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Love Blossoms in Oregon #1.5

Forget Me Not Lib/E

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Can a lost love be redeemed?Seven years ago, Julia McKenzie rejected the man she loved, wanting to experience more of life. Now, at the age of twenty-four, she regrets that decision. What will Seth think of her when they encounter one another hundreds of miles from home? Will the man she cared for understand the direction her life has taken and love her in spite of her choices?Pastor Seth Russell has never completely forgotten the girl he once courted. When she shows up in his new home of Baker City, all those feelings return. But why is she sneaking around town late at night? Even more important, will she reject him and break his heart again, or can God heal the breach between them?

Audio CD

First published March 18, 2014

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About the author

Miralee Ferrell

48 books278 followers
Miralee Ferrell and her husband, Allen, live on eleven acres in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where they love to garden, play with their dogs, take walks, and visit their grown children. She is also able to combine two other passions—horseback riding and spending time with her married daughter—since she lives nearby--and they often ride together on the wooded trails near their home.

Ironically, Miralee, now the author of over twenty books, with many more on the way, never had a burning desire to write—at least more than her own memoirs for her children. So she was shocked when God called her to start writing after she turned fifty. To Miralee, writing is a ministry that she hopes will impact hearts, and she anticipates how God will use each of her books to bless and change lives.




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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Wanda.
155 reviews40 followers
March 17, 2014
I said when I reviewed book two in this series, Wishing on Buttercups, that the books in this series got even better as they went along. That was true then, and still holds true now. Forget Me Not is a short novella but I can honestly say it is my favorite book in this series.

In this book we meet Julia McKenzie, a pastor's daughter from Omaha, who is no stranger to pastor Seth. If you have read either book one or book two, you know a little about Seth already. He played a larger part in Blowing on Dandelions and I often thought about what would happen to him in future books so I am glad he got his own story.

Just as each book deals with issues we often face in life and teaches Biblical lessons, so does Forget Me Not. It is full of lessons with a Scriptual viewpoint from judging others, forgiveness, prejudice to God's calling on each of our hearts in His ministry.

One of the major lessons is forgiveness. Julia struggled with forgiving people from her past which really tainted her view of most people, Christians in general. All of us have struggled with this issue at some time or other and I thought Miralee handled this with great Biblical insight. Although there are many parts of this book that I love the following quote from a conversation between Julia and Wilma Roberts has to be my favorite. They are discussing Julia's lack of ability to forgive and, Wilma who is quite outspoken, drives her point home beautifully when she told Beth that if you refuse to forgive, you tie God's hands.

The romance was taken up a notch in this book too, I think, which is perfect for me since I'm a romance reader at heart. Seth had always known his feelings for Julia, while Julia came to terms with her feelings slowly over the course of the story. It was enjoyable watching their relationship blossom. Another aspect in this book I loved was the addition of a little suspense. Not hanging-on-the-edge-of-your-seat suspense but just the right amount to keep you wondering. I also love revisiting the characters from the previous books such as, Wilma and Beth Roberts, Katherine and Micah Jacobs and Mrs. Cooper. These are the kind of characters that keep you coming back to a series and the friendly bickering between Mrs. Roberts and Mrs. Cooper will keep you laughing. They truly are a hoot. Overall, I loved it, and in my humble opinion, deem it the best of the series. You can read each of these books as stand alone stories but, really, why would you want to? Starting with book one will help you get acquainted with the characters that you will come to love so I suggest reading them in order and Forget Me Not, being an add in novella, can be read anywhere between books one and three but fits in best behind book one, Blowing on Dandelions. I highly recommend it to anyone that likes historical romance loaded with Biblical wisdom.

Disclaimer: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. The opinions expressed are mine alone. If I recommend a book it's simply because I love it. I received no monetary compensation for this review.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
1,189 reviews
March 5, 2014
Forget Me Not ( Love Blooms In Oregon Series )
By: Miralee Ferrell
Forget Me Not starts off in Baker City, Oregon in late spring 1881. Julia McKenzie
seven years ago ran away from Seth Russell. The man She thought she was to marry.
Julia was the daughter of a Pastor in Omaha and lived a sheltered life. She struggles with forgiving the people in her past. Julia lives in Baker City now and she has a mission to fulfill. Seth Russell is now the local Pastor in Baker City and had a hard time getting over Julia from his past.. Seth has accepted the fact that he will never marry. What will happen when he and Julia meet, will she recognize him ? You will love the characters in Forget Me Not. They are some of the same ones that was in the other two books. There is Wilma Roberts and Mrs. Cooper who will make you laugh the way they go on with each other. There is lots of love, trust, forgiveness, and also romance in Forget Me Not. I thought as I read each one of these books that they could not get any better. Well I believe I like this one the best. It is a short read, but a very good read and when you get started you can't wait to see what happens next.
I was given an Advance Reader copy for my honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah.
639 reviews56 followers
February 27, 2014
Seven years ago, Julia McKenzie experienced heartache and made a decision that would set the course of her future. Now, in Baker City, Oregon, she finds herself face-to-face with a man from her past, Seth Russell, who is a local pastor. She never regretted her choice or her singleness of purpose, but now she wonders if things could have been different. However, she never wavers from her clandestine mission of mercy. After all, “If she could make even one person’s life easier, it was worth whatever sacrifice she was called to make.” In spite of her conviction, she retains bitterness over the injustice that she has experienced and that she continues to see in the town and even in Seth’s church. As she struggles to carry out her purpose, she discovers that the beginning of change comes from within one’s own heart.

Despite the brevity of “Forget Me Not,” Miralee Ferrell creates a solid five-star novella that is both concise and far-reaching in its message of forgiveness and love. Characters from both “Blowing on Dandelions” and “Wishing on Buttercups” appear, so although this novella could easily stand alone, for the full effect and for the sake of familiarity, it is best read after one or both preceding novels in the Love Blossoms in Oregon series. Gentle romance combines seamlessly with the struggles of characters and a town coming to terms with their own prejudices and vocations. The author’s note appended to the narrative provides insight into the historical nature of the novella and how it came about, and in so doing demonstrates that the issues contained within the story are just as prominent today as they were in the 1880s, if not more so. The topics of mercy, compassion, forgiveness, and acceptance resonate strongly with contemporary readers, and the deep discussions within the pages of “Forget Me Not” speak to the heart of Christians and to those seeking faith and guidance, making this an inspiring and informative story that will remain with readers even after they have read the last page.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tonya.
1,126 reviews
March 20, 2014
Can a Lost Love be Redeemed?

Seven years ago, Julia McKenzie rejected the man she loved, wanting to experience more of life. Now, at the age of twenty-four, she regrets that decision. What will Seth think of her, when they encounter one another hundreds of miles from home? Will the man she cared for understand the direction her life has taken and love her in spite of her choices?

Pastor Seth Russell has never completely forgotten the girl he once courted. When she shows up in his new home of Baker City, all those feelings return. But why is she sneaking around town late at night? Even more important, will she reject him and break his heart again?

--That is the question isn't it? Julia becomes a really likeable character right away, she is very person's heroine, helping others less fortunate. All of our old favorite characters make an appearance, which you just love, but we learn a bit from some new ones, ones I hope continue to be in the series...

Julia and Seth were once an item, but Julia left abruptly and Seth was always wondering why. Will they recognize each other and rekindle the love? There are so many themes going on here, grace, mercy and forgiveness abound..

You will LOVE this book! This is the best one yet. Each book I believe stands alone but I think if you read them in order, you will love them that much more! Enjoy, I think it will be a blessing to you, much like it was to me!

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Britney.
768 reviews12 followers
August 13, 2016
Forget Me Not is a story that is as beautiful and unique as its namesake! This heartfelt novella is a wonderful addition to the Love Blossoms in Oregon series. While any of the books in the series can stand alone, I encourage you to read them in order. In doing so, you will come to know the residents of Baker City, Oregon, and understand their stories.

Miralee Ferrell is a master storyteller and has once again penned an exceptional story. I loved the endearing characters and their spiritual and emotional journeys! I was also touched by the themes of compassion and forgiveness, expressed so eloquently in this novella. One of my favorite quotes is, “Forgiving isn’t saying what they did is right, it’s simply letting go of the past and choosing to walk toward God’s light and love, instead of toward darkness.”

Inspiring words of wisdom and faith, woven together in this tender love story, make Forget Me Not a must read!

I received a complimentary copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
Profile Image for Carrie Daws.
Author 33 books143 followers
July 19, 2014
This book has sealed Miralee Ferrell as one of my favorite authors. Taking place shortly after Blowing on Dandelions, the story expanded slightly on Dandelions but largely dealt with Pastor Seth and why he was still single at 27. It also introduced some of the problems faced by the Chinamen who came to America during this time period, as well as the prejudice held by some of the white folks. I quickly saw the 'train wreck' that was going to happen, yet the characters were so real to me that I had to know how they came through it all. If you like historical romance then you might like this story, but I recommend you start with Blowing on Dandelions.
Profile Image for Teresa Moore.
15 reviews
March 6, 2014
Absolutely loved this book and how not only about a second chance at love but also how even as Christians we could be prejudice, and not realize that holding on to hurt, not only stops us from moving forward but also stops God from healing that pain and helping us to move past. Thank you again Miralee Ferrell for weaving such a great story that also touches the heart of those of us that have had to deal with letting go and letting God heal.
Profile Image for Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...).
1,674 reviews582 followers
March 12, 2016
This novella is part of the Love Blossoms in Oregon series which I have enjoyed (see my review of Wishing on Buttercups). Pastor Seth makes appearances in the first two books of the series and I was so excited to read his story. I had a hard time relating to Julia- the introduction of her backstory was vague about why she jilted Seth and the intensity of her regret was inconsistent throughout the book. She ran hot and cold with him as their relationship began to redevelop, and could only see her situation in black and white- either isolate herself from society in order to serve the Chinese immigrants, or give up her charitable endeavor altogether if she ever wants a normal life. While she wanted to make a difference and fight prejudice, she was also judgmental of others who weren't as passionate as she. I liked the scenes where the characters from the previous novels get to know Julia and help her overcome her internal struggles and find peace. The "villian" in the story was Mrs. Evans, a busybody from Seth's church who didn't approve of Julia. I thought she was portrayed very over the top; she became a caricature. It bothered me that both Seth and Julia used the phrase "Mrs. Evans and her ilk" during their inner dialogues. Seth and Julia are both repetitive as they agonize over the choices in front of them which prevented the story from flowing smoothly for me.

I've read wonderful reviews from others who really enjoyed this novella, so please don't let my hang-ups prevent you from reading it if you are a fan of the series! I am looking forward to the third book, Dreaming on Daisies, which releases later this year.

(ARC provided by the author for unbiased review)
7 reviews
March 26, 2014
Miralee Ferrell’s most recent addition to her ‘Love Blossoms in Oregon’ series answers readers’ many questions about Pastor Seth Russell, introduced in the first book, Blowing on Dandelions. This novella-length addition to the series highlights Miralee’s ability to craft a powerful, thought-provoking story in so few pages.

Julia McKenzie is a strong, determined woman with a faith that drives her desire to care for those who are misunderstood and despised in the community of Baker City. Julia’s unwavering commitment to action is inspiring, though this was not without inner tension and criticism from “upright” Christian people. Julia’s conflict regarding her relationship with Seth was realistic, to the point I was never quite sure what the outcome would be.

This book is a mere 145 pages, yet I felt as though I had read a full-length novel. Miralee has managed to pack this little gem with all the hallmarks of a great read: wonderful characters, engaging plot and a satisfying ending, all tied together with her trademark writing style which makes her books such a pleasure to read.

Forget Me Not was a thought-provoking read as well. Julia’s story reminded me that God chargers his children to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God. Julia is the epitome of these characteristics and she shows what that could look like in real life. It made me think about whom the downtrodden people in my community are and how I can support them through their struggles in life. More than that I was challenged about how I respond to those who may criticise my obedience to what God would have me do.
Profile Image for Sarah.
958 reviews33 followers
April 25, 2014
I had the privilege of reviewing "Wishing on Buttercups" and was completely moved at Miralee's ability to weave history within a story, capture my interest and kept me up all night just to finish the book. Well, I can honestly say, she has done it again and exceeded my expectations with "Forget Me Not."

In "Forget Me Not,"we meet Julia McKenzie and Seth Russell. Seth is a local pastor and a man from her past, but Julia is convicted of her specific purpose to help out the women in Chinatown, even if it means she gets hurt along the way. Seth feels that Julia should be protected and he has romantic feelings for Julia. Julia feels like she is an independent woman who can take care of herself and wants to prove to Seth that she can indeed take care of herself and the women of Chinatown.

This book has several main points and I don't want to give a lot of the story plot away. If you like romance novels with suspense and history, you'll love this book. I also loved the themes of forgiveness, mercy and grace. Although I have not read "Blowing on Dandelions", (BK#1) these books can be read as stand alones.
I received an Advanced Copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. I was not compensated for a positive review.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
516 reviews20 followers
March 21, 2014
"She hadn't come West with visions of winning souls like some missionaries she knew, nor did she hope to win any contests for high esteem among the stalwart members of the community, but her passion burned to make a difference in the lives of downtrodden people. If she could make even one person's life easier, it was worth whatever sacrifice she was called to make." Julia reminds me a great deal of myself. I have always been rather outspoken and also want to help others. That is the mark I would like to leave on this world, and Julia has the same attitude.
This was a delightful novella to read. I have never had the pleasure of traveling to Oregon but it certainly sounds beautiful. I did not realize there was such a prejudice in that area against the Chinese people either. I love learning new and exciting historical facts as I read a lively romance! 5 Stars, for sure!
I purchased a kindle copy of this book with a gift card I received. Lucky me!
Profile Image for Margaret Metz.
415 reviews9 followers
August 7, 2015
I liked it. I especially liked the beginning. There was a lot of great character development and interesting story. The ending felt rushed - but I think that was due to it's length. I don't usually read novellas because I just prefer more time to really get lost in the world and get to know the characters. This one seemed longer in the description but that's because there are several first chapters of her other books included at the end.

I think the message of everyone serving and being called in their own way spoke to me. Lately there has been a lot of pressure from certain groups about being upset or not upset about this issue or that. I think it's possible to care about more than one thing at a time, and just because "x" issue is heavy on my heart doesn't mean that "y" isn't also important -- or that I'm less of a Christian or American.
Profile Image for Melissa.
286 reviews62 followers
March 18, 2014
I enjoyed reading about Seth in this novella. He is drawn to Julia, and as their friendship deepens...he begins to feel romantic feelings towards her. I like the way that Julia has grown since we first met her, she seems emotionally ready for a relationship now.
And, I really enjoyed the descriptions of the town and the characters in Miralee's books, you really feel like you are there visiting with them.

This book could easily be a "stand alone" story, but I recommend that you read all of the books in the "Love Blossoms in Oregon" series to fully understand the characters.
7 reviews
December 28, 2023
I really enjoyed Forget Me Not by Miralee Ferrell. It was a book I didn't want to put down. She brought the town of Baker City to life in such a way that you could imagine you were there. Forget Me Not is a sweet romance, of forgiveness, misunderstandings and finding love again , and having grace. Her characters are described in detail and you can picture each character in your mind's eye..
A wonderful read. I am looking forward to reading more of her books!
Excellent job Miralee.
Profile Image for Lori Weller.
323 reviews18 followers
January 23, 2015
Forget Me Not is a great addition to the Love Blossoms in Oregon Series. It can be read alone but is most enjoyed as part of the series. Miralee has not disappointed me in her descriptions of characters and scenery. It is so realistic you feel a part of the book. I can't wait to read the next one in the series!
Profile Image for Sharon.
339 reviews10 followers
Read
October 29, 2014
AWESOME AND HEARTWARMING !!!

I loved this book as much as the first in the series !!! Can't wait to get through the rest of the series and see how they all end up !!! Recommend to anyone who loves a great story and strong characters who will make you love them and also make you think about your own life more also !!!!
4 reviews
June 9, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book - Novellas normally leave me feeling flat and wanting more but not this time. It was a really satisfying read. I love this series and am really looking forward to the release of Dreaming on Daisies. Bring on October 2014.
Profile Image for Patty .
270 reviews13 followers
May 31, 2014
A charming addition to the series. I read this after having read books 1 & 2 and now am looking forward to book 3.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,389 reviews12 followers
June 23, 2025
2.5 stars. I listened to this audiobook in one sitting as it’s quite a quick read, clocking in at 4 hours. I picked this up because I was looking for books that would satisfy a “two books with the same titles” bingo square, and there’s at least three other Forget Me Nots that I have/will read. As an Oregonian, I was intrigued by the historical romance set in Baker City. I don’t often read Christian fiction, but it’s also nice to mix it up. In this second chance romance, Julia and preacher Seth rekindle their former flame after seven years apart. This book’s first turn-off was how Julia went from not recognizing this apparent love of her life to instantly feeling infatuated as if no time or intervening events had passed. I really struggled with the Chinese immigrant representation. It felt so stereotypical with too much emphasis on the white savior. Maybe the stilted broken English speech on the audiobook exaggerated the effect, but I felt there was a missed opportunity to humanized these underrepresented characters. I appreciate what the author is trying to do (as evidenced in the author’s notes), but I think she misses the mark in execution. Maybe this book would be better as a full-length novel in which their story gets fleshed out a bit more. I almost rounded this book up on the rating because I think the intentions are good, but as it currently stands, I would recommend skipping this.
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,178 reviews12 followers
March 5, 2018
Picture a young woman who has a special calling on her life that goes against the grain of the way most people believed in the 1880s in Oregon and throughout most of the country. Her calling took her into dangerous places and situations where other women would not consider getting involved and that most respectable men would avoid. The daughter of a pastor, she was well acquainted with how insensitive and uncaring church people could be. After her father died, the church he had pastored treated her so shabbily that she was struggling with a major case of unforgiveness while still trying to carry out the mission she felt God had led her to pursue. Her unforgiveness affected other areas of her life in negative ways and had an impact on how she perceived people. Have you ever fought this battle? Maybe you are still stuck in a situation because of an unwillingness to forgive, or possibly the failure to recognize the need. In the case of Julia, Pastor Seth and several ladies in his congregation cross her path and help to make a difference in her life even as she is seeking to make a difference for a group of people whose plight the church is ignoring. I love the message this book conveys. Many people throughout our world need to hear this message.
392 reviews6 followers
April 16, 2018
Clean Christian historical novel

This is the 3rd in the series, this was a disappointment and was boring compared to the other books. What was boring was the focus was basically on the preacher and his friend the others barely mentioned and that is what I was looking forward to continue. I still recommend this talented author.

Profile Image for Marty Moore.
762 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2020
A Great Lesson Within The Story

Forgiveness and acceptance are the theme of this story. I loved the way the message is brought to us in this beautiful love story. We need to accept people for who they are, not what they look like. Weaved throughout the story, we see two people who have been through a lot and each need the other. I loved this story.
Profile Image for Pat.
60 reviews
September 30, 2025
I read the three other books in this series in June 2015, but I just bought this one. After reading Forget Me Not I have decided to read the rest of the series again. I thoroughly enjoy historical fiction and especially the author’s research notes. This is an interesting and well written series.
Profile Image for Heidi Matheson.
148 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2018
I had just completed the Love Blossoms trilogy when I discovered Forget Me Not & was very pleasantly surprised to realise I didn’t have to leave Baker City behind just yet. Lovely story - enjoyed getting to know some different characters without leaving others behind.
Profile Image for Kay.
506 reviews13 followers
January 21, 2020
I really enjoyed this story of community, commitment and forgiveness. It’s also a sweet romance. You will enjoy it even more if you’ve read the first book in the series, but it isn’t at all necessary.
69 reviews
March 25, 2020
Long lost love

This story was a delight to read even though I haven't read the other books in this series! Lovely characters and lessons learned by them was interesting. I enjoy this author.
Profile Image for Susan.
71 reviews4 followers
December 12, 2019
Totally delightful

Lost loves discover one another again. A bigot is transformed. Eastern Oregon is the perfect setting for this nineteenth century tale.
Profile Image for Tina .
780 reviews
August 25, 2015
Forget Me Not, Love Blooms in Oregon Series—from Miralee Ferrell*****—PDF

Julie McKenzie is a pastor's daughter from Omaha. After struggling to forgive “friends” from her home town that deeply hurt her, even Christians from her church, she finds herself in Baker City, Indiana. Here she hopes to make a difference in the lives of the “less desirable” among the “good people” of Baker City and carry out the ministry God has placed on her heart. In order to do this she must go into parts of the town that are less respectable to visit the women she is reaching out to. Julie befriends them, shares her faith and helps them anyway she can. Late one night as she is returning from one of these meetings at a saloon she runs into a man. Fearful at first to his intentions she struggles to get away. He reassures her that he means her no harm and offers to walk her safely home. As they walk to the hotel where she is staying she learns that he is a Pastor. Great, she thinks, just what she did not want remembering her past hurts. Pastor Seth Russell realizes he knows this woman. It is Julia, the woman he loved years ago and has never forgotten. But does she remember him and will he finally find out why she suddenly left him before their marriage? At the hotel she is shocked when she learns who he is. Julia has not forgotten Seth either in all these years. Afraid of being hurt again or misunderstood like before, she does not want Seth to find out what she is doing.
As was her routine, she visits the Chinese people who live in China Town. Her friend was not at work the night before and she is concerned. Things start to become dangerous, not only for the Chinese community but for Julia as well as prejudice runs high.
Will Seth understand and support her in her ministry once he learns what God has called her to do? Or will he too look down on her as others in Baker City now do? Will Seth see that the Chinese are God's children and part of his ministry? What plans does God have for Julia and Seth?

I love that many characters from the other books: Wilma Roberts and her niece Beth, Katherine and Micah Jacobs and Mrs. Cooper from previous books in this series return in Forget Me Not. It is fun to catch up on their lives and see the support they give Seth and Julia and the community. Julia learns how to forgive those who had hurt her in the past with help from these loving women and finds she has true friends. As in the books in this series, the true-to-life characters in Forget Me Not struggle with some of the same problems we often face, including; judging others, prejudice, unforgiveness, forgiveness, suspense, hurt feelings, romance, love, faith coupled with Biblical lessons and wisdom and following God's call on our hearts. Miralee continues to write books that not only entertain but stir the heart and the love of God for each of us. I love Forget Me Not (and others in this series) and highly recommend them.


~~I received an Advanced Reader's PDF Copy of this book from the author for my review~~
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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