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Forgive Me
From the internationally bestselling author of My Lies, Your Lies comes a gripping story of love, family, and the price of forgiveness, for readers of Diane Chamberlain and Lisa Scottoline.
In prison, Archie Colbrook spends his time writing letters. Letters addressed to a person against whom he committed terrible, nameless harm. Archie knows he doesn’t deserve forgiveness. Yes, he didn’t mean to hurt anyone, and sure, he was only following orders. But does that matter? He still did it.
In a small coastal town of Northern England, Claudia Winters hopes to feel safe for the first time in years after fleeing from her abusive husband with her mother and daughter. Their new life is supposed to be a fresh start. But Claudia knows the past won’t stay hidden for long—and she can’t help but feel that someone is watching her. And that something terrible is about to happen.
Linked by one irrevocable act of violence, Archie and Claudia’s lives intertwine. Claudia can’t overlook what Archie did to her family—but is forgiveness the only way to truly move on?
Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis’s latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness.
In prison, Archie Colbrook spends his time writing letters. Letters addressed to a person against whom he committed terrible, nameless harm. Archie knows he doesn’t deserve forgiveness. Yes, he didn’t mean to hurt anyone, and sure, he was only following orders. But does that matter? He still did it.
In a small coastal town of Northern England, Claudia Winters hopes to feel safe for the first time in years after fleeing from her abusive husband with her mother and daughter. Their new life is supposed to be a fresh start. But Claudia knows the past won’t stay hidden for long—and she can’t help but feel that someone is watching her. And that something terrible is about to happen.
Linked by one irrevocable act of violence, Archie and Claudia’s lives intertwine. Claudia can’t overlook what Archie did to her family—but is forgiveness the only way to truly move on?
Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis’s latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2021
618 people are currently reading
4797 people want to read
About the author
Susan Lewis
67 books1,203 followersLibrarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Susan Lewis is the bestselling author of over forty books across the genres of family drama, thriller, suspense and crime. She is also the author of Just One More Day and One Day at a Time, the moving memoirs of her childhood in Bristol during the 1960s. Following periods of living in Los Angeles and the South of France, she currently lives in Gloucestershire with her husband James, stepsons Michael and Luke, and mischievous dogs Coco and Lulu.
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Susan Lewis is the bestselling author of over forty books across the genres of family drama, thriller, suspense and crime. She is also the author of Just One More Day and One Day at a Time, the moving memoirs of her childhood in Bristol during the 1960s. Following periods of living in Los Angeles and the South of France, she currently lives in Gloucestershire with her husband James, stepsons Michael and Luke, and mischievous dogs Coco and Lulu.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
January 24, 2021
3.5 stars
This book took me on a journey. And by that I mean it started off strong, lost its way for awhile, but thankfully got back on track and turned into a thought-provoking read. Not a perfect reading experience but nonetheless it was still worthwhile.
I've been debating about whether to provide a decent synopsis or a vague one and I've decided less is more. A women flees from an abusive marriage and skips town with her mother and teenage daughter. She's afraid her husband will track them down so the three of them will be living under new identities. However, the threat of being discovered still weighs heavily on their minds. Restorative justice is a topic that is explored in this novel but don't read too much into my brief synopsis and assume you understand how it factors into the story.
The opening chapters were tension filled because you want to make sure the women can escape the horrible man. Once they get settled in their new town that's when I thought there were some problems with the writing. The transitions to the other characters in the town were a bit weak and confusing at first. The letter portions of the book were done in a slightly better way. For awhile I felt like I was being told about these close connections between characters rather than being shown. It felt like the story wasn't focused for an extended period of time to which I contemplated giving up on the book.
Once the restorative justice part of the story is firmly established that's what helped in bringing back my interest in the characters. It made me start thinking about what I would do in each character's shoes. Another aspect of the story I found fascinating was seeing the justice system play out in a UK setting rather than the United States which is where I live. Being able to compare and contrast the two systems was an extra reason I found this book to be an interesting read.
Thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of this book as part of the #WMTastemakers program. All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
This book took me on a journey. And by that I mean it started off strong, lost its way for awhile, but thankfully got back on track and turned into a thought-provoking read. Not a perfect reading experience but nonetheless it was still worthwhile.
I've been debating about whether to provide a decent synopsis or a vague one and I've decided less is more. A women flees from an abusive marriage and skips town with her mother and teenage daughter. She's afraid her husband will track them down so the three of them will be living under new identities. However, the threat of being discovered still weighs heavily on their minds. Restorative justice is a topic that is explored in this novel but don't read too much into my brief synopsis and assume you understand how it factors into the story.
The opening chapters were tension filled because you want to make sure the women can escape the horrible man. Once they get settled in their new town that's when I thought there were some problems with the writing. The transitions to the other characters in the town were a bit weak and confusing at first. The letter portions of the book were done in a slightly better way. For awhile I felt like I was being told about these close connections between characters rather than being shown. It felt like the story wasn't focused for an extended period of time to which I contemplated giving up on the book.
Once the restorative justice part of the story is firmly established that's what helped in bringing back my interest in the characters. It made me start thinking about what I would do in each character's shoes. Another aspect of the story I found fascinating was seeing the justice system play out in a UK setting rather than the United States which is where I live. Being able to compare and contrast the two systems was an extra reason I found this book to be an interesting read.
Thank you to William Morrow for sending me an advance copy of this book as part of the #WMTastemakers program. All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
December 7, 2022
EXCERPT: You know how it goes, some people you like and some you just don't. I can tell you this much, you're not going to like me. No one does. I don't even like myself, especially not after what I did. Not even before it, really.
ABOUT 'FORGIVE ME': I can’t forgive myself. Not after what I did. Could you?
This is Claudia Winters’s last chance for a fresh start. Changing her name and leaving her old life behind, she has fled to the small town of Kesterly with her mother and daughter. Here, she hopes they can be safe for the first time in years.
But the past can’t stay hidden forever. And even as Claudia makes new friends and builds a new life, she can’t help feeling it’s all about to catch up with her… Until one disastrous night changes everything forever.
MY THOUGHTS: Forgive Me is an emotional read, and by that I mean that Susan Lewis had my emotions all over the place. It is a dramatic read as three generations of women walk out on their old lives and set up somewhere new. For Claudia, this means leaving an abusive relationship. Marcus has warned her that he will never let her go and will chase her down to the ends of the earth. And that was before she took the proof of his illegal activities as her insurance. But is having this information an insurance or a liability?
Interspersed with Claudia, Jasmine and Marcy's story are letters from a disadvantaged young man talking about his life and saying sorry. But sorry for what? We don't find out until well into the book when the two disparate threads join together.
Marcy, Claudia's mother, is an incredibly strong character as is Jasmine, Claudia's daughter. Claudia is, understandably, a bag of nerves and wants to live the rest of her life as a recluse. But with a musical prodigy for a daughter and a social butterfly for a mother, that's just not going to happen. But every person they interact with brings the danger of Marcus tracking them down and exacting his revenge even closer.
Forgive Me deals with the concept of restorative justice. It's an interesting concept and during the course of this read my opinion of the process swung wildly. At the end, I'm still not sure, but then it's not a 'one size fits all' situation.
Forgive Me is an emotional family drama focused on family, friendship and forgiveness.
The audiobook is superbly narrated by Sam Newton and Laura Kirman
⭐⭐⭐.8
#ForgiveMe #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
I: @susanlewisbooks @harpercollinsuk
T: @susanlewisbooks @HarperCollinsUK
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #friendship #romance
THE AUTHOR: Susan Lewis is the bestselling author of over forty books across the genres of family drama, thriller, suspense and crime. She is also the author of Just One More Day and One Day at a Time, the moving memoirs of her childhood in Bristol during the 1960s. Following periods of living in Los Angeles and the South of France, she currently lives in Gloucestershire with her husband James, stepsons Michael and Luke, and mischievous dogs Coco and Lulu.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to the Waitomo District Library for the loan of the audiobook Forgive Me, written by Susan Lewis and narrated by Sam Newton and Laura Kirman. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'FORGIVE ME': I can’t forgive myself. Not after what I did. Could you?
This is Claudia Winters’s last chance for a fresh start. Changing her name and leaving her old life behind, she has fled to the small town of Kesterly with her mother and daughter. Here, she hopes they can be safe for the first time in years.
But the past can’t stay hidden forever. And even as Claudia makes new friends and builds a new life, she can’t help feeling it’s all about to catch up with her… Until one disastrous night changes everything forever.
MY THOUGHTS: Forgive Me is an emotional read, and by that I mean that Susan Lewis had my emotions all over the place. It is a dramatic read as three generations of women walk out on their old lives and set up somewhere new. For Claudia, this means leaving an abusive relationship. Marcus has warned her that he will never let her go and will chase her down to the ends of the earth. And that was before she took the proof of his illegal activities as her insurance. But is having this information an insurance or a liability?
Interspersed with Claudia, Jasmine and Marcy's story are letters from a disadvantaged young man talking about his life and saying sorry. But sorry for what? We don't find out until well into the book when the two disparate threads join together.
Marcy, Claudia's mother, is an incredibly strong character as is Jasmine, Claudia's daughter. Claudia is, understandably, a bag of nerves and wants to live the rest of her life as a recluse. But with a musical prodigy for a daughter and a social butterfly for a mother, that's just not going to happen. But every person they interact with brings the danger of Marcus tracking them down and exacting his revenge even closer.
Forgive Me deals with the concept of restorative justice. It's an interesting concept and during the course of this read my opinion of the process swung wildly. At the end, I'm still not sure, but then it's not a 'one size fits all' situation.
Forgive Me is an emotional family drama focused on family, friendship and forgiveness.
The audiobook is superbly narrated by Sam Newton and Laura Kirman
⭐⭐⭐.8
#ForgiveMe #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
I: @susanlewisbooks @harpercollinsuk
T: @susanlewisbooks @HarperCollinsUK
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #friendship #romance
THE AUTHOR: Susan Lewis is the bestselling author of over forty books across the genres of family drama, thriller, suspense and crime. She is also the author of Just One More Day and One Day at a Time, the moving memoirs of her childhood in Bristol during the 1960s. Following periods of living in Los Angeles and the South of France, she currently lives in Gloucestershire with her husband James, stepsons Michael and Luke, and mischievous dogs Coco and Lulu.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to the Waitomo District Library for the loan of the audiobook Forgive Me, written by Susan Lewis and narrated by Sam Newton and Laura Kirman. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
February 6, 2021
It took me awhile to really get engaged with the events of this story, the first half was a little too plodding for my liking - but having enjoyed others by Lewis, I'm glad that I persevered with it.
The story is told through both a series of letters from 19 year old inmate Archie and Claudia's hopes of starting a new life away from her abusive husband (who is also serving time for money laundering).
Claudia along with her daughter Jasmine, and mother Marcy flee to the small town of Kesterly.
The idea that our main protagonist wishes to use a new identity was an interesting one, for those wishing to know more about Claudia would struggle to find any past mentions of her new name - which actually made her more visible than she realised.
*minor spoilers* Once the events that reveal the connection between Claudia and Archie are played out, I found the book to be unputdownable.
I liked the themes of forgiveness that the author was exploring with the use of restorative justice to be really thought provoking.
The story is told through both a series of letters from 19 year old inmate Archie and Claudia's hopes of starting a new life away from her abusive husband (who is also serving time for money laundering).
Claudia along with her daughter Jasmine, and mother Marcy flee to the small town of Kesterly.
The idea that our main protagonist wishes to use a new identity was an interesting one, for those wishing to know more about Claudia would struggle to find any past mentions of her new name - which actually made her more visible than she realised.
*minor spoilers* Once the events that reveal the connection between Claudia and Archie are played out, I found the book to be unputdownable.
I liked the themes of forgiveness that the author was exploring with the use of restorative justice to be really thought provoking.
May 29, 2024
I’m on a mission to catch up on one of my lifetime favourite authors, Susan Lewis.
Susan Lewis is an all rounder in her writing and the newer ones I’ve been reading are sure good thrillers, mysteries and day to day logical life.
Have you ever read a book where you end up feeling sorry for the wrong person? The perpetrator once you get more insight to them? If you ever have then you can relate to how I felt!
Asking myself, what in the world is wrong with me having compassion for the “wrong” guy.
The justice system.
They can use Restorative Justice. If the victim wants/agrees to meet with the person who harmed them. Preparing papers are drawn up beforehand of course and not everyone will want to come face to face with the perpetrator.
In this story she did. Other members of her family were not sure or dead against it.
They can see the consequences of their actions.
Some won’t care.
Some just might care.
There was an underlying fault with the action which ties in beautifully.
I listened to this on audio and the voice that took the part of the young man was so poignant without feeling sorry for himself.
I found myself just sat in this drama with thoughts of my own.
Could I do that?
I still don’t know.
The woman in the forefront I learnt a lot from. I would have shared her daughters thoughts and resistance I’m sure if it were my Mother. The resilience was amazing.
It’s not far fetched it’s very real, very believable.
This book will very bravely stay on my bookshelf for years to come.
Susan Lewis …her books I have read since my 20’s. She’s very up to date with such good themes and topics.
Susan Lewis is an all rounder in her writing and the newer ones I’ve been reading are sure good thrillers, mysteries and day to day logical life.
Have you ever read a book where you end up feeling sorry for the wrong person? The perpetrator once you get more insight to them? If you ever have then you can relate to how I felt!
Asking myself, what in the world is wrong with me having compassion for the “wrong” guy.
The justice system.
They can use Restorative Justice. If the victim wants/agrees to meet with the person who harmed them. Preparing papers are drawn up beforehand of course and not everyone will want to come face to face with the perpetrator.
In this story she did. Other members of her family were not sure or dead against it.
They can see the consequences of their actions.
Some won’t care.
Some just might care.
There was an underlying fault with the action which ties in beautifully.
I listened to this on audio and the voice that took the part of the young man was so poignant without feeling sorry for himself.
I found myself just sat in this drama with thoughts of my own.
Could I do that?
I still don’t know.
The woman in the forefront I learnt a lot from. I would have shared her daughters thoughts and resistance I’m sure if it were my Mother. The resilience was amazing.
It’s not far fetched it’s very real, very believable.
This book will very bravely stay on my bookshelf for years to come.
Susan Lewis …her books I have read since my 20’s. She’s very up to date with such good themes and topics.
March 28, 2021
This was a GR’s Giveaway that I wasn’t too confident I’d enjoy. I love selecting books exclusively by their covers, and this was one of those. I didn’t read the description until after I received it and was a little disappointed. But the explosive prologue sucked me right in. It wasn’t filled with the type of excitement I usually crave. I wouldn’t consider it a thriller. The pace was slow and steady, after the initial tension wore off. It had a unique premise and was more of a domestic drama, centered around an awful family disaster. I’m glad I gave it a chance!
The most fascinating parts were the letters from Archie—an inmate imprisoned for a horrendous crime. Was it intentional? Is his remorse real? I spent a big portion of the book trying to figure out who his victim was and how all the characters would eventually come together.
This is the second book I’ve read that included the subject of Restorative Justice. I found it to be an intriguing concept. I’m not sure it’s something I’d want to participate in, but it sounds helpful in some circumstances.
Life has been pretty chaotic lately, so I haven’t had a lot of time to sit down and read. I found myself waking up in the middle of the night to sneak in some reading time....and when my alarm went off at 6 am, I was irritated with myself, lol!
My first book by Susan Lewis was a well-written, darkly-twisted and emotional tale of forgiveness, after an excruciating tragedy. I felt like the ending was a little too slow, but I’m still adding her to my favorite author’s list! Most of the characters were likable and well developed. I enjoyed following Marcy, Claudia and Archie through their painful journey.
Thank you to GoodReads Giveaways, Susan Lewis and William Morrow for this free digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
My Rating: 4 ⭐️’s
Published: January 26th 2021 by William Morrow Paperbacks
Pages: 416
Recommend: Yes
@susanlewisbooks @WmMorrowBooks @goodreads #goodreadsgiveaway
#ForgiveMe #NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview #JustFinished #BookReview #RestorativeJustice #Forgiveness #DomesticViolence
The most fascinating parts were the letters from Archie—an inmate imprisoned for a horrendous crime. Was it intentional? Is his remorse real? I spent a big portion of the book trying to figure out who his victim was and how all the characters would eventually come together.
This is the second book I’ve read that included the subject of Restorative Justice. I found it to be an intriguing concept. I’m not sure it’s something I’d want to participate in, but it sounds helpful in some circumstances.
Life has been pretty chaotic lately, so I haven’t had a lot of time to sit down and read. I found myself waking up in the middle of the night to sneak in some reading time....and when my alarm went off at 6 am, I was irritated with myself, lol!
My first book by Susan Lewis was a well-written, darkly-twisted and emotional tale of forgiveness, after an excruciating tragedy. I felt like the ending was a little too slow, but I’m still adding her to my favorite author’s list! Most of the characters were likable and well developed. I enjoyed following Marcy, Claudia and Archie through their painful journey.
Thank you to GoodReads Giveaways, Susan Lewis and William Morrow for this free digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
My Rating: 4 ⭐️’s
Published: January 26th 2021 by William Morrow Paperbacks
Pages: 416
Recommend: Yes
@susanlewisbooks @WmMorrowBooks @goodreads #goodreadsgiveaway
#ForgiveMe #NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview #JustFinished #BookReview #RestorativeJustice #Forgiveness #DomesticViolence
November 13, 2020
Forgive Me is a compelling and deeply emotional mystery from one of the best writers of psychological suspense in the genre. The story opens with 19-year-old prison inmate Archie writing a letter, seemingly in the name of restorative justice, to someone he wronged in the past. Claudia Winters's second husband, financier Marcus Huxley Browne, has been on trial in London for the past five months for insider trading, money laundering, fraud and other shady goings-on, and before his arrest had threatened Claudia never to even think of leaving him as with his long reach and many nefarious connections he claims he would find her pretty swiftly. Despite this Claudia musters the strength to leave her marriage of five years and takes their 16-year-old daughter, Jasmine, and mother, Marcy, with her deeming his incarceration the perfect opportunity to evade him. Together the family flee from West London to Kesterly-on-Sea in the West Country, where they have bought a beautiful seafront Victorian villa to inhabit, to both escape Marcus's criminal misdeeds and dangerous gangland connections but also the abuse and controlling behaviour he inflicted on Claudia for far too long.
To free themselves from their nightmare they go to great lengths to become inconspicuous by changing their names, appearances and even identities. As we follow them going about their new lives Archie and Claudia's family are unwittingly on a collision course and what they have taken with them, Marcus will never let them keep... This is not only a thoroughly enjoyable, compulsive domestic thriller but it also is emotionally impactful in that it explores the issues present within a troubled marriage, Britain’s vast criminal underworld and the sheer terror women can feel when they decide to leave an unhappy home. It is such a relatable story, and I found it was easy to engage and empathise with Claudia as a character; she is one of the most beautifully developed and genuine characters I have come across in the genre in a while. It’s difficult nowadays to find original thrillers but this was refreshingly so and it really nabbed my attention andhad me hanging on every word. Compelling, full of mystery with some exciting and unpredictable twists and stunning reveals; Lewis manages to keep an air of mystery right through to the end. High recommended.
To free themselves from their nightmare they go to great lengths to become inconspicuous by changing their names, appearances and even identities. As we follow them going about their new lives Archie and Claudia's family are unwittingly on a collision course and what they have taken with them, Marcus will never let them keep... This is not only a thoroughly enjoyable, compulsive domestic thriller but it also is emotionally impactful in that it explores the issues present within a troubled marriage, Britain’s vast criminal underworld and the sheer terror women can feel when they decide to leave an unhappy home. It is such a relatable story, and I found it was easy to engage and empathise with Claudia as a character; she is one of the most beautifully developed and genuine characters I have come across in the genre in a while. It’s difficult nowadays to find original thrillers but this was refreshingly so and it really nabbed my attention andhad me hanging on every word. Compelling, full of mystery with some exciting and unpredictable twists and stunning reveals; Lewis manages to keep an air of mystery right through to the end. High recommended.
February 8, 2021
I finished Forgive me yesterday and have sat and thought how to review this book. It's hard because I think it's a nice concept it is just quite boring to read. It is predictable but in an unrealistic way.
Forgive me is centred around a grandmother ( mother and daughter. "This is Claudia Winters’s last chance for a fresh start. Changing her name and leaving her old life behind, she has fled to the small town of Kesterly with her mother and daughter. Here, she hopes they can be safe for the first time in years.
But the past can’t stay hidden forever. And even as Claudia makes new friends and builds a new life, she can’t help feeling it’s all about to catch up with her… Until one disastrous night changes everything forever."
I wish the main storyline about Claudia escaping her husband had no bearing in the book, because it barely does! It wraps the story up so it's around her which once you get far enough through you realise she's not the main focus. Plus she's a wet blanket and I just don't like her.
Her mother, whose name escapes me is more central to the story. She has a tough decision to make and I really enjoyed reading her parts of the story. It made for a good read but I don't feel we hear her voice enough.
Then there are the penpal letters throughout in relation to restorative justice, which is an interesting form of repentance for criminals to use to help themselves and their victims. As a law lover and law teacher this is something I have studied alot and taught about and it's a great concept. I know the book stretches the limits of RJ but it's a bit to far.
In summary I didn’t hate this book, but I didn't love it. It reads well and easily but the storyline just wasn't gripping. I felt on edge waiting for some big twist and it never came. I rate this book 2 stars.
Forgive me is centred around a grandmother ( mother and daughter. "This is Claudia Winters’s last chance for a fresh start. Changing her name and leaving her old life behind, she has fled to the small town of Kesterly with her mother and daughter. Here, she hopes they can be safe for the first time in years.
But the past can’t stay hidden forever. And even as Claudia makes new friends and builds a new life, she can’t help feeling it’s all about to catch up with her… Until one disastrous night changes everything forever."
I wish the main storyline about Claudia escaping her husband had no bearing in the book, because it barely does! It wraps the story up so it's around her which once you get far enough through you realise she's not the main focus. Plus she's a wet blanket and I just don't like her.
Her mother, whose name escapes me is more central to the story. She has a tough decision to make and I really enjoyed reading her parts of the story. It made for a good read but I don't feel we hear her voice enough.
Then there are the penpal letters throughout in relation to restorative justice, which is an interesting form of repentance for criminals to use to help themselves and their victims. As a law lover and law teacher this is something I have studied alot and taught about and it's a great concept. I know the book stretches the limits of RJ but it's a bit to far.
In summary I didn’t hate this book, but I didn't love it. It reads well and easily but the storyline just wasn't gripping. I felt on edge waiting for some big twist and it never came. I rate this book 2 stars.
August 28, 2021
If you want to read a book that has a simple plot, is light on violence, drugs, sex and murder then this is definitely for you. It is an easy read where all the characters are nice, but believable "no". I want to read a thriller that thrills, keeps me in suspense and inspires a hungry turn of pages.
After helping with the conviction of her husband for fraud, Claudia, her daughter and mother, need to forget their past and start a new life with new identities. Soon the past catches up with them. Their cover is blown, and the man searching for them hires someone to send a message that he has not forgiven or forgotten. If I tell you any more it might reveal what little plot there is !!!
For me most of the characters never really felt believable. For example, it seems too far stretched to read of a person who has their house burned down and left with severe facial scarring but forgives before the case even reaches the court. I support rehabilitation justice but the reality is, most will not forgive or come to terms with attempted murder that quickly.
It is a nice beach read with nice people.
After helping with the conviction of her husband for fraud, Claudia, her daughter and mother, need to forget their past and start a new life with new identities. Soon the past catches up with them. Their cover is blown, and the man searching for them hires someone to send a message that he has not forgiven or forgotten. If I tell you any more it might reveal what little plot there is !!!
For me most of the characters never really felt believable. For example, it seems too far stretched to read of a person who has their house burned down and left with severe facial scarring but forgives before the case even reaches the court. I support rehabilitation justice but the reality is, most will not forgive or come to terms with attempted murder that quickly.
It is a nice beach read with nice people.
February 12, 2021
Forgiveness. Could you forgive someone who has done something horrendous to you? The concept of Restorative Justice (RJ) is addressed in Forgive Me, a story about what happens when someone who has committed a terrible crime connects with the victim with the purpose of creating the possibility of healing for both.
This compelling book starts by introducing Archie, a man who has committed a terrible crime. It is the start of a series of letters written to his victim.
We also meet Claudia, her daughter Jasmine and her mother Marcy (not their real names) who flee from Claudia’s abusive second husband, who is on trial for money laundering. They settle in a small town fearful of being found. As they settle in, they find a warm and welcoming group of new friends. One is a lawyer who specializes in RJ.
The story of Claudia and her family unfolds and the fear that their past will catch up with them is always present, especially as the husband’s incarceration is coming to an end. We also learn more about Archie - his crime, his victim and his quest for forgiveness.
This is a powerful and emotional book. The concept of Restorative Justice will challenge your feelings on criminals, rehabilitation and the possibility of it helping victims. This is my first book by author Susan Lewis and it won’t be the last.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
This compelling book starts by introducing Archie, a man who has committed a terrible crime. It is the start of a series of letters written to his victim.
We also meet Claudia, her daughter Jasmine and her mother Marcy (not their real names) who flee from Claudia’s abusive second husband, who is on trial for money laundering. They settle in a small town fearful of being found. As they settle in, they find a warm and welcoming group of new friends. One is a lawyer who specializes in RJ.
The story of Claudia and her family unfolds and the fear that their past will catch up with them is always present, especially as the husband’s incarceration is coming to an end. We also learn more about Archie - his crime, his victim and his quest for forgiveness.
This is a powerful and emotional book. The concept of Restorative Justice will challenge your feelings on criminals, rehabilitation and the possibility of it helping victims. This is my first book by author Susan Lewis and it won’t be the last.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
November 15, 2020
Forgive Me is the latest offering from Susan Lewis, is more a family saga than a thriller, it’s a book that will touch its readers hearts. With dark and uncomfortable themes such as domestic abuse, victims of crime, and restorative justice at its core you would be forgiving in thinking this maybe a depressing read. But this book is also one of hope, love, family and forgiveness.
Claudia is married to Marcus, their relationship is one filled with violence when her husband is arrested she flees, along with her daughter and mother.
With new identities they begin a journey that promises peace, and happiness.
Unfortunately their past catches up with them in the most horrific way and life changes for all three will be changed forever. The characters are well drawn and an interesting combination,Susan Lewis reveals their personal struggles, which evoke many emotions including sadness, anger and disbelief, to name but a few.
Although I found the ending slightly predictable and clear cut I still really enjoyed Forgive Me. I especially enjoyed learning more about restorative justice and learning about the reasoning behind it, and how it can help both the victim and the perpetrator. It gives the reader food for thought, and I’m sure will find yourself debating to the right and wrongs of such a system. As I mentioned earlier this is more family saga than thriller, so it didn’t keep me ‘on the edge of my seat’ but it made for an enjoyable, quick read.
Claudia is married to Marcus, their relationship is one filled with violence when her husband is arrested she flees, along with her daughter and mother.
With new identities they begin a journey that promises peace, and happiness.
Unfortunately their past catches up with them in the most horrific way and life changes for all three will be changed forever. The characters are well drawn and an interesting combination,Susan Lewis reveals their personal struggles, which evoke many emotions including sadness, anger and disbelief, to name but a few.
Although I found the ending slightly predictable and clear cut I still really enjoyed Forgive Me. I especially enjoyed learning more about restorative justice and learning about the reasoning behind it, and how it can help both the victim and the perpetrator. It gives the reader food for thought, and I’m sure will find yourself debating to the right and wrongs of such a system. As I mentioned earlier this is more family saga than thriller, so it didn’t keep me ‘on the edge of my seat’ but it made for an enjoyable, quick read.
March 11, 2021
I won this book through a giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very refreshing read. Enough suspense to fit my typical preferences and keep me happy, but different enough to be something new. I fell in love with the characters in this book and i thought the author did an amazing job at describing them. I felt like I actually knew them personally! You know it’s a good book when you find yourself getting emotionally involved in what happens throughout the book, lol! My only reason for 4 stars instead of 5, was the ending. It wasn’t a bad ending, but I do wish it would’ve ended differently....or with more information/story. I’m trying to say what I’m thinking without spoiling anything, haha.
This was a very refreshing read. Enough suspense to fit my typical preferences and keep me happy, but different enough to be something new. I fell in love with the characters in this book and i thought the author did an amazing job at describing them. I felt like I actually knew them personally! You know it’s a good book when you find yourself getting emotionally involved in what happens throughout the book, lol! My only reason for 4 stars instead of 5, was the ending. It wasn’t a bad ending, but I do wish it would’ve ended differently....or with more information/story. I’m trying to say what I’m thinking without spoiling anything, haha.
February 8, 2021
I have become a huge fan of Susan Lewis. She writes emotional stories that are realistic, timely and dealing in human nature. This one fits the bill and is compelling, drawing me in from the first page. Archie is a nineteen year old inmate writing letters to his victim. They are heartfelt, emotional and honest. Then there is Claudia Winter, her daughter Jasmine and mother Marcy who are trying to start a new life away from Claudia's abusive husband, Marcus Huxley Browne who is in prison for insider trading, fraud and more. They move to a remote town on the coast of Northern England. As the story progresses we see how these characters link together.
I really enjoyed this story. It was full of emotion and heartbreak. The issues that revolve around spousal abuse have far reaching arms into the lives of many. The story is not about the abuse, but life after escaping the abuser. Trying to begin a new life while constantly looking over your shoulder is difficult and exhausting. Then throw in that one act of violence and the story goes in a new direction. Now you have to deal with a serious crime and the fallout of that. The legal issues, court, and trial. More of an emotional roller coaster. The blurb says: Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis's latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness. This is a great description. I had heard about restorative justice and had even used it in my school when I was a principal, but this is a much bigger scale and seeing it put into practice, was very interesting. Forgiveness is important to the victim in order to move on. I really enjoyed this story and seeing how things played out. It was emotional, raw and honest and I definitely recommend this one. The narration by Laura Kirman and Sam Newton added much to my enjoyment of this book. It did take a while to get used to the accents, but once that was dealt with, they became the voice of the characters. Their expression was exactly what I was expecting for the story and I began to picture the characters as friends and acquaintances. I definitely recommend this one in any form. I received a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I really enjoyed this story. It was full of emotion and heartbreak. The issues that revolve around spousal abuse have far reaching arms into the lives of many. The story is not about the abuse, but life after escaping the abuser. Trying to begin a new life while constantly looking over your shoulder is difficult and exhausting. Then throw in that one act of violence and the story goes in a new direction. Now you have to deal with a serious crime and the fallout of that. The legal issues, court, and trial. More of an emotional roller coaster. The blurb says: Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis's latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness. This is a great description. I had heard about restorative justice and had even used it in my school when I was a principal, but this is a much bigger scale and seeing it put into practice, was very interesting. Forgiveness is important to the victim in order to move on. I really enjoyed this story and seeing how things played out. It was emotional, raw and honest and I definitely recommend this one. The narration by Laura Kirman and Sam Newton added much to my enjoyment of this book. It did take a while to get used to the accents, but once that was dealt with, they became the voice of the characters. Their expression was exactly what I was expecting for the story and I began to picture the characters as friends and acquaintances. I definitely recommend this one in any form. I received a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
November 16, 2020
Claudia Winters is hoping that fleeing to Kesterley with her mother and daughter, they will finally be safe for the time in years. But the past can't stay hidden forever.
Claudia, Jasmine and Marcia are trying to build a new life for themselves after Claudia had escaped from her abusive husband. Claudia and her daughter, Jasmine go live with her mother, Marcia. The plotline is interesting but it's also a bit predictable. The story is told in the form of letters to an unknown person and the characters perspectives. Theres also some characters from a previous book. This is a heartwarming book about forgiveness.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #HarperFiction and the author #SusanLewis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Claudia, Jasmine and Marcia are trying to build a new life for themselves after Claudia had escaped from her abusive husband. Claudia and her daughter, Jasmine go live with her mother, Marcia. The plotline is interesting but it's also a bit predictable. The story is told in the form of letters to an unknown person and the characters perspectives. Theres also some characters from a previous book. This is a heartwarming book about forgiveness.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #HarperFiction and the author #SusanLewis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2021
4.5 not my preferred genre but loved the slant this one took, had me listening all ears, all the time!
November 20, 2020
Restorative Justice was a very, very difficult concept for me to accept as my mind said the perps deserved the greatest punishment and not forgiveness for their crimes.
While reading the story, I realized that it was not about that. It was about getting to understand where the perp came from and probably seeing them in a different light so that forgiveness could help the victim not lead their lives in bitterness. Still a difficult pill to swallow.
Claudia, her mum, and daughter had escaped an abusive husband and set up a new life in a new close-knit town. Life was good for them until someone lit a fire to their home, thinking it would send a message to all three of them, not knowing the grandma had come back.
Then started the anguish for all three, mostly for the grandma, who was burned on the left side of face, hand, and torso and needed multiple surgeries. The perp was arrested after his own mother gave the information to the cops. The Restorative Justice team came into picture, and that started the writing of letters from Archie, a nineteen year old boy, the perp, to Marcy, the grandma who was burned and now disfigured forever, the victim. Would forgiveness happen?
Susan Lewis had written a heart wrenching where at first I was so angry with Archie for committing such a heinous crime as being a doc, I hated burns and knew how difficult it was to save the patient. I got to know Marcy’s trials at each step of her surgeries, her pain and anguish poured through. I stood in the sidelines with tears down my face as she hated her face and the arm which didn’t work well. I could feel her deep pit of anger and need for revenge. I was completely on her side. I wanted vengeance.
But as Archie’s letters came through and I got to know his tough life and circumstances, my heart starting melting at how children were abused to the point they turned to crime. I condemned his act but empathized with him. All I had to see was if Claudia and Marcy could forgive him. Would they? Should they?
The story was beautiful in its treatment and amazing at the way a perp caused my heart to soften with pain and understanding for him. My words might not do justice to this tough way of the project. But I understood that forgiveness was essential for the victim.
All the characters stood up well to the circumstances that presented to them. The author could sway my emotions in all directions. The story swept me away completely with the power of its words.
A few minutes after finishing the book, I had to ask myself again if I believed in Restorative Justice. The first answer was still a resounding NO. So I leave you with a question.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN RESTORATIVE JUSTICE?
While reading the story, I realized that it was not about that. It was about getting to understand where the perp came from and probably seeing them in a different light so that forgiveness could help the victim not lead their lives in bitterness. Still a difficult pill to swallow.
Claudia, her mum, and daughter had escaped an abusive husband and set up a new life in a new close-knit town. Life was good for them until someone lit a fire to their home, thinking it would send a message to all three of them, not knowing the grandma had come back.
Then started the anguish for all three, mostly for the grandma, who was burned on the left side of face, hand, and torso and needed multiple surgeries. The perp was arrested after his own mother gave the information to the cops. The Restorative Justice team came into picture, and that started the writing of letters from Archie, a nineteen year old boy, the perp, to Marcy, the grandma who was burned and now disfigured forever, the victim. Would forgiveness happen?
Susan Lewis had written a heart wrenching where at first I was so angry with Archie for committing such a heinous crime as being a doc, I hated burns and knew how difficult it was to save the patient. I got to know Marcy’s trials at each step of her surgeries, her pain and anguish poured through. I stood in the sidelines with tears down my face as she hated her face and the arm which didn’t work well. I could feel her deep pit of anger and need for revenge. I was completely on her side. I wanted vengeance.
But as Archie’s letters came through and I got to know his tough life and circumstances, my heart starting melting at how children were abused to the point they turned to crime. I condemned his act but empathized with him. All I had to see was if Claudia and Marcy could forgive him. Would they? Should they?
The story was beautiful in its treatment and amazing at the way a perp caused my heart to soften with pain and understanding for him. My words might not do justice to this tough way of the project. But I understood that forgiveness was essential for the victim.
All the characters stood up well to the circumstances that presented to them. The author could sway my emotions in all directions. The story swept me away completely with the power of its words.
A few minutes after finishing the book, I had to ask myself again if I believed in Restorative Justice. The first answer was still a resounding NO. So I leave you with a question.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN RESTORATIVE JUSTICE?
September 4, 2020
Be warned, this is a family drama and not a thriller. It does it a disservice to market it that way.
That being said, it was really enjoyable. When I started the prologue I wasn’t too sure I was going to be into this but I made myself give it time and I’m glad I did.
The characters in this are so fully fleshed out and relatable (the criminals not so much, relatable, mind you). The level of detail in the house design, RJ (Restorative Justice), and burn recovery was fascinating. The way all of this wove together was handled so well, the writing is superb.
It is a longer read than what I have been accustomed to lately but I found myself very sad when it was over. If you’re looking for a truly touching story don’t hesitate. I would recommend this and will look forward to more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and William Morrow and Custom House for a copy in exchange for a review.
That being said, it was really enjoyable. When I started the prologue I wasn’t too sure I was going to be into this but I made myself give it time and I’m glad I did.
The characters in this are so fully fleshed out and relatable (the criminals not so much, relatable, mind you). The level of detail in the house design, RJ (Restorative Justice), and burn recovery was fascinating. The way all of this wove together was handled so well, the writing is superb.
It is a longer read than what I have been accustomed to lately but I found myself very sad when it was over. If you’re looking for a truly touching story don’t hesitate. I would recommend this and will look forward to more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and William Morrow and Custom House for a copy in exchange for a review.
November 9, 2020
I found it difficult to rate this book. Great characters, wonderful themes and fascinating scenes and yet, the plot slowed too much in parts for me to give the full 5 stars.
The theme of forgiveness is obviously huge in this book, between many of the characters, but the main point of interest for me was the process of Restorative Justice. As someone who loves any legal thriller put in front of her, this was incredibly moving for me. For a victim to meet the person convicted of the crime against them, who stands to gain the most out of their meeting? Will someone with true remorse ever be able to forgive themselves or will that only be provided by their victim? How can the two parties ever move on from the crime? This book explored this situation perfectly and it was incredibly moving for me to get an insight into it. I will definitely look out for more Susan Lewis novels if this is what I can expect from her!
The theme of forgiveness is obviously huge in this book, between many of the characters, but the main point of interest for me was the process of Restorative Justice. As someone who loves any legal thriller put in front of her, this was incredibly moving for me. For a victim to meet the person convicted of the crime against them, who stands to gain the most out of their meeting? Will someone with true remorse ever be able to forgive themselves or will that only be provided by their victim? How can the two parties ever move on from the crime? This book explored this situation perfectly and it was incredibly moving for me to get an insight into it. I will definitely look out for more Susan Lewis novels if this is what I can expect from her!
June 8, 2021
It was about a quarter of the book before I really got into this but then found the story of Restorative Justice very interesting and the characters, especially Archie, a prison inmate, fascinating. The letters he wrote to Claudia, the main victim, were so fascinating and wonderfully written. Another good Susan Lewis book.
March 15, 2021
At first this story presented almost like a romantic suspense novel. Then, at about the halfway mark, things took a more serious and unsettling turn...
The overriding theme of the novel is 'restorative justice', something I'm personally not altogether comfortable with. The story made me think, and that is never a bad thing. Although I believe I'm an empathetic person, I cannot imagine the strength it would take to forgive someone who has harmed you and your family in a grievous way. It takes a mature and generous person to truly forgive. The narrative makes the reader aware of just how important it always is to hear and evaluate both side of any conflict.
The story, told with some alternating chapters from the point of view of nineteen year old Archie Coldbrook, were poignant and served to remind us that sometimes, though it is hard to accept, the perpetrator can be a victim as well. Knowing only poverty, crime and corruption his entire life, he was bereft of the opportunities that most of us take for granted.
The narrative moved along at a good pace and kept me engaged throughout. What I first felt was a romantic suspense novel turned into a fusion of domestic thriller and family saga. With a more than satisfying ending, this novel will be sure to have a strong appeal.
Recommended!
The overriding theme of the novel is 'restorative justice', something I'm personally not altogether comfortable with. The story made me think, and that is never a bad thing. Although I believe I'm an empathetic person, I cannot imagine the strength it would take to forgive someone who has harmed you and your family in a grievous way. It takes a mature and generous person to truly forgive. The narrative makes the reader aware of just how important it always is to hear and evaluate both side of any conflict.
The story, told with some alternating chapters from the point of view of nineteen year old Archie Coldbrook, were poignant and served to remind us that sometimes, though it is hard to accept, the perpetrator can be a victim as well. Knowing only poverty, crime and corruption his entire life, he was bereft of the opportunities that most of us take for granted.
The narrative moved along at a good pace and kept me engaged throughout. What I first felt was a romantic suspense novel turned into a fusion of domestic thriller and family saga. With a more than satisfying ending, this novel will be sure to have a strong appeal.
Recommended!
November 20, 2020
This book explores 'forgiveness' very well. I often wonder how some people from high profile criminal cases forgive their attackers/murderers...
What was odd about this story was the cold, and faraway feel of all the characters. None seemed close to my heart, they just felt like strangers even at the end. This may be deliberate considering the themes within the book?
I dont have a favorite character, but I do have favorite chapters... these are the ones of Archie's letters to his mystery receiver. These letters were cleverly crafted, and gave the book the excitement and wonder it needed.
A family suspense drama, with a plot to make you think. Forgiveness is a skill in itself, not sure I could always do the right thing in the same situation as this.
What was odd about this story was the cold, and faraway feel of all the characters. None seemed close to my heart, they just felt like strangers even at the end. This may be deliberate considering the themes within the book?
I dont have a favorite character, but I do have favorite chapters... these are the ones of Archie's letters to his mystery receiver. These letters were cleverly crafted, and gave the book the excitement and wonder it needed.
A family suspense drama, with a plot to make you think. Forgiveness is a skill in itself, not sure I could always do the right thing in the same situation as this.
March 1, 2021
I have enjoyed all of Susan Lewis’s books for a number of years and this one certainly didn’t disappoint. The book opens with 19 year old Archie writing letters in prison to someone who he has wronged. His story unfolds alongside the story of Claudia, her mum Marcy and daughter Jasmine, Claudia has escaped from her abusive husband Marcus, he has been arrested and is on trial for money laundering and fraud and has threatened Claudia saying that he would find her if she left him. Claudia and the rest of her family have escaped to the seaside town of Kesterley and also changed their names. Marcy has found them an apartment and they are helpful that they can enjoy a new life but Claudia is still worried that Marcus will have someone find them. They begin to make friends who are unaware of their real identities but when Marcus’s sister reports them as missing to the police Claudia has to tell them the truth. Then one fateful night an event occurs that has terrible consequences. This book was an amazing read, with well developed characters and I loved how Archie and Claudia’s stories came together. A brilliant read from Susan Lewis.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 22, 2021
Not sure how accurate the Restorative Justice process was in the book, but didn't detract from the premise.
November 3, 2020
Restorative Justice is a concept that can still be considered a little ‘taboo’ even in today’s society. Susan Lewis has taken the practice of Restorative Justice and given it a brilliant airing in a fictional setting to highlight its importance and usefulness in the criminal justice system for both victims and offenders. For that reason, I would highly recommend this book for anyone wishing to explore more about the practice and understand how it works. I would however stress that this is fiction – and has been dramatised to make for an entertaining and gripping read. Susan Lewis does well to highlight this as well, by carefully outlining how the outcomes achieved in this book are rare, in the real world. Susan also explores forgiveness as a very powerful tool in moving forwards as a victim of crime and highlights how it can empower victims as much as help offenders too.
Having worked on a Restorative Justice programme myself in the past, there were a few points within this book that made me cringe. Firstly, Dan seeing someone he knew in the pub and disclosing to Claudia that it was a person on the Restorative Justice programme… That should not happen – such disclosure is a breach of confidentiality – and Dan is portrayed as a strong character and advocate for doing the right thing. So it’s an out of character and careless disclosure too.
Secondly, Maria’s portrayal is a little unfair. Yes she has a learning difficulty or disability – from the way she is described. However misspelling words when she speaks to highlight a speech impediment and difficulty with words is not necessary. You can portray someone’s dialect or way of talking quite easily with a few descriptive words after their speech marks have closed and with a brief background of the character when we first meet them. I’m sure other characters in the book would have had different accents but the Author did not choose to misspell words to indicate their speech.
Without going into spoilers (and the bits that I’ve covered already are clearly outlined in the blurb and/or title of the book) I would have liked to see the serious theme of forgiveness further explored when it came to Claudia and her daughter – but perhaps that’s a whole other book!
Overall, A Susan Lewis book means that you’ll read a carefully researched domestic drama with care and time taken into the finer details to bring you facts just as much as fiction. Aside from the little bits that made me cringe which could have been editing omissions (and personal preference) this was a firm four star read for me and I look forward to seeing what societal concept Susan Lewis tackles next.
Hopefully the published version of this book will include some useful information about Restorative Justice. As a concept and practice victims reading this book might find it hard and at times painful to understand how it works. Therefore I’ve also included some useful links in my blog entry (linked below) for anyone who might be interested in reading more.
https://www.tealeavesandreads.co.uk/f...
Having worked on a Restorative Justice programme myself in the past, there were a few points within this book that made me cringe. Firstly, Dan seeing someone he knew in the pub and disclosing to Claudia that it was a person on the Restorative Justice programme… That should not happen – such disclosure is a breach of confidentiality – and Dan is portrayed as a strong character and advocate for doing the right thing. So it’s an out of character and careless disclosure too.
Secondly, Maria’s portrayal is a little unfair. Yes she has a learning difficulty or disability – from the way she is described. However misspelling words when she speaks to highlight a speech impediment and difficulty with words is not necessary. You can portray someone’s dialect or way of talking quite easily with a few descriptive words after their speech marks have closed and with a brief background of the character when we first meet them. I’m sure other characters in the book would have had different accents but the Author did not choose to misspell words to indicate their speech.
Without going into spoilers (and the bits that I’ve covered already are clearly outlined in the blurb and/or title of the book) I would have liked to see the serious theme of forgiveness further explored when it came to Claudia and her daughter – but perhaps that’s a whole other book!
Overall, A Susan Lewis book means that you’ll read a carefully researched domestic drama with care and time taken into the finer details to bring you facts just as much as fiction. Aside from the little bits that made me cringe which could have been editing omissions (and personal preference) this was a firm four star read for me and I look forward to seeing what societal concept Susan Lewis tackles next.
Hopefully the published version of this book will include some useful information about Restorative Justice. As a concept and practice victims reading this book might find it hard and at times painful to understand how it works. Therefore I’ve also included some useful links in my blog entry (linked below) for anyone who might be interested in reading more.
https://www.tealeavesandreads.co.uk/f...
September 24, 2020
What can I say I was hooked from the very first page such a heartwarming story about a family that had been through so much then have the courage to do what they did was truly amazing and gives you confidence in the human race. Her books get better and better can’t wait for the next one I would definitely recommend this book it was fabulous and want to thank the publisher and Netgalley for letting me review this amazing book,
September 27, 2022
An okay read . Not Susan Lewis’s best to be honest.
April 11, 2021
My introduction to Susan Lewis wasn't what you might call conventional. It came as a nice surprise to find an English-speaking bookshop in Dubrovnik, and an even nicer surprise to see that it that had a reasonable selection of crime fiction novels. I chose Susan's book 'The Girl Who Came Back' having never previously heard of the author.
It wasn't what I had expected, but I liked it very much. The crime, and the subsequent investigation of it take second place to the lives of the characters who are affected by it, both before and after, to the extent that it's more of a love story than crime fiction. But despite this not being my usual genre, I loved that I was transported to the fictional English coastal town of Kesterley-on-Sea, sharing the lives of the main characters and by the end, wanting only the best for them whilst hoping that the perpetrator of the crime in question spent the rest of their lives in a prison cell.
This was in the summer of 2018, but the memory of the book came back to me clearly when I saw 'Forgive Me' on the shelf of my local supermarket. And I was pleasantly surprised to see that the story again takes place in Kesterley-on-Sea, that its beachside pub and restaurant The Mermaid Inn again gets a mention and that we see a bit more of the softly-spoken former police detective Andee Lawrence. If it was me or a member of my family that had been a victim of a serious crime, I'd be happy and relieved to know that she was involved.
But just because the setting and some of the minor characters are familiar, this absolutely does not mean that the book is in effect the same story told all over again. 'Forgive Me' begins with letters written by Archie from his prison cell, with the recipient of the letter and the crime in question as yet unknown. Slowly, we learn why the crime was committed and the effects it has had on the victim, the victim's family and their close friends.
The whole issue is dealt with sensitively and plausibly. I absolutely understood, and believed the characters' actions because they were almost certainly what I would have done if I had been in the respective positions. If it had been me that was the crime victim, I'd probably be willing to meet the criminal, hear their story and perhaps try to forgive, because the only alternative would be for me to go on hating them at no benefit to myself. But if the victim was my mother, my child, my close friend I would want the person who had committed the crime to rot in hell for what they did. But Archie meets his victim, a relationship begins to develop and by the end, the book had well and truly achieved what I suspect was its main objective. Having previously known very little about restorative justice, I was ready to accept that it might work in some instances. And I was also ready to, if not entirely forgive Archie, to at least wish him well.
So, that's the beginning and the end of the book nicely taken care of. The problem for me was that it seemed to lose its way a bit - just a bit - in the middle. Claudia, together with her mother Marcy and daughter Jasmine have changed their names and fled to Kesterley to escape an abusive relationship with Claudia's husband and Jasmine's step-daughter. But while it's nice to read that each of the women start to find happiness in their new lives, I'm afraid I struggled to believe that none of them seemed to have any trouble using only their new names, to not apparently miss any part of their past lives or to blurt out any details about themselves that might compromise their safety.
Perhaps this is because I've recently read two books in which the main theme is witness protection - Angela Marsons' excellent latest novel 'Twisted Lies' and the fabulous 'How to Disappear' by Gillian McAllister - and whilst I admit that this is a very high benchmark to judge by, I have to say that the story here doesn't really come close. The problem, I think is that this part of the story could have been covered in more detail and made a book all by itself, and it just doesn't work as well as a second strand to the main story.
And that's about it, really. A strong start, coupled with a welcome return to a familiar setting. A slight dip in the middle but an ending that rescues it and then some. It was never going to be anything less than a three-star rating but, because I was left not only feeling something for the characters but also more ready to accept the idea of restorative justice than I perhaps would have been before reading the book, I'm more than happy to add that fourth.
It wasn't what I had expected, but I liked it very much. The crime, and the subsequent investigation of it take second place to the lives of the characters who are affected by it, both before and after, to the extent that it's more of a love story than crime fiction. But despite this not being my usual genre, I loved that I was transported to the fictional English coastal town of Kesterley-on-Sea, sharing the lives of the main characters and by the end, wanting only the best for them whilst hoping that the perpetrator of the crime in question spent the rest of their lives in a prison cell.
This was in the summer of 2018, but the memory of the book came back to me clearly when I saw 'Forgive Me' on the shelf of my local supermarket. And I was pleasantly surprised to see that the story again takes place in Kesterley-on-Sea, that its beachside pub and restaurant The Mermaid Inn again gets a mention and that we see a bit more of the softly-spoken former police detective Andee Lawrence. If it was me or a member of my family that had been a victim of a serious crime, I'd be happy and relieved to know that she was involved.
But just because the setting and some of the minor characters are familiar, this absolutely does not mean that the book is in effect the same story told all over again. 'Forgive Me' begins with letters written by Archie from his prison cell, with the recipient of the letter and the crime in question as yet unknown. Slowly, we learn why the crime was committed and the effects it has had on the victim, the victim's family and their close friends.
The whole issue is dealt with sensitively and plausibly. I absolutely understood, and believed the characters' actions because they were almost certainly what I would have done if I had been in the respective positions. If it had been me that was the crime victim, I'd probably be willing to meet the criminal, hear their story and perhaps try to forgive, because the only alternative would be for me to go on hating them at no benefit to myself. But if the victim was my mother, my child, my close friend I would want the person who had committed the crime to rot in hell for what they did. But Archie meets his victim, a relationship begins to develop and by the end, the book had well and truly achieved what I suspect was its main objective. Having previously known very little about restorative justice, I was ready to accept that it might work in some instances. And I was also ready to, if not entirely forgive Archie, to at least wish him well.
So, that's the beginning and the end of the book nicely taken care of. The problem for me was that it seemed to lose its way a bit - just a bit - in the middle. Claudia, together with her mother Marcy and daughter Jasmine have changed their names and fled to Kesterley to escape an abusive relationship with Claudia's husband and Jasmine's step-daughter. But while it's nice to read that each of the women start to find happiness in their new lives, I'm afraid I struggled to believe that none of them seemed to have any trouble using only their new names, to not apparently miss any part of their past lives or to blurt out any details about themselves that might compromise their safety.
Perhaps this is because I've recently read two books in which the main theme is witness protection - Angela Marsons' excellent latest novel 'Twisted Lies' and the fabulous 'How to Disappear' by Gillian McAllister - and whilst I admit that this is a very high benchmark to judge by, I have to say that the story here doesn't really come close. The problem, I think is that this part of the story could have been covered in more detail and made a book all by itself, and it just doesn't work as well as a second strand to the main story.
And that's about it, really. A strong start, coupled with a welcome return to a familiar setting. A slight dip in the middle but an ending that rescues it and then some. It was never going to be anything less than a three-star rating but, because I was left not only feeling something for the characters but also more ready to accept the idea of restorative justice than I perhaps would have been before reading the book, I'm more than happy to add that fourth.
June 4, 2021
I received a copy of this book via a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
This is a well written, highly thought provoking book on a controversial subject - restorative justice. There is an element of domestic emotional abuse as well, however, the story begins in the aftermath of that abuse, as Claudia and her daughter Jasmine are changing their identities and fleeing their abuser (her second husband) while he serves a prison term. The first half of the book focuses on the rebuilding of their lives and the constant fear they are in as they worry about being found. Interspersed within that story are letters, clearly from an inmate, expressing remorse for his actions and giving some background to the life he had prior to imprisonment. It is not made clear what his crime is, nor is it clear who he is writing to - what is clear is that he is working with someone who is encouraging him to work through his emotions and as a way of doing that, has asked him to write these letters.
As the story unfolds, Claudia's fears come true and her whereabouts are discovered. A crime in which only her husband could be behind takes place, and the story really switches gears from that point forward. The focus turns to the individual who committed the crime and discovering whether or not there is a path for the victim's to forgive and the perpetrator to be redeemed.
First, I do have to say that Lewis does an overall decent job with this topic. She doesn't naively make a case for automatic criminal rehabilitation. Through her story she does make it clear within her characters that this process can and could only work for certain individuals and should really only be considered in specific circumstances in which there could be a real benefit to both victim and perpetrator. The situation and circumstance she used within her novel is one I believe is justified and her novel did not come across as criminal justice propaganda. The topic is in line with Bryan Stevenson's book "Just Mercy," but whereas I found that to be highly propagandized, this book was far less so. This is a controversial issue and I think this novel would make a great book club pick and be one worthy of good discussion.
What I did not like about the novel is the segmented aspect of the first half to the second half. The fear of the husband more or less dropped in the second half of the novel, even though it was clear he now knew where they had fled to and it was unlikely his anger would have subsided. Overall though, this is a well done novel that sits with you long after you've finished.
This is a well written, highly thought provoking book on a controversial subject - restorative justice. There is an element of domestic emotional abuse as well, however, the story begins in the aftermath of that abuse, as Claudia and her daughter Jasmine are changing their identities and fleeing their abuser (her second husband) while he serves a prison term. The first half of the book focuses on the rebuilding of their lives and the constant fear they are in as they worry about being found. Interspersed within that story are letters, clearly from an inmate, expressing remorse for his actions and giving some background to the life he had prior to imprisonment. It is not made clear what his crime is, nor is it clear who he is writing to - what is clear is that he is working with someone who is encouraging him to work through his emotions and as a way of doing that, has asked him to write these letters.
As the story unfolds, Claudia's fears come true and her whereabouts are discovered. A crime in which only her husband could be behind takes place, and the story really switches gears from that point forward. The focus turns to the individual who committed the crime and discovering whether or not there is a path for the victim's to forgive and the perpetrator to be redeemed.
First, I do have to say that Lewis does an overall decent job with this topic. She doesn't naively make a case for automatic criminal rehabilitation. Through her story she does make it clear within her characters that this process can and could only work for certain individuals and should really only be considered in specific circumstances in which there could be a real benefit to both victim and perpetrator. The situation and circumstance she used within her novel is one I believe is justified and her novel did not come across as criminal justice propaganda. The topic is in line with Bryan Stevenson's book "Just Mercy," but whereas I found that to be highly propagandized, this book was far less so. This is a controversial issue and I think this novel would make a great book club pick and be one worthy of good discussion.
What I did not like about the novel is the segmented aspect of the first half to the second half. The fear of the husband more or less dropped in the second half of the novel, even though it was clear he now knew where they had fled to and it was unlikely his anger would have subsided. Overall though, this is a well done novel that sits with you long after you've finished.
November 16, 2021
In prison, Archie Colbrook spends his time writing letters. Letters addressed to a person against whom he committed terrible, nameless harm. Archie knows he doesn’t deserve forgiveness. Yes, he didn’t mean to hurt anyone, and sure, he was only following orders. But does that matter? He still did it.
In a small coastal town of Northern England, Claudia Winters hopes to feel safe for the first time in years after fleeing from her abusive husband with her mother and daughter. Their new life is supposed to be a fresh start. But Claudia knows the past won’t stay hidden for long—and she can’t help but feel that someone is watching her. And that something terrible is about to happen.
Linked by one irrevocable act of violence, Archie and Claudia’s lives intertwine. Claudia can’t overlook what Archie did to her family—but is forgiveness the only way to truly move on?
Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis’s latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness.
My Thoughts: Forgive Me opens as a mother, daughter, and granddaughter escape the cruel and abusive treatment of a man, just as he is imprisoned. Their best hope is to start over, out of his reach, long before he is released from confinement. They change their identities and location, hoping to begin anew.
In their new community, they find friends, new jobs, and start over.
But when they feel that someone is following them, the intensity escalates, turning the peaceful existence upside down. Just when they need it, the special project offers the opportunity to heal. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching them transform their lives, and I liked how they accomplished it. A 4.5 star read.
In a small coastal town of Northern England, Claudia Winters hopes to feel safe for the first time in years after fleeing from her abusive husband with her mother and daughter. Their new life is supposed to be a fresh start. But Claudia knows the past won’t stay hidden for long—and she can’t help but feel that someone is watching her. And that something terrible is about to happen.
Linked by one irrevocable act of violence, Archie and Claudia’s lives intertwine. Claudia can’t overlook what Archie did to her family—but is forgiveness the only way to truly move on?
Tense, emotional, and gripping, Susan Lewis’s latest novel is a spellbinding story of family and the power of forgiveness.
My Thoughts: Forgive Me opens as a mother, daughter, and granddaughter escape the cruel and abusive treatment of a man, just as he is imprisoned. Their best hope is to start over, out of his reach, long before he is released from confinement. They change their identities and location, hoping to begin anew.
In their new community, they find friends, new jobs, and start over.
But when they feel that someone is following them, the intensity escalates, turning the peaceful existence upside down. Just when they need it, the special project offers the opportunity to heal. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching them transform their lives, and I liked how they accomplished it. A 4.5 star read.
November 28, 2020
This is my fourth Susan Lewis book and I’ve enjoyed most of them so was looking forward to giving this one a go, and I wasn’t disappointed.
Forgive Me is a gripping psychological family drama that follows a family who are trying to build a new in a town where no one knows them.
Susan Lewis is a very talented author and I really like the way she writes her book. You can really see the amount of time and effort that has gone into the research for her books, and this one is no exception. I really enjoyed the way this book is formatted and written, I liked how the chapters are intermixed with letters from an unknown character, who we learn about as the plot unfolds.
There are some great twists that I enjoyed and wasn’t expecting while at the same time there were a couple that I figured out, and the biggest one was the ending.
Lewis has once again done a great job in crafting well developed characters, that are very relatable and in most cases reliable.
In the past I have found pacing to be a problem in some of her previous books but this time I thought it was much steadier and I enjoyed it.
Forgive Me was definitely an enjoyable read and would definitely recommend to anyone who likes reading about psychological family drama’s.
I would like to thank Rachel Quin at HarperCollins UK for getting in touch and send me a NetGalley eARC in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Forgive Me is a gripping psychological family drama that follows a family who are trying to build a new in a town where no one knows them.
Susan Lewis is a very talented author and I really like the way she writes her book. You can really see the amount of time and effort that has gone into the research for her books, and this one is no exception. I really enjoyed the way this book is formatted and written, I liked how the chapters are intermixed with letters from an unknown character, who we learn about as the plot unfolds.
There are some great twists that I enjoyed and wasn’t expecting while at the same time there were a couple that I figured out, and the biggest one was the ending.
Lewis has once again done a great job in crafting well developed characters, that are very relatable and in most cases reliable.
In the past I have found pacing to be a problem in some of her previous books but this time I thought it was much steadier and I enjoyed it.
Forgive Me was definitely an enjoyable read and would definitely recommend to anyone who likes reading about psychological family drama’s.
I would like to thank Rachel Quin at HarperCollins UK for getting in touch and send me a NetGalley eARC in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 9, 2020
I was delighted to receive an ARC copy of this latest Susan Lewis book as I have read an thoroughly enjoyed many in the past.
The theme of this novel is forgiveness and the use of the restorative justice system to do this.
As this was something that I was not really aware of it was an extremely interesting read and I kept reading to find out more about it and the characters in the book. I wonder if I would have been in the same mindset as Marcy, the victim in this instance? This is a real moral dilemma which I feel was well researched and written.
As usual the characters are well rounded and engaging and the plot expertly written. At the outset we see Claudia, daughter Jasmine and mother Marcy escaping their lives after Claudia’s second husband has revealed himself to be an abuser, money launderer and drug dealer. They have changed their names and fled to another part of the county to restart their lives, in time doing so and beginning again. However the spectre of the past comes back to destroy their future.
What an amazing read. Completely deserves the 5 ⭐️.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The theme of this novel is forgiveness and the use of the restorative justice system to do this.
As this was something that I was not really aware of it was an extremely interesting read and I kept reading to find out more about it and the characters in the book. I wonder if I would have been in the same mindset as Marcy, the victim in this instance? This is a real moral dilemma which I feel was well researched and written.
As usual the characters are well rounded and engaging and the plot expertly written. At the outset we see Claudia, daughter Jasmine and mother Marcy escaping their lives after Claudia’s second husband has revealed himself to be an abuser, money launderer and drug dealer. They have changed their names and fled to another part of the county to restart their lives, in time doing so and beginning again. However the spectre of the past comes back to destroy their future.
What an amazing read. Completely deserves the 5 ⭐️.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
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