gosh how my heart broke. To wake up and not know what year it is and only remember that year. Until his best friend Ashley (Ash) is there. He remembers his best friend but he’s missing the biggest piece of his memory Ash is his partner.
Ash oh the sorrow I felt for him. To love his best friend for so long and to finally be with him for it to be erase due to a tragic accident. Though Ash is patient and kind he’s breaking. He’s raising their daughter (shocker) all alone dealing with the loss of his partners memory.
I love how we get glimpses of how ford and Ash met from childhood to adulthood. This story is beautifully written and my heart was healed by the end of this story. Even when you lose your memory love will always stay you just have to pick it back up.
Wow This book was just so beautiful but also so heartbreaking this is Lara debut and let me tell you she did not disappoint.
Ashford (Ford) wakes up and thinks he’s in the year 2022. Oh my gosh how my heart broke. To wake up and not know what year it is and only remember that year. Until his best friend Ashley (Ash) is there. He remembers his best friend but he’s missing the biggest piece of his memory Ash is his partner.
Ash oh the sorrow I felt for him. To love his best friend for so long and to finally be with him for it to be erase due to a tragic accident. Though Ash is patient and kind he’s breaking. He’s raising their daughter (shocker) all alone dealing with the loss of his partners memory.
I love how we get glimpses of how ford and Ash met from childhood to adulthood. This story is beautifully written and my heart was healed by the end of this story. Even when you lose your memory love will always stay you just have to pick it back up.
May 28, 2026
Such a fantastic debut novel! As soon as I saw the description of Forgotten, I knew I needed to read it. We have amnesia/memory loss, childhood best friends to lovers, a very clever and unique second chance, lifesaving found family, hurt/comfort, and true soulmates.
Ash and Ford meet at age six and become instant pals. This is where their journey begins. The moment Ash meets Ford, it’s like a light switch has finally been flipped on in a dark room. Ash grows up in an abusive, neglectful home with an angry father and too many siblings to ever feel important. Ford has a flighty mother and an amazing father who instantly takes Ash under his wing. Ford’s home quickly becomes an escape for him and a place where he feels not only welcome, but appreciated.
Forgotten is written with both MCs’ POVs and dual timelines. The way Lara A. Springs weaves it all together is so perfect! We get to see them becoming friends, finding true safety and security in their bond, then circling each other for decades as they grow in different directions, yet always finding their way back to one another. Then the accident happens, and Ford wakes up in the hospital to the same but…different Ash by his side and an entirely new life, having made some major life decisions during the previous two years that he has no recollection of.
I don’t want to give anything away, or rob anyone of the opportunity to have goosebumps hit them the way they did me, but I highly recommend this book! The sweetness is off the charts, but I would check the triggers, as some fairly heavy themes are explored! I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! It’s always so exciting when I find a new author to love!
Ash and Ford meet at age six and become instant pals. This is where their journey begins. The moment Ash meets Ford, it’s like a light switch has finally been flipped on in a dark room. Ash grows up in an abusive, neglectful home with an angry father and too many siblings to ever feel important. Ford has a flighty mother and an amazing father who instantly takes Ash under his wing. Ford’s home quickly becomes an escape for him and a place where he feels not only welcome, but appreciated.
Forgotten is written with both MCs’ POVs and dual timelines. The way Lara A. Springs weaves it all together is so perfect! We get to see them becoming friends, finding true safety and security in their bond, then circling each other for decades as they grow in different directions, yet always finding their way back to one another. Then the accident happens, and Ford wakes up in the hospital to the same but…different Ash by his side and an entirely new life, having made some major life decisions during the previous two years that he has no recollection of.
I don’t want to give anything away, or rob anyone of the opportunity to have goosebumps hit them the way they did me, but I highly recommend this book! The sweetness is off the charts, but I would check the triggers, as some fairly heavy themes are explored! I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! It’s always so exciting when I find a new author to love!
May 13, 2026
Best friends to lovers to strangers to everything
Wow this story was beautiful and brutal in equal parts. I actually enjoyed the dual times lines that allowed you to see how they started and how they ended up where they were.
Opening this story with amnesia and so many variables was a gamble that paid off because of how this story was written. I can't even imagine how hard this would have been. Losing two years and wondering why your best friend whom you had barely been speaking to was by your side when you woke up.
The little glimpses into a life he always wanted but not understanding how they finally got there pulled on alk the heartstrings. When he got released and they went home was so hard.
I loved the things that were remembered like muscle memory even when he wasn't sure how or why he was doing something. Specifically braiding Winnie's hair. This moment was so tender and sweet and then finding out kind of how that all came about later was so sweet.
Ashley and Ashford were always meant to be. From friends, to best friends, to lovers to everything. I was never a matter of if but always vs matter of when.
This book Hits you in all the feels. From the joy and sorrow to the hurt and love you see them all so clearly. I really enjoyed the way this book was written and didn't make the amnesia the while plot line. It was more if the silent stalker trying to ruin their lives. The story is about finding friendships and love in the boy who decided you couldn't both be Ash so he would be Ford. In finding a daughter who was meant to be.
Ashley, Ashford, and Ashwin. Together in love even when the journey was lost the love remained.
Wow this story was beautiful and brutal in equal parts. I actually enjoyed the dual times lines that allowed you to see how they started and how they ended up where they were.
Opening this story with amnesia and so many variables was a gamble that paid off because of how this story was written. I can't even imagine how hard this would have been. Losing two years and wondering why your best friend whom you had barely been speaking to was by your side when you woke up.
The little glimpses into a life he always wanted but not understanding how they finally got there pulled on alk the heartstrings. When he got released and they went home was so hard.
I loved the things that were remembered like muscle memory even when he wasn't sure how or why he was doing something. Specifically braiding Winnie's hair. This moment was so tender and sweet and then finding out kind of how that all came about later was so sweet.
Ashley and Ashford were always meant to be. From friends, to best friends, to lovers to everything. I was never a matter of if but always vs matter of when.
This book Hits you in all the feels. From the joy and sorrow to the hurt and love you see them all so clearly. I really enjoyed the way this book was written and didn't make the amnesia the while plot line. It was more if the silent stalker trying to ruin their lives. The story is about finding friendships and love in the boy who decided you couldn't both be Ash so he would be Ford. In finding a daughter who was meant to be.
Ashley, Ashford, and Ashwin. Together in love even when the journey was lost the love remained.
May 13, 2026
4.25⭐ rounded up because this story was so unique and quietly beautiful it still lingers with me 💜
“I got to witness my son meet his soulmate when he was seven years old…”
Yeah okay Greg Hale actually got me with that one 😭
I was so excited to receive an ARC of Forgotten, especially for Lara A. Springs’ debut novel, and I ended up flying through this. Watching Ford wake up remembering Ash as his best friend but not the life and love they built together had this constant ache running underneath the whole story. Even through the memory loss and confusion, Ash and Ford still felt so inevitable to me in this really soft, steady way.
I absolutely loved the dual POV and dual timeline structure. Getting Ford in the present while slowly unraveling years of history with Ash made every little moment hit harder. And 2020 Ash??? Yeah no, emotionally I was going THROUGH IT. There was something really intimate about slowly piecing together all the moments that shaped them into each other’s person.
Also the found family elements in this really worked for me. Seeing Ash be loved and cared for the way he deserved honestly hit me just as hard as the romance at times.
Overall this was such a strong debut and I’m already excited to see where Lara takes this series next 💜
“I got to witness my son meet his soulmate when he was seven years old…”
Yeah okay Greg Hale actually got me with that one 😭
I was so excited to receive an ARC of Forgotten, especially for Lara A. Springs’ debut novel, and I ended up flying through this. Watching Ford wake up remembering Ash as his best friend but not the life and love they built together had this constant ache running underneath the whole story. Even through the memory loss and confusion, Ash and Ford still felt so inevitable to me in this really soft, steady way.
I absolutely loved the dual POV and dual timeline structure. Getting Ford in the present while slowly unraveling years of history with Ash made every little moment hit harder. And 2020 Ash??? Yeah no, emotionally I was going THROUGH IT. There was something really intimate about slowly piecing together all the moments that shaped them into each other’s person.
Also the found family elements in this really worked for me. Seeing Ash be loved and cared for the way he deserved honestly hit me just as hard as the romance at times.
Overall this was such a strong debut and I’m already excited to see where Lara takes this series next 💜
May 13, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ This was a fantastic debut. The prose was great, the emotions were felt, I was locked in to the story. The dual timeline did kind of lose me after a while; after Ash and Ford’s history and relationship was established I didn’t think continuing in the past added much to the overall conflict. I feel Ash’s pov might have had more emotional impact if it switched to the present sooner, showing how much he was struggling with Ford’s amnesia at the time it was relevant, rather than a rushed version right at the end. By the time I got Ash’s version of current events, Ford was getting his memories back and there was no more danger of them losing everything.
Everything else was fantastic. This author is definitely one to watch. If this is her debut, I can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
Everything else was fantastic. This author is definitely one to watch. If this is her debut, I can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
May 24, 2026
great debut
This was a well done debut novel. I’m not usually a fan of dual timelines, but this really worked. It was interesting to see the timelines eventually meet and some of the pieces come together.
I did find the style of writing unique. I think perhaps it was the British-isms. Or maybe the author speaks/writes multiple languages? Some of the sentences felt a little different? Not bad - just different.
Overall I did really enjoy this story and will read more from this author. Definetly worth a read!
This was a well done debut novel. I’m not usually a fan of dual timelines, but this really worked. It was interesting to see the timelines eventually meet and some of the pieces come together.
I did find the style of writing unique. I think perhaps it was the British-isms. Or maybe the author speaks/writes multiple languages? Some of the sentences felt a little different? Not bad - just different.
Overall I did really enjoy this story and will read more from this author. Definetly worth a read!
May 12, 2026
This story was completely captivating from the start Ash/Ford have been friends basically their entire lives. Through family trauma to relationships good and bad and then finally becoming a couple they have had endless love for each other. Always each other's person no matter what.
Then a horrible car accident happens and Ford wakes up thinking it is 2022 and does not remember falling in love with Ash.
This story will have you in your feels for sure, it is raw and beautiful going through all the years leading up to the car accident and the aftermath as Ford tries to find his way into falling completely in love with is best friend again.
Then a horrible car accident happens and Ford wakes up thinking it is 2022 and does not remember falling in love with Ash.
This story will have you in your feels for sure, it is raw and beautiful going through all the years leading up to the car accident and the aftermath as Ford tries to find his way into falling completely in love with is best friend again.
May 1, 2026
I love how in this book you get dual POVs, but in different timelines. Everyone Ford has his sense of “Deja vu” and his reactions on page was like I felt it too.
Horngry is definitely a word. Or, it needs to be.
I love the found family in this book. Not just the main characters finding it in each other, it each finding their own friends to make their own family. The support they get throughout the ordeals in their life. It’s such a good representation of how we can feel all alone and isolated because we don’t want to be a burden, but then asking for help and receiving it with love can be everything.
Ash and Ford were so cute to read about. I love the friends to lovers. And how, even with the memory loss Ford is not panicked. Instead he realizes how right it is. It’s such a good read if you are looking for friends to lovers, comfort, found family, coming of age vibes.
Horngry is definitely a word. Or, it needs to be.
I love the found family in this book. Not just the main characters finding it in each other, it each finding their own friends to make their own family. The support they get throughout the ordeals in their life. It’s such a good representation of how we can feel all alone and isolated because we don’t want to be a burden, but then asking for help and receiving it with love can be everything.
Ash and Ford were so cute to read about. I love the friends to lovers. And how, even with the memory loss Ford is not panicked. Instead he realizes how right it is. It’s such a good read if you are looking for friends to lovers, comfort, found family, coming of age vibes.
May 3, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Ashley and Ashford! There is something I love so much about childhood friends to lovers. The way Lara Springs represented their lifelong friendship through snippets was so special. Watching them grow, not only as individuals, but together as friends was very rewarding.
I think Lara Springs did a great job maneuvering through some really tricky subjects. Such as manipulative relationships, parental abuse, divorce, mental health. Being a human is hard and the fact that Ash and Ford always had each other to rely on was beautiful. And when they felt like they were losing each other and themselves that’s when they finally took a look in the mirror! Up until that point it was very will they, won’t they.
I’m very intrigued in the future of this world, I know this is the first book in the series and I can’t wait to see what else comes from the lovely mind of Lara Springs! 💖
Ashley and Ashford! There is something I love so much about childhood friends to lovers. The way Lara Springs represented their lifelong friendship through snippets was so special. Watching them grow, not only as individuals, but together as friends was very rewarding.
I think Lara Springs did a great job maneuvering through some really tricky subjects. Such as manipulative relationships, parental abuse, divorce, mental health. Being a human is hard and the fact that Ash and Ford always had each other to rely on was beautiful. And when they felt like they were losing each other and themselves that’s when they finally took a look in the mirror! Up until that point it was very will they, won’t they.
I’m very intrigued in the future of this world, I know this is the first book in the series and I can’t wait to see what else comes from the lovely mind of Lara Springs! 💖
May 13, 2026
ARC Review ✨️
Forgotten
By Lara S Springs
"You two are two peas in a pod."
3.5/5⭐️
1/5 🌶
Tropes/kinks
🤍Best Friends to Lovers
🧡Memory Loss
🤍Second Chances
🧡Found Family
🤍Second Chances
🧡Forced Proximity
🤍Hurt/Comfort
🧡Dual Timeline
🤍Dual POV
Character/cover art: @isabel._.smithh
Oh this was an absolute heart breaker in the best way. Being inside Ford's mind and not knowing what the next big reveal was... wow. So stressful and I was on the edge of my seat. I loved the way the dual timeline and dual POV was layed out. This book was sweet and I enjoyed the story of Ash & Ford.
I am not going to lie the first chapter really struck a nerve for me. In a beautifully, haunting, traumatic way. I had a family member in a medically induced coma at the beginning of her 6 month fight and I truly hope that she was able to hear us. I was so entaptured. This was so beautifully done from Ford's perspective. It gave me a lot of comfort and hope this was my aunt's perspective. Hope she could hear us 🫶🏽
My biggest draw backs were the writing style. I felt like I was being told events and not experiencing them with the characters. I felt a lot of conversations and actions were closed door, and most of the book was internal struggles and monologue with the character in that POV.
Some may really like the writing style, so please try it for yourself!
Forgotten
By Lara S Springs
"You two are two peas in a pod."
3.5/5⭐️
1/5 🌶
Tropes/kinks
🤍Best Friends to Lovers
🧡Memory Loss
🤍Second Chances
🧡Found Family
🤍Second Chances
🧡Forced Proximity
🤍Hurt/Comfort
🧡Dual Timeline
🤍Dual POV
Character/cover art: @isabel._.smithh
Oh this was an absolute heart breaker in the best way. Being inside Ford's mind and not knowing what the next big reveal was... wow. So stressful and I was on the edge of my seat. I loved the way the dual timeline and dual POV was layed out. This book was sweet and I enjoyed the story of Ash & Ford.
I am not going to lie the first chapter really struck a nerve for me. In a beautifully, haunting, traumatic way. I had a family member in a medically induced coma at the beginning of her 6 month fight and I truly hope that she was able to hear us. I was so entaptured. This was so beautifully done from Ford's perspective. It gave me a lot of comfort and hope this was my aunt's perspective. Hope she could hear us 🫶🏽
My biggest draw backs were the writing style. I felt like I was being told events and not experiencing them with the characters. I felt a lot of conversations and actions were closed door, and most of the book was internal struggles and monologue with the character in that POV.
Some may really like the writing style, so please try it for yourself!
won-t-read-bc-nopes
June 2, 2026Another to avoid for me. Thanks to @Sarah for laying it out w details I need to know to decide:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Too much OP stuff all along. And the whole Thanny thing...just...NO.
Beautiful cover though! I'd love to go on that bike ride! If you enjoy OP dating/action for angst while MCs are pining (I'm looking at you, @Evelyn!) this might be a good one for you to try. Hey, new author! 😀❤️
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Too much OP stuff all along. And the whole Thanny thing...just...NO.
Beautiful cover though! I'd love to go on that bike ride! If you enjoy OP dating/action for angst while MCs are pining (I'm looking at you, @Evelyn!) this might be a good one for you to try. Hey, new author! 😀❤️
May 20, 2026
Forgotten by Lara A. Springs
Memory Loss series, Book 1
Length: 347 pages
Source: Author-direct
Publication date: May 10, 2026
5 ⭐
3 🌶️
WHAT TO EXPECT
MM contemporary
Best friends to lovers
Second chance
Amnesia/memory loss
Hurt/comfort
Family/found family
Soulmates
AUTHOR'S BLURB
Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford) have been best friends forever.
January 2002
When Ash meets Ford, he is six years old. His mom is too busy taking care of his younger brothers, his dad is too angry. There’s nobody in the world who will care about Ash, nobody who will love him for who he really is. That is, of course, until Ashford Hale comes into his life.
August 2024
Two weeks after a car accident, Ford wakes up from a medically induced coma with no memory of the past two years. A fractured elbow, some bruising, but nothing else seems out of the ordinary. Except, his life is completely different now. His best friend Ash is right beside him when Ford wakes up, and there’s a new light in his eyes; a new softness in the way Ash holds Ford’s hand. Ford has so many questions, and his mind has very few answers. How did he end up in a relationship with his best friend in 2024? Will the headache ever leave him alone? And who the hell is Winnie?
What else has he forgotten?
Forgotten is the first novel in the Memory Loss Series, starring Ashley Bergman. This MM romance can be read as a standalone and the happy ending is guaranteed. Please refer to the content warnings for more information.
MY THOUGHTS
Immediate reaction: this is a debut? I've been really spoiled with new authors lately!
Second reaction: I'm in love with Ash and Ford. Talk about relationship goals.
Forgotten is incredibly achy and romantic. The dual timeline to show us how Ford lost his memory and how they became a couple is chef’s kiss. Their love story is handled beautifully, and the writing is just... so many perfect moments of yearning, sadness, happiness, and regret that I felt in my own chest while reading.
I love seeing Ford realize that, even if he never gets a single memory back, he's absolutely in love with his partner, and ultimately, he doesn't need any of those memories to know that. And Ash's childhood is so dismal, it will 100% leave you in your feelings. But getting to see him find Ford (and his dad, Gregory) will reaffirm your belief in good people. These two men absolutely are meant to be together.
BOTTOM LINE
Yes, yes, yes! I am SO excited to have found this new author, and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
CONTENT WARNINGS
See the list at the beginning of the book for a complete list, including anxiety, panic attacks, explicit sexual content, suicidal ideation and self-harm, parental abuse, and disordered eating
–A🩷
Thanks to Lara A. Springs for an eARC of this book. All opinions are mine. Reviews posted regularly on StoryGraph, Goodreads, Amazon, Instagram, BlueSky, BookBub, and Fable.
Memory Loss series, Book 1
Length: 347 pages
Source: Author-direct
Publication date: May 10, 2026
5 ⭐
3 🌶️
WHAT TO EXPECT
MM contemporary
Best friends to lovers
Second chance
Amnesia/memory loss
Hurt/comfort
Family/found family
Soulmates
AUTHOR'S BLURB
Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford) have been best friends forever.
January 2002
When Ash meets Ford, he is six years old. His mom is too busy taking care of his younger brothers, his dad is too angry. There’s nobody in the world who will care about Ash, nobody who will love him for who he really is. That is, of course, until Ashford Hale comes into his life.
August 2024
Two weeks after a car accident, Ford wakes up from a medically induced coma with no memory of the past two years. A fractured elbow, some bruising, but nothing else seems out of the ordinary. Except, his life is completely different now. His best friend Ash is right beside him when Ford wakes up, and there’s a new light in his eyes; a new softness in the way Ash holds Ford’s hand. Ford has so many questions, and his mind has very few answers. How did he end up in a relationship with his best friend in 2024? Will the headache ever leave him alone? And who the hell is Winnie?
What else has he forgotten?
Forgotten is the first novel in the Memory Loss Series, starring Ashley Bergman. This MM romance can be read as a standalone and the happy ending is guaranteed. Please refer to the content warnings for more information.
MY THOUGHTS
Immediate reaction: this is a debut? I've been really spoiled with new authors lately!
Second reaction: I'm in love with Ash and Ford. Talk about relationship goals.
Forgotten is incredibly achy and romantic. The dual timeline to show us how Ford lost his memory and how they became a couple is chef’s kiss. Their love story is handled beautifully, and the writing is just... so many perfect moments of yearning, sadness, happiness, and regret that I felt in my own chest while reading.
I love seeing Ford realize that, even if he never gets a single memory back, he's absolutely in love with his partner, and ultimately, he doesn't need any of those memories to know that. And Ash's childhood is so dismal, it will 100% leave you in your feelings. But getting to see him find Ford (and his dad, Gregory) will reaffirm your belief in good people. These two men absolutely are meant to be together.
BOTTOM LINE
Yes, yes, yes! I am SO excited to have found this new author, and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
CONTENT WARNINGS
See the list at the beginning of the book for a complete list, including anxiety, panic attacks, explicit sexual content, suicidal ideation and self-harm, parental abuse, and disordered eating
–A🩷
Thanks to Lara A. Springs for an eARC of this book. All opinions are mine. Reviews posted regularly on StoryGraph, Goodreads, Amazon, Instagram, BlueSky, BookBub, and Fable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I was gifted an ARC of this book**
Longtime best friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and I absolutely loved Ash and Ford’s story. The amnesia trope can sometimes be frustrating to read, but I thought the choice to use dual POVs and dual timelines made this story feel really unique and engaging.
Ash and Ford’s relationship was incredibly sweet, even when things got messy before finally coming full circle. Then the car accident happens, and Ford forgets the last two years of his life—including his romantic relationship with Ash—which made the story even more emotional and compelling. While reading the present-day timeline, my heart absolutely ached for Ash. After pining for his best friend for so long, finally getting to be with him, and then essentially losing him all over again? Brutal in the best way.
Ford was definitely the more frustrating character at times because it took him so long to realize what was right in front of him. He clearly loved Ash long before he fully understood it himself, and watching him slowly come to that realization was both emotional and satisfying. I also loved Vicky—she was such a standout side character, and her blunt honesty brought some much-needed sense and humor to the story.
The found family aspect and supporting cast really added so much depth to the book. They made the world feel lived in and layered while also balancing out all the yearning and angst with lighter, funny moments. I really enjoyed the dual timelines showing both the present-day fallout and all the moments leading up to it. These two truly went through it on their journey to loving each other, and then again after the accident when Ford had to rediscover both himself and his relationship with Ash.
The way everything was woven together by the end to reveal the full picture felt really special and made the storytelling stand out for me. Ash and Ford were absolutely soulmate material.
If you love best friends-to-lovers, amnesia tropes, lots of yearning and pining, emotional angst, and found family dynamics, I definitely recommend this one.
Longtime best friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and I absolutely loved Ash and Ford’s story. The amnesia trope can sometimes be frustrating to read, but I thought the choice to use dual POVs and dual timelines made this story feel really unique and engaging.
Ash and Ford’s relationship was incredibly sweet, even when things got messy before finally coming full circle. Then the car accident happens, and Ford forgets the last two years of his life—including his romantic relationship with Ash—which made the story even more emotional and compelling. While reading the present-day timeline, my heart absolutely ached for Ash. After pining for his best friend for so long, finally getting to be with him, and then essentially losing him all over again? Brutal in the best way.
Ford was definitely the more frustrating character at times because it took him so long to realize what was right in front of him. He clearly loved Ash long before he fully understood it himself, and watching him slowly come to that realization was both emotional and satisfying. I also loved Vicky—she was such a standout side character, and her blunt honesty brought some much-needed sense and humor to the story.
The found family aspect and supporting cast really added so much depth to the book. They made the world feel lived in and layered while also balancing out all the yearning and angst with lighter, funny moments. I really enjoyed the dual timelines showing both the present-day fallout and all the moments leading up to it. These two truly went through it on their journey to loving each other, and then again after the accident when Ford had to rediscover both himself and his relationship with Ash.
The way everything was woven together by the end to reveal the full picture felt really special and made the storytelling stand out for me. Ash and Ford were absolutely soulmate material.
If you love best friends-to-lovers, amnesia tropes, lots of yearning and pining, emotional angst, and found family dynamics, I definitely recommend this one.
May 12, 2026
arc review:
Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and boy, did Lara deliver.
Did it have me aching for Ash? Yes! Did I want to smack Ford sometimes? Also yes. (It’s not my fault, I just really love Ash!) This book truly explores the depth of how much these two genuinely care for each other, and how with a foundation as strong as theirs, you’ll always find your way back.
Lara took such a unique approach with the dual first-person POVs and timeline jumps. It had me devouring pages just to see what would happen next. I was actually nervous to start this because I knew it was going to hurt and it did, in the very best way.
Ford is the kind of man you dream of. His sweet devotion in every role he played totally snuck up on me. Their love was so palpable, even in the heartbreak after the accident. It went beyond those missing years; it was in all those moments growing up together and being there for each other through family trauma that you recognized a bond that can’t truly be broken.
Then there's Ash, my sweet, strong man. He pined for Ford for years, and just when they’re finally settled and have something beautiful, it gets ripped away. Not only does he have to support his best friend and the love of his life, but he has to do it while holding back his own broken heart. Ash overcame so much in this story, and he deserved every ounce of love he got in the end. These two earned their happy ending in the most breathtaking way.
The amnesia trope can be tricky, but the dual POVs and timelines allowed the story to build while slowly unraveling the missing pieces. It was done so well,I can’t believe this is a debut! You’ve got yourself a fan, Lara. I can’t wait for what’s next.
In short… BUY THE BOOK!
Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and boy, did Lara deliver.
Did it have me aching for Ash? Yes! Did I want to smack Ford sometimes? Also yes. (It’s not my fault, I just really love Ash!) This book truly explores the depth of how much these two genuinely care for each other, and how with a foundation as strong as theirs, you’ll always find your way back.
Lara took such a unique approach with the dual first-person POVs and timeline jumps. It had me devouring pages just to see what would happen next. I was actually nervous to start this because I knew it was going to hurt and it did, in the very best way.
Ford is the kind of man you dream of. His sweet devotion in every role he played totally snuck up on me. Their love was so palpable, even in the heartbreak after the accident. It went beyond those missing years; it was in all those moments growing up together and being there for each other through family trauma that you recognized a bond that can’t truly be broken.
Then there's Ash, my sweet, strong man. He pined for Ford for years, and just when they’re finally settled and have something beautiful, it gets ripped away. Not only does he have to support his best friend and the love of his life, but he has to do it while holding back his own broken heart. Ash overcame so much in this story, and he deserved every ounce of love he got in the end. These two earned their happy ending in the most breathtaking way.
The amnesia trope can be tricky, but the dual POVs and timelines allowed the story to build while slowly unraveling the missing pieces. It was done so well,I can’t believe this is a debut! You’ve got yourself a fan, Lara. I can’t wait for what’s next.
In short… BUY THE BOOK!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"You seem to have forgotten something very important alongside, you know, everything else. I'd do anything for you, Ashford..."
I really loved this one. Amnesia tropes aren’t usually my thing, but this completely pulled me in and made stepping outside my comfort zone so worth it.
We follow Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford), yes, the names are a lot, but Ford fixes that problem for us(haha). Their connection starts immediately. They started with roller skates and bikes, building a deep friendship that eventually became something more. The story unfolds through flashbacks after Ford loses his memory, slowly revealing the evolution of their bond from friendship to love. We follow them over the course of YEARS, learning how close they became. Reading Ford grapple with everything he’s lost and all the life-altering truths he can’t remember makes this so emotional. And my baby Ash... I wanted to wrap him up and protect him more times than I can count. Just when you think he’s been through enough, life piles on even more...
There’s so much emotional weight as both of them try to navigate what their relationship looks like now, not only as a couple but as parents. Ford’s journey, in particular, figuring out who he is without his memories and learning to accept that version of himself, is beautifully done.
The side characters and found family element really made it all come together. Ash finally gets the support he deserves, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see. Almost everyone is lovable, and even a few characters you might want to mace lol.
Overall, once I started, I couldn’t put it down.
I really loved this one. Amnesia tropes aren’t usually my thing, but this completely pulled me in and made stepping outside my comfort zone so worth it.
We follow Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford), yes, the names are a lot, but Ford fixes that problem for us(haha). Their connection starts immediately. They started with roller skates and bikes, building a deep friendship that eventually became something more. The story unfolds through flashbacks after Ford loses his memory, slowly revealing the evolution of their bond from friendship to love. We follow them over the course of YEARS, learning how close they became. Reading Ford grapple with everything he’s lost and all the life-altering truths he can’t remember makes this so emotional. And my baby Ash... I wanted to wrap him up and protect him more times than I can count. Just when you think he’s been through enough, life piles on even more...
There’s so much emotional weight as both of them try to navigate what their relationship looks like now, not only as a couple but as parents. Ford’s journey, in particular, figuring out who he is without his memories and learning to accept that version of himself, is beautifully done.
The side characters and found family element really made it all come together. Ash finally gets the support he deserves, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see. Almost everyone is lovable, and even a few characters you might want to mace lol.
Overall, once I started, I couldn’t put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books find you at the right moment. Forgotten didn't just find me — it wrecked me completely, then put me back together.
Ashley and Ashford. Ash and Ford. From the very first scene — Ford in a hospital bed, his memories scattered by retrograde amnesia — I was theirs. I felt everything they felt, every loss and every tentative reach toward each other, right up to the very last page.
Ash broke my heart in ways I wasn't prepared for. The way his family treats him is genuinely devastating. I wanted to reach through the pages, take him somewhere safe, and shield him from every cruelty he was made to endure. He loves so honestly, so selflessly — it's almost unbearable to watch.
And Ford. Ford is the greenest flag ever written. As a friend, as a boyfriend, as a partner — he is the kind of person you didn't know you were missing until you met him on a page. His dedication, even as his memories slip away, is the kind of love that earns its happy ending.
Then there's Winnie. My sweet baby girl. I love her to pieces.
The non-linear structure — past and present weaving in and out — is something I usually resist. But this book needs it. It would have been a lesser story told any other way. Lara Springs handles it with such precision that I never once felt lost, only more deeply in.
A whole box of tissues. Actual tears. That hasn't happened to me in a very long time.
Forgotten is a story about family, friendship, heartbreak, and the kind of love that refuses to be forgotten — even when memory fails. It will live with me for a long time.
Ashley and Ashford. Ash and Ford. From the very first scene — Ford in a hospital bed, his memories scattered by retrograde amnesia — I was theirs. I felt everything they felt, every loss and every tentative reach toward each other, right up to the very last page.
Ash broke my heart in ways I wasn't prepared for. The way his family treats him is genuinely devastating. I wanted to reach through the pages, take him somewhere safe, and shield him from every cruelty he was made to endure. He loves so honestly, so selflessly — it's almost unbearable to watch.
And Ford. Ford is the greenest flag ever written. As a friend, as a boyfriend, as a partner — he is the kind of person you didn't know you were missing until you met him on a page. His dedication, even as his memories slip away, is the kind of love that earns its happy ending.
Then there's Winnie. My sweet baby girl. I love her to pieces.
The non-linear structure — past and present weaving in and out — is something I usually resist. But this book needs it. It would have been a lesser story told any other way. Lara Springs handles it with such precision that I never once felt lost, only more deeply in.
A whole box of tissues. Actual tears. That hasn't happened to me in a very long time.
Forgotten is a story about family, friendship, heartbreak, and the kind of love that refuses to be forgotten — even when memory fails. It will live with me for a long time.
May 11, 2026
Ashley and Ashford's story is one forged in friendship, a love story that truly defies all odds, one that's beyond beautiful.
When I first started reading this book the back and forth time jumps were confusing at first, but as I continued reading this story and as I adjusted to the writing, i ended up really enjoying it! The time jumps really helped build up Ash and Ford's backstory as well as providing context to some of the memories Ford remembered and also those he forgot.
I thought this book was unconventional but absolutely beautiful! Often times when there are time jumps or when a MC has amnesia the writing doesn't flow as well or maybe that's just because those two elements aren't something I often read myself. Regardless! That was not the case here with this book, this was absolutely brilliant and very well written! As I mentioned above, once I was able to get into the writing style/story, I really ended up loving this book.
I found it really monumental that through everything Ash and Ford went through that their love still persevered. Sure, it wasn't easy or pretty at times, Ford lost two years worth of memories, of course he was going to feel a certain type of way about it. But! Once he actually let himself feel his feelings and took a moment to realize that even if he didn't get back those exact memories, he could still make plenty of new ones with those he loved most. And that moment was monumental and I loved reading about these two finding their way together.
When I first started reading this book the back and forth time jumps were confusing at first, but as I continued reading this story and as I adjusted to the writing, i ended up really enjoying it! The time jumps really helped build up Ash and Ford's backstory as well as providing context to some of the memories Ford remembered and also those he forgot.
I thought this book was unconventional but absolutely beautiful! Often times when there are time jumps or when a MC has amnesia the writing doesn't flow as well or maybe that's just because those two elements aren't something I often read myself. Regardless! That was not the case here with this book, this was absolutely brilliant and very well written! As I mentioned above, once I was able to get into the writing style/story, I really ended up loving this book.
I found it really monumental that through everything Ash and Ford went through that their love still persevered. Sure, it wasn't easy or pretty at times, Ford lost two years worth of memories, of course he was going to feel a certain type of way about it. But! Once he actually let himself feel his feelings and took a moment to realize that even if he didn't get back those exact memories, he could still make plenty of new ones with those he loved most. And that moment was monumental and I loved reading about these two finding their way together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a gorgeous book. Childhood friends to friends to lovers to.....?
What do you do when an accident steals the last two years of your life and the best friend you remember is no longer just your friend but you partner?
I love how this was across multiple timelines so, as a reader, you not any experienced Ford's present, but also saw their relationship blossom throughout the years in Ash's eyes and what they meant to eachother. It made the story so powerful.
Also I love family, found family, friends and side characters that bring the story to life. It was so amazing to see that Ash and Ford had so many people in their lives who cared and wanted them to make it (I would love to see who we get to meet again in the future).
The recovery was also really well done. In books and movies we often just see the cliff notes glamorous recovery. In this the recovery was the story, it was hard, it wasn't linear. It showed the impact on everyone not just Ford as the one in recovery. It reminds us that getting better takes time and effort and we should be kind to ourselves.
Extra brownie points for the line: "We're a British family, after all. Swearing runs in our veins, just like tea, and all those stereotypes" - Truer words have never been spoke and as a Brit I will die on that hill.
Also for the inopportune trombone womp-fucking-womp-womp
For further context I highly recommend you read the book!
What do you do when an accident steals the last two years of your life and the best friend you remember is no longer just your friend but you partner?
I love how this was across multiple timelines so, as a reader, you not any experienced Ford's present, but also saw their relationship blossom throughout the years in Ash's eyes and what they meant to eachother. It made the story so powerful.
Also I love family, found family, friends and side characters that bring the story to life. It was so amazing to see that Ash and Ford had so many people in their lives who cared and wanted them to make it (I would love to see who we get to meet again in the future).
The recovery was also really well done. In books and movies we often just see the cliff notes glamorous recovery. In this the recovery was the story, it was hard, it wasn't linear. It showed the impact on everyone not just Ford as the one in recovery. It reminds us that getting better takes time and effort and we should be kind to ourselves.
Extra brownie points for the line: "We're a British family, after all. Swearing runs in our veins, just like tea, and all those stereotypes" - Truer words have never been spoke and as a Brit I will die on that hill.
Also for the inopportune trombone womp-fucking-womp-womp
For further context I highly recommend you read the book!
May 27, 2026
honestly i think i liked the idea of this one more than the reality of it. i struggled accepting the fact ford’s memory came back after proposing to ash, it just felt a little too cheesy/cliche for me. also, if ford had been in love with ash for years, why was it such a shock they were together, and how did he not know how to love ash as a boyfriend? maybe im just interpreting their love story wrong or differently, but i had a hard time with that.
i also struggled with ash calling his dad daddy for the whole book through every age, even in the present, then having a daddy kink out of nowhere. felt a little too ick for me.
i wish we saw more into ash’s dynamic with his family and his brothers and how they reconciled. hearing the way ash was treated by the twins as a child to them all of a sudden being besties felt weird. maybe it’s supposed to feel weird for the reader since all present actions are in fords perspective, but it still felt off. i wish we knew more about his falling out with his parents.
i also wanted to see more of ford’s struggle with his relationship with his mom. the resentment felt kinda off and it felt weird to me that his memories started to return after calling his mom. maybe this memory loss concept just isn’t for me.
i did really like seeing them both as dads and i liked winnie. all those soft moments were really sweet and made the story much more enjoyable.
i also struggled with ash calling his dad daddy for the whole book through every age, even in the present, then having a daddy kink out of nowhere. felt a little too ick for me.
i wish we saw more into ash’s dynamic with his family and his brothers and how they reconciled. hearing the way ash was treated by the twins as a child to them all of a sudden being besties felt weird. maybe it’s supposed to feel weird for the reader since all present actions are in fords perspective, but it still felt off. i wish we knew more about his falling out with his parents.
i also wanted to see more of ford’s struggle with his relationship with his mom. the resentment felt kinda off and it felt weird to me that his memories started to return after calling his mom. maybe this memory loss concept just isn’t for me.
i did really like seeing them both as dads and i liked winnie. all those soft moments were really sweet and made the story much more enjoyable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is 💯 a book you take your time with. While it isn’t long it’s emotionally rich and punches you inte sternum from the first page. It’s a dual POV dual timeline and it flows seamlessly, beautifully.
I loved experiencing this book, reading their lives from Ash’s pov when they were kids and Ford’s PoV now that they find themselves in circumstances that would test the best of men and these are… the best of men
Their connection is instinctive and unshakeable from the first time they meet and as the author weaves the threads of past and present into this story to bring to life how they became who they became, how they lost it and how they fight to regain it, I was taken aback by how deeply I felt for them, sadness hounded my reading and hurt but I could not pull away because Ash and Ford and their family and friends had a complete unshakeable hold on me
The representation in this book, found family, mental health not just for the amnesia but those dealing with the trauma of tragedy, neglect, borderline addiction is so well done.
This is a story of deep connection and friendship and what happens when you loose the tangible rational manifestation of it and have to trust yourself and the choices you have made
Amazing story! Can’t recommend it enough
I loved experiencing this book, reading their lives from Ash’s pov when they were kids and Ford’s PoV now that they find themselves in circumstances that would test the best of men and these are… the best of men
Their connection is instinctive and unshakeable from the first time they meet and as the author weaves the threads of past and present into this story to bring to life how they became who they became, how they lost it and how they fight to regain it, I was taken aback by how deeply I felt for them, sadness hounded my reading and hurt but I could not pull away because Ash and Ford and their family and friends had a complete unshakeable hold on me
The representation in this book, found family, mental health not just for the amnesia but those dealing with the trauma of tragedy, neglect, borderline addiction is so well done.
This is a story of deep connection and friendship and what happens when you loose the tangible rational manifestation of it and have to trust yourself and the choices you have made
Amazing story! Can’t recommend it enough
May 14, 2026
ARC READER REVIEW
"I am ten years old when Ashford Hale makes my heart skip a beat for the first time"
I want to start out by saying…. This is a phenomenal debut for Lara Springs. Forgotten was such a beautiful book of friendship, trauma, struggles and love. Truly unapologetic, deep, and unforgettable love. I have not read many books with an amnesia plot line, but I will say this has set new standards for any other going forward.
Childhood friends Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford) find themselves in a nearly fatal car accident and while they made it out alive, Ashford has lost his memory of the last 2 years of his life. Let’s just say…. a LOT can happen in two years…. Like your childhood best friend being your boyfriend… and you both having a child together.
Forgotten is the first book I have read that not only had a dual POV but dual timelines. I loved Ford’s perspective was in the present while Ash’s was in the past. With how the characters lined up it almost felt like we were gaining our memories back alongside Ford.
Ash and Ford’s story made me so emotional and warmed my heart at the same time. Forgotten has quickly earned a spot on my all time favorite reads.
"I am ten years old when Ashford Hale makes my heart skip a beat for the first time"
I want to start out by saying…. This is a phenomenal debut for Lara Springs. Forgotten was such a beautiful book of friendship, trauma, struggles and love. Truly unapologetic, deep, and unforgettable love. I have not read many books with an amnesia plot line, but I will say this has set new standards for any other going forward.
Childhood friends Ashley (Ash) and Ashford (Ford) find themselves in a nearly fatal car accident and while they made it out alive, Ashford has lost his memory of the last 2 years of his life. Let’s just say…. a LOT can happen in two years…. Like your childhood best friend being your boyfriend… and you both having a child together.
Forgotten is the first book I have read that not only had a dual POV but dual timelines. I loved Ford’s perspective was in the present while Ash’s was in the past. With how the characters lined up it almost felt like we were gaining our memories back alongside Ford.
Ash and Ford’s story made me so emotional and warmed my heart at the same time. Forgotten has quickly earned a spot on my all time favorite reads.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review (and thank you so much for the ARC)
This is such a sweet love story, kinda told in reverse. Ash and Ford have been friends since childhood, and together through a lot, they’ve had a lot of first together too. And then Ford wakes up after a horrible accident, finds out he has lost two years of his memories, oh and that he’s dating his best friends Ash actually. What follows is a love story told in duel timelines and POV. Ash tells you about the past, and Ford the present, until you get up to the accident and recovery.
These two finding each other again is so well plotted out and well done, their love is so apparent to everyone even if they can’t see it themselves at times. Ashs story breaks your heart a bit, but Ford is there for him, these two fight for their HEA in their own way and it was a joy to read.
This is such a sweet love story, kinda told in reverse. Ash and Ford have been friends since childhood, and together through a lot, they’ve had a lot of first together too. And then Ford wakes up after a horrible accident, finds out he has lost two years of his memories, oh and that he’s dating his best friends Ash actually. What follows is a love story told in duel timelines and POV. Ash tells you about the past, and Ford the present, until you get up to the accident and recovery.
These two finding each other again is so well plotted out and well done, their love is so apparent to everyone even if they can’t see it themselves at times. Ashs story breaks your heart a bit, but Ford is there for him, these two fight for their HEA in their own way and it was a joy to read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an amazing debut!! I just loved Ford and Ash so much.
I loved the timeline split because it felts like we truly to get to see the progression of their friendship to relationship! Amnesia tropes are hard to read but in the very best way, especially with a timeline split. You get to meet these characters and see the pre amnesia and then you hurt along side them as they work their way to their HEA. I could not imagine going through what they go through. Ford and Ash were just so sweet to read. They work so hard to get their HEA and when it happens, oh how I cried! It was just so special to read. Add in Winnie and just 🥺🥺🥺🥺
I cannot wait to read everything else that Lara writes in the future 🤍
I loved the timeline split because it felts like we truly to get to see the progression of their friendship to relationship! Amnesia tropes are hard to read but in the very best way, especially with a timeline split. You get to meet these characters and see the pre amnesia and then you hurt along side them as they work their way to their HEA. I could not imagine going through what they go through. Ford and Ash were just so sweet to read. They work so hard to get their HEA and when it happens, oh how I cried! It was just so special to read. Add in Winnie and just 🥺🥺🥺🥺
I cannot wait to read everything else that Lara writes in the future 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved getting to know Ash and Ford.
And Winnie, of course <3
This is my first time reading a memory loss book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Dual timelines aren't usually my favourite, but I actually liked how it was done here; we got Ford's POV in the present and Ash’s POV starting when they were children. It was lovely to see how their bond evolved from them being kids to young adults, then how it reformed again in the wake of Ford's amnesia.
The story really got me in the feels. To see Ford struggling to adapt to a life he has no recollection of, a child he doesn't remember, was heartbreaking. But it made all their little moments of reconnection so much more meaningful.
Can't wait for the next in the series :)
LK
And Winnie, of course <3
This is my first time reading a memory loss book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Dual timelines aren't usually my favourite, but I actually liked how it was done here; we got Ford's POV in the present and Ash’s POV starting when they were children. It was lovely to see how their bond evolved from them being kids to young adults, then how it reformed again in the wake of Ford's amnesia.
The story really got me in the feels. To see Ford struggling to adapt to a life he has no recollection of, a child he doesn't remember, was heartbreaking. But it made all their little moments of reconnection so much more meaningful.
Can't wait for the next in the series :)
LK
Review of advance copy received from Author
{4.5 stars}
This book made me feel so much in such a short period of time, I read it and felt like I was actually meeting these protagonists and getting to know them as people rather than characters. It felt like a gift to get to know them and I am so excited to get to know more of these characters throughout the rest of the series!
I liked that Ashley and Ashford were rounded up characters with flaws, insecurities and emotions that made me feels for them and this situation that they were thrown into. I loved their child and how I adored the ambiguity of how Ford reacted. I do believe that if anyone was thrown in a similar situation, it would be hard to wrap their head around a forgotten baby.
I wanted them to be happy on so many occasions and I do believe that the representations of mental health struggles were done very beautifully and respectfully.
{Arc}
See you in the next review!
Love <3
This book made me feel so much in such a short period of time, I read it and felt like I was actually meeting these protagonists and getting to know them as people rather than characters. It felt like a gift to get to know them and I am so excited to get to know more of these characters throughout the rest of the series!
I liked that Ashley and Ashford were rounded up characters with flaws, insecurities and emotions that made me feels for them and this situation that they were thrown into. I loved their child and how I adored the ambiguity of how Ford reacted. I do believe that if anyone was thrown in a similar situation, it would be hard to wrap their head around a forgotten baby.
I wanted them to be happy on so many occasions and I do believe that the representations of mental health struggles were done very beautifully and respectfully.
{Arc}
See you in the next review!
Love <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Copy received from author.
I was really looking forward to getting the chance to read this book as I love amnesia tropes.
Ashford wakes up in the hospital after an accident and can't recall the last few years. It's up to his best friend Ashley to remind him, and help him to remember.
Ashford's journey is filled with super sweet moments and some very emotional ones as well. I don't want to give anything away, but there are lots of surprises in store for Ashford.
Readers who enjoy memory loss, hurt\comfort, best friends to lovers and second chances will love this story.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful book.
I was really looking forward to getting the chance to read this book as I love amnesia tropes.
Ashford wakes up in the hospital after an accident and can't recall the last few years. It's up to his best friend Ashley to remind him, and help him to remember.
Ashford's journey is filled with super sweet moments and some very emotional ones as well. I don't want to give anything away, but there are lots of surprises in store for Ashford.
Readers who enjoy memory loss, hurt\comfort, best friends to lovers and second chances will love this story.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this wonderful book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews