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Forbidden

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After thousands of years imprisoned in the Abyss, the fallen angels known as the Watchers are on the loose. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune have also escaped from prison, but all they want to do is get home to their family. Dark forces conspire against them, and soon they find themselves on a perilous journey to the Other Side, the spiritual realm.

They must battle the Watcher Samyaza and his cohorts to escape, not knowing that the leader of the Watchers, Azazel, has taken control of the real world and subjugated all nations to his will. Soon they must join the few that are left standing against this worldwide evil, those that have not given in, known as the Forbidden.

401 pages, Paperback

Published March 29, 2022

5 people are currently reading
1127 people want to read

About the author

Gina Detwiler

17 books90 followers
Gina Detwiler was planning to be a teacher but switched to writing so she wouldn't have to get up so early in the morning. She is the author of the YA Supernatural FORLORN series and the co-author with Priscilla Shirer of the bestselling middle-grade fantasy series The Prince Warriors. She also wrote the Ultimate Bible Character Guide for LifeWay.

Under the name Gina Miani she wrote the women's novels AVALON and ANTILLIA and the historical novel THE HAMMER OF GOD.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Allem21.
46 reviews12 followers
March 25, 2022
Featured presentation: Forbidden (Forlorn IV) by Gina Detwiler

Love will give you a voice even if your song is forbidden…

Cast: Grace Fortune, a woman who wields Song like a weapon. Jared Lorn, an angel/human hybrid on a mission to protect Earth from the fallen angels called the Watchers.

The Plot: We meet Grace and Jared as they escape imprisonment only to have to enter the spiritual realm, The Other Side to prevent the Watchers to escape. Meanwhile, Jared’s Watcher father, Azazel, has escaped the Abyss and is implementing his plans to capture Earth under his spell. “The Forbidden” are everybody that resists his reign…

The blazing: I love how powerful song is depicted. This is often referred to in the Bible, but it gives a different meaning to it when Song is shown to have healing properties (for half-angel Jared) and can be used as a weapon against demons. The use of Song’s power in The Other Side was exceptional! Azazel also outlaws most music in his new world order, the United Earth, as it provokes rebellion.

A major topic in the second half of the book is ‘safety’ versus ‘freedom’. The majority of people chose to give up their freedom for safety. But of what use is that safety if it turns you into a drone, just towing the party line to stay alive but never living…

One big thing that separates humans from angels is our free will. Grace executes her free will and sacrifices her safety to try and save Jared. Her choice is met with resistance until Elohim (God) steps in and grants it – immediately and without question.

The bright: The narrative shifts between Grace and Jared, both told in the first person. This leaves little wiggle room for anything happening without one of them being present. Ms Detwiler successfully circumvents being narrowed down by introducing various archangels as well as Grace’s guardian angel to fill in. This is done absolutely seamlessly and the change in perspective gives us insight into the role of angels as well as their relationship to humans and God.

We are dropped into the action from the very first scene where we are introduced to Azazel and the Watchers as observed by Gabriel. Even though the pace slows down a bit at times, it never feels like the story is dragging and everything happens for a reason.

The majority of the characters are human, as in flawed, everyday people, which makes their struggles highly relatable. Whether they chose to adhere to the new world order or to defy it, their fears mirror our own.

The Forbidden themselves! I like how they are portrayed and how they operate under dire circumstances.

The bleak: This is the fourth book in the Forlorn series and I was unaware of that fact. Ms Detwiler does an excellent job of filling in any possible gaps, but I would’ve loved to have the full back story prior to reading “Forbidden”. One of the great aspects of any well-written series is that the characters become familiar to you, almost like friends and I missed out on that connection here.

The burned-to-ashes: Nothing.

And then The Plot Thickens into an action-packed tale of survival and what we will risk for that survival. “Forbidden” reads like dystopian urban fantasy with its roots in Christianity instead of magic. This could’ve been a grim tale, but there are many lighter, tender and even humorous moments sprinkled in to balance the darkness. I’ve been wondering about a fantasy book based on the Bible for years and Ms Detwiler has truly delivered!

Studio: Vinspire Publishing

Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
Profile Image for Debby.
100 reviews
January 28, 2024
Definitely not a book you want to read before bedtime! A page turner, cannot put it down until the end type of story. I hope to read more from this author!
Profile Image for Stephanie Mathews.
Author 2 books17 followers
April 28, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall this was a good read. I didn't realize it was part of a series and I don't like reading series out of order, but it was still easy to know what was going on.
Alot of action and fast paced which is always great. Nothing wowed me or anything but still an entertaining read.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,282 reviews29 followers
April 7, 2022
I have had the chance to read other books from the Forlon series and this is another great entry of it.
Once again, Detweiler’s characters are the main thing that highlights since all of them are well-crafted and developed. The characters of Grace and Jared in particular enjoy some good development here.
As regards the plot, I can say that the Watchers, fallen angels and main protagonists in the storyline, are able to sustain the suspense and intrigue necessary to keep the narrative flowing. They have escaped from prison after thousands of years and they are on the loose.
I really enjoyed this book and the good news is that in the future there will be no shortage of romance!
871 reviews28 followers
April 7, 2022
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is latest volume of the Forlorn Series and it accomplished all expectations of the science fiction genre, same as its predecessors. The book is exciting, gripping, and action-packed, and surely readers could not stop reading it. So, I recommend it to everyone who likes the sci-fi and also fantasy genre. It may also appeal to those who enjoy romance. The fact is that this book has achieved a nice balance between those plot elements, as well as a good story execution and well-developed characterization.
All in all, I enjoyed this reading (as well as the whole series) and will be keen to read any more by this author.
16.8k reviews159 followers
April 3, 2022
They are fallen angels and they have finally escaped the abyss. Now all they want is to get back home to their families but it is not going to be so easy. They will face many challenges in their way to get home. Will they get home? Can they stay one step ahead of those who want to stop them? How will they get through it all? See just how they get on.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Píaras Cíonnaoíth.
Author 143 books206 followers
May 18, 2023
A YA Fantasy Novel of Spiritual Warfare and Epic Adventure...

Gina Detwiler's latest book, "Forbidden," the fourth installment in her FORLORN series, is a thrilling young adult fantasy that delves into the subject of spiritual warfare between angels, demons, and humans. The story follows Grace Fortune and Jared Lorn, who has escaped from prison and are on a perilous journey to the spiritual realm, the Other Side, to reunite with their family. But their journey is fraught with danger as they battle against the fallen angels known as the Watchers, led by Azazel, who have taken control of the real world and subjugated all nations to their will.

Detwiler's writing is top-notch, and she excels in blending fiction and fantasy, seamlessly integrating humans with angels in a spiritually oriented-plot. Her characterization is excellent, and she creates relatable and compelling characters like Grace, who is witty and spiritually inclined, and Jared, who is strong and resilient. The plot is imaginative, and the pacing is perfect, with enough action, suspense, and twists to keep the reader engaged until the end.

"Forbidden" is a superb book that will appeal to both young adult and adult readers who love fantasy, spiritual themes, and a good dose of suspense. It's no surprise that the book won the 2023 Christian Indie Book Award for speculative fiction. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Daniel Moreno.
856 reviews16 followers
June 15, 2023
A captivating journey of romance and adventure

"Forbidden" by Gina Detwiler is a captivating and thrilling novel that seamlessly weaves together elements of romance, fantasy, and adventure. Set in a world where angels and demons exist, the story follows the forbidden love between seventeen-year-old high school student Maggie and the fallen angel, Caleb. Detwiler's writing style is engaging, drawing readers into a richly imagined world filled with supernatural beings and the struggles they face. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, and their journey is filled with twists, turns, and heart-wrenching choices.

One of the strengths of "Forbidden" is Detwiler's ability to balance the supernatural elements with relatable human emotions. The themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption are explored with depth and sensitivity. The pacing is well-executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats while maintaining a strong emotional connection to the characters.

Overall, "Forbidden" is a captivating and enthralling read that will appeal to fans of paranormal romance and fantasy. Detwiler's storytelling prowess and memorable characters make this book a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and emotional journey into a world where love defies all boundaries.
17 reviews
May 18, 2023
Forbidden, by Gina Detwiler, is a young adult Christian fantasy novel that focuses on spiritual warfare between angels and demons. Forbidden is the fourth installment in Detwiler’s Forlorn series. Detwiler introduces several characters who have escaped imprisonment, two of which are Grace and Devon. Both want to reunite with their families but must stop the evil from overpowering the world. Grace was even helping a Nephilim, half fallen angel and half human. And many of Detwiler’s characters are dishonest. While the reader is sometimes left confused as to why these characters behave the way they do, the reader knows these characters have somehow broken away from eternal damnation. They are not considered, ‘good guys.’ Detwiler does have a few good characters in this novel, such as archangels doing God’s will.

I would easily give, Forbidden, by Gina Detwiler, a five-star review. Detwiler’s prose is well-written and the story moves at a steady pace. Her narrative captivates the reader and shows true creativity.
Profile Image for Huda.
362 reviews14 followers
May 19, 2023
"FORBIDDEN" takes readers on a thrilling and spiritual journey, where fallen angels, imprisoned for millennia, are now wreaking havoc on Earth. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, alongside their family, strive to return home amidst dark and treacherous forces. Their quest leads them to the Other Side, a spiritual realm where they must confront the Watcher Samyaza and his followers.

Unbeknownst to them, Azazel, the leader of the Watchers, has seized control of the real world, subjugating nations under his tyranny. As the Forbidden few stand against this global evil, Jared and Grace join the battle, facing unimaginable challenges and dangers.

Recipient of the 2023 Christian Indie Book Award for Speculative Fiction, this gripping tale skillfully combines elements of fantasy, spirituality, and suspense. Readers will be captivated by the intricate world-building, compelling characters, and the relentless struggle between good and evil. "FORBIDDEN" is a captivating addition to the genre that will leave readers eager for more.
Profile Image for Conscientious.
484 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2022
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is a fantastic dystopian novel in the Forlorn series. This is a mesmerizing continuation after the events of Forgiven, the abyss has blown up. The fallen angels known as Watchers are on loose. Jared and Grace want nothing but to go to their families. What is stopping them is a perilous journey to the Other Side. Meanwhile, Azazel has taken control of the world and have brought it to knees. The few who are left standing along with Jared and Grace must fight against this widespread evil. Captivating, gripping and exceeded my expectations.

The author doesn't hold back from her creativity which results in such exciting read of series. The characters are well developed and loaded with romance. The narrative holds the suspense throughout, and it holds your attention till the end. I really enjoyed my time with this story, and I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
Profile Image for Yolanda Gomez.
570 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2023
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is a captivating and immersive book that expertly combines forbidden romance and supernatural intrigue. The characters are relatable and the forbidden love between them is tender and intense, pulling at the heartstrings. Detwiler's writing brings the settings to life, seamlessly integrating supernatural elements into the modern world. The book's thrilling plot is full of unexpected twists, which kept me fully engaged throughout. What sets "Forbidden" apart is its exploration of deeper themes such as redemption, sacrifice, and the power of love. It delves into the complexities of morality and the battle between good and evil, and this is something that kept me with thought-provoking questions. With its well-crafted characters, engaging plot, and skillful storytelling, "Forbidden" is a must-read for fans of toxic love stories and captivating paranormal adventures; I loved it.
Profile Image for Nicki .
447 reviews8 followers
June 4, 2022
I was unaware that this was part of an ongoing series or else I might have chosen a different read.

Fallen Angels/Watchers, Nephalim, distopian end-times fiction. A charismatic Christian's fever-dream. Reminiscent of the Left Behind saga of the early 2000s.

Honestly, other than not being familiar with the previous books for context, I would offer this criticism: I found the pacing of the story to be rushed. Some of the characters back stories were inconsistent. I rolled my eyes with every exclamation of "Holden Caulfield." Overall, it could use an editor.

This is marketed as Christian fantasy, but even as a Christian fan of fantasy, I believe this was meant for a much more specific audience. That audience is not me.

I did not purchase this book, but received it in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for ZebraDebra .
402 reviews6 followers
June 14, 2023
With science fiction and fantasy being such massively popular genres these days, it’s nice that there are options like this which will appeal to Christian readers – both young adult and adult. The protagonists, Jared and Grace, team up with a group called “the Forbidden” to stop fallen angels known as the Watchers from taking over the world and spreading their evil. While the tropes Gina Detwiler uses are not new, she packages them well in this thrilling tale of good vs. evil. At the same time, she manages to avoid coming across as preachy and has characters with convincing “shades of grey”.

Readers should note that this is the fourth book in the series, so to get the best value out of the book, it is good to start with book 1. However, it is also possible to read this book as a standalone.
Profile Image for Pearl.
534 reviews8 followers
July 12, 2023
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is such an intriguing, well-written novel that has angels and demons theme. All throughout the book, I was left feeling awed because of the mind-blowing scenes. Written in first POV, the book tackled a story where you cannot stop finding out and following how the everything goes, especially the fact that it covers histories about the important characters. I have not read the first three books of this series but I was still able to catch up with the story because it was described well and the series of events was well-narrated. The characters were well-defined, especially Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune. These characters developed so well in the story and I loved how they both worked together to fight against the conflict around them. It was, as a whole, a pleasant and amazing read!
Profile Image for Rocio.
345 reviews4 followers
August 11, 2023
"Forbidden" by Gina Detwiler is a novel that offers an intriguing blend of fantastical and spiritual elements. The plot of liberated fallen angels and their influence on the earthly realm, coupled with the quest of the main characters, Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, to confront this evil and return home, creates a captivating narrative. The addition of the struggle between good and evil, personified by the watchers and their leader Azazel, adds an element of suspense and tension that kept me enthralled until the end, elevating the level of suspense and mystery, making the plot even more intriguing.
Undoubtedly, it is a captivating literary work, and I recommend it to all lovers of fantasy and spirituality, as well as those who enjoy a narrative that explores the battle between the forces of good and evil in an imaginative context.
Profile Image for Evelyn.
1,285 reviews27 followers
July 1, 2022
What a fascinating and absolutely excellent story!!
The plot is really easy to follow even when it has plenty of twists and fantasy. The main characters are so experienced, lovable and intensely endearing that made the story impossible to put down and without any doubt, unforgettable.
I liked every previous installment written by Gina Detwiler, but this ending is totally unique!
As regards the plot, it is really well developed and it has plenty of surprises.
To conclude, a delightful story, excellent characters and better descriptions all amazingly handled. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all the other in this series I have had the pleasure of reading. It is worth every minute I spent on them.

Profile Image for Marina  Lujan .
938 reviews15 followers
July 26, 2022
The most recent book in the Forlorn Series is “Forbidden” by Gina Detwiler. I really enjoyed it. The characters were well-developed, the plot was intriguing, the pacing was superb, and the ending took me off surprise. I had a very hard time putting this book down and I can't say that about many.

This story has been wonderfully weaved by the author into a masterpiece that deserves the entire attention of the reader. All in all, the book was written with interesting characters and a fascinating plot. It turned out to be pleasantly surprising how engaging and enjoyable it was, and I will definitely suggest it. I'd guess one could finish it in one or two sittings because it's a relatively short read.

Profile Image for Ashley Mitchell.
441 reviews10 followers
August 23, 2022
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is the fourth book in the Forlorn Series, following Grace Fortune and Jared Lorn as they take on angels and demons alike. It’s always stunning to see the character development that Detwiler has written since book 1, when Grace and her friends encountered their first demons and their life didn’t at all resemble the reality of the United Earth in this installment.
Detwiler weaves a complex story together, with the fallen angels running rampant, plague, Earth under the control of Azazel, and only a handful of countries and colonies as allies. As always, Detwiler is a master of cliff-hangers. Although I’m not fond of them, they definitely have pulled me from one installment to the next.
Profile Image for Alfredo R.
603 reviews8 followers
August 26, 2022
A good fantasy reader
Gina Detwiler is the author of “Forbidden”, a fantasy book that entertained me.
The writer tells the story of Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, who are just out of prison
and all they want to do is to be there for their family. Dark forces and difficult missions come across their destiny and make it difficult for them to fulfil their wishes.
Although I liked Detwiler’s writing style, I was not so convinced by the plot. Though
the characters' presentation and description are great, the streams of events that occurred were not so mind blowing.
I will for sure give this author a second chance because I believe she has got much
to say and to share. I give this story three stars.
Profile Image for Haisam Syyed.
194 reviews3 followers
November 23, 2022
Forbidden is a fantasy fiction novel written by Gina Detwiler. It follows two individuals, Jared and Grace who’ve escaped from prison, but unknown to them is that the fallen angels, known as the watchers, have taken over the real world. It’s up to them and a small minority of people who haven’t succumbed to the evil of the watchers. It’s a great novel, the plot is unique and fast-paced which keeps you locked in since there are no real moments where the story gets tedious. The relationship between the two characters is explored adequately and they make for a great duo. The twists and turns within the story make for some really interesting story-telling which the author has relayed perfectly. 5 out of 5 read, definitely recommend.

Profile Image for Chico's Mom.
968 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2023
Gina Detwiler's "Forbidden" is a novel that centres around angels and demons who are living amongst us. When the mentions of angels and demons living amongst us it is a warning to the end of days. As a fan of Gina Detwiler, I would say this book, or rather the Forlorn series, is a great mix of Christian values with a YA appeal. I have read some series resembling the general idea and Gina’s did not disappoint. The story revolves around Grace and Jared, who have escaped imprisonment in the hopes of reuniting with their families. The characters are very well written and the playlist at the end of the book helps set the mood for the reading. If this ever becomes a tv series i would definitely watch it.

Profile Image for Susel.
555 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2023
Forbidden is a Christian fantasy novel and the fourth instalment in the author´s FORLORN series. This amazing book was written by Gina Detwiler, a talented author based in New York.

In this amazing fantasy story, the author managed to weave an intricate plot filled with suspense, emotion and memorable characters.

I think Detwiler's prose is engaging, strongly drawing us readers into her imaginative worlds and keeping them enthralled until the very last page. Her storytelling skills are commendable, and I was marvelled by her timing and delivery in this great story.

I believe that the author has a unique voice and an amazing ability to create vibrant narratives. I highly recommend reading this amazing book!
Profile Image for Juan.
425 reviews5 followers
June 17, 2023
The gripping and exciting book named "Forbidden" transports readers into a world of evil forces, fallen angels, and the unwavering resolve of two characters, Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune. It has the power to transport readers on an amazing journey where the spiritual and physical realms mix.
The author does an excellent job of building suspense right from the start. It’s a satisfying and memorable read for several reasons, such as the compelling investigation of good against evil, the fast-paced action, and the well-developed characters.
Let me say that there are moments when the pacing feels slightly rushed, and certain aspects of the plot could have benefited from further exploration. All in all, it’s a good work to explore!
Profile Image for Carlos Armando.
203 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2023
The Book, Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is a captivating work of fiction that left me spellbound from start to finish. The author's masterful storytelling weaves a tale of forbidden love, mystery, and magical elements that kept me turning the pages eagerly. The well-developed characters are relatable and endearing, making their struggles and triumphs totally engaging. The intricate world-building adds depth to the narrative, making it easy to get lost in the fantastical realm. Detwiler's writing style is both evocative and enchanting, immersing readers in a world of emotions and unpredictable twists. Forbidden is an enthralling read that I wholeheartedly recommend to any fantasy enthusiast seeking a thrilling escape.
Profile Image for Delphia  Von Heeder .
1,753 reviews54 followers
April 16, 2022
Forbidden is Book 4 of the Forlorn Series by Gina Detiviler. This Christian fantasy/thriller is fantastic. The story is an epic tale divided into 4 parts. Grace is with Jared who is a Nephilim, born of a human mother with a fallen angel as a father. I found this end time book to be exciting and although this story is a fantasy and definitely fiction, it stays pretty close to the biblical account of parts of the end time. Grace and Jared go through so much in the story and Jared's father, fallen angel Azazel, is always seeking them. I couldn't out this fast paced book down because I had to know what happened next. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Profile Image for J.F..
Author 14 books125 followers
May 25, 2022
Grace and Jared's incredible story continues from Switzerland to the Spiritual realm to a bizarre future in this epic ride. The author's immense knowledge of scripture and the apocrypha weaves it's way into the ink, offering one fantastical future with eerie similarities to the world today.

*Spoiler Alert* Grace and Jared separate, both delving into deeper danger and stranger worlds, plunging me from one tense moment to another.

If you enjoy nonstop action through a frighteningly believable future riddled with humor, with angels, demons, and lovable characters put to the test, you must read Forbidden.
Profile Image for Dani Savante.
804 reviews24 followers
July 26, 2022
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is a fiction novel that I truly loved. It has been a long time since I read such an entertaining and good fiction adventure book.
The main characters are perfectly defined making the reader engage quickly with them, the story and the plot. It is organized in chapters that mark and establish the pace of the narrative and link one event with the next helping readers to move forward while their expectation to know what happens at the end rises. This is a very particular story, full of strange beings, dark forces and fights against evil.
I recommend it to all those who enjoy action and science fiction. It is a good choice to spend a pleasant time reading.
Profile Image for Mariela Semprini.
153 reviews7 followers
May 19, 2023
Forbidden by Gina Detwiler is a fiction novel that narrates the story of Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune who have just gone out of prison and are searching for their family; what they ignore is that the battle between good and evil continues and The Watchers, who are fallen Angels, want to rule the world.
This fantasy story has a lot of references to the Bible and narrates a thrilling rivalry among angels, demons and humans. Each chapter is more exciting than the other, and full of entertaining dialogues and intriguing characters. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys original avant-garde novels and want to spend a good time reading this original book.
Profile Image for Ivan M.
838 reviews22 followers
May 19, 2023
Forbidden is a fantasy religious book, written by Gina Detwiler. It's not the first book I read by this author; she is one of my favorites when it comes to fantasy and mystery. Her imagination is something worthy of admiration.

This novel has to be read carefully and with attention because the story is complex and filled with different characters and factions. Definitely recommended to people who enjoy a meaningful reading; a book that plays with the artificial constructs of good and evil, making you realize that sometimes things are not just black and white.

Overall, I enjoyed a lot this book. It's a captivating story that entertained me but also made me think about life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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