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Forlorn #3

Forgiven

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Jared Lorn's secret is about to be unleashed.



Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune have defeated enemies both physical and spiritual and have begun to think their battles were over. All they want is to be together, write music and figure out a life together. They finally have a measure of peace.

Until they come face to face with an even more dangerous adversary, a mega-rich entrepreneur who has discovered Jared’s dark secret. Determined to harness and exploit Jared’s “gift” under the guise of saving the world, Darwin Speer pursues them to the ends of the earth, using every tool at his disposal, including the power of a gigantic Machine that could open the Abyss and release the Watchers from their prison. Jared becomes his unwitting accomplice, and Grace must not only save him from the clutches of a genius madman, but attempt to undo the damage he has already done.

From the safety of the “Hobbit Hole” to a medieval castle in Switzerland, the mists of Iceland and the ice caves of Norway, Jared and Grace embark on a mission to stop Speer and his secret society, the Interlaken Group, from unleashing a power they do not understand. In the process they discover another terrifying truth: Jared is not the only one of his kind in the world.



Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune have defeated enemies both physical and spiritual and have begun to think their battles were over. All they want is to be together, write music, and figure out a life together. They finally have a measure of peace.

Until they come face to face with an even more dangerous adversary, a mega-rich entrepreneur who has discovered Jared’s dark secret. Determined to harness and exploit Jared’s “gift” under the guise of saving the world, Darwin Speer pursues them to the ends of the earth, using every tool at his disposal, including the power of a gigantic machine that could open the Abyss and release the Watchers from their prison. Jared becomes his unwitting accomplice, and Grace must not only save him from the clutches of a genius madman but attempt to undo the damage he has already done.

From the safety of the “Hobbit Hole” to a medieval castle in Switzerland, the mists of Iceland, and the ice caves of Norway, Jared and Grace embark on a mission to stop Speer and his secret society, the Interlaken Group, from unleashing a power they do not understand. In the process they discover another terrifying truth: Jared is not the only one of his kind in the world.

297 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2019

4 people are currently reading
859 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 36 reviews
Profile Image for Thushara .
385 reviews102 followers
August 19, 2021
This is the third and final book in the series and I had such a fun ride with the characters! Since its the final book in the series, I cant spoil the book.

So here are the reasons why you should pick this book up
- Its based on Christian Mythology, features angels and demons
- It's binge worthy
- the characters and their friendship is amazing
- a fun adventure
- it interweaves mythology into modern day life and science
- if you love Percy Jackson, you would enjoy this as well!

Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange of an honest review!
Profile Image for Píaras Cíonnaoíth.
Author 143 books206 followers
January 7, 2021
A great fantasy series...

Forgiven by Gina Detwiler is the third book in the Forlon series. It’s a well-written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this supernatural fantasy tale that will guarantee the attention of the reader. A skillfully constructed contemporary fantasy, this book had me turning the pages from beginning to end. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction.

I enjoyed the story, character development, and dialogue. There were plenty of plot twists that I didn’t see coming and that added to the book’s mystique. When I stopped reading to work, I found myself wondering what happened in the book, and replaying parts of the story in my head to see if I could figure more out. It has been a while since I enjoyed a book this much. It’s a well-written fantasy with perfect pacing.

If you enjoy reading fantasy fiction, you'll appreciate Forgiven by Gina Detwiler. It’s a thrilling adventure story of love and lust, mystery and betrayal. ‘From the safety of the “Hobbit Hole” to a medieval castle in Switzerland, the mists of Iceland, and the ice caves of Norway, Jared and Grace embark on a mission to stop Speer and his secret society, the Interlaken Group, from unleashing a power they do not understand. In the process they discover another terrifying truth: Jared is not the only one of his kind in the world.’ Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog).
3,128 reviews92 followers
October 9, 2019
Darkness descends in this thrilling third installment. I really enjoyed this book it was full of lies, love, forgiveness and redemption. I loved reading Jared’s journey it was raw and emotional. Look forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Kristin.
113 reviews8 followers
November 23, 2021
I got caught up reading the description for the book and bought Forgiven. What can I say? The story is fantastical and caught my attention right away. I know it is the 3rd book in the series but my plan is to buy the other two and do a time dive. I love reading the end of books anyways to figure out how characters or the story get to the ending situation. So, that’s absolutely what I did with Forgiven by Gina Detwiler. In the third book, the main characters Jared and Grace are able to finally relax and live the lives they want to; writing music, creating moments with friends and family, and experiencing everyday life together. It’s finally peaceful but it won’t last forever. when a rich villainous entrepreneur finds out Jared’s secret (he’s a Nephilim) and bribes Jared to help him “save the world” with his gifts their world is thrown into chaos once again. Jared falls too and now it is up to Grace to not only save the world but also Jared. Forgiven much like the other books in Forlorn from what I have gathered are YA fantasy with a spiritual/religious feel. The story revolves around angel and human relationships and gave me similar vibes to that of “supernatural” in the religious sense. It’s not too much and not in your face and really makes the story so much more interesting. Detwiler did such a great job bringing old characters, new characters, and the story back to chaos only Grace and Jared can figure out. Each chapter is the viewpoint of Grace’s Guardian Angel, Jared, and Grace which I really love. So, now that I’ve finished the 3rd book, going back for the first two. Such a great book (and series) for anyone!
Profile Image for Phil Bolos.
132 reviews3 followers
November 24, 2021
Forgiven (Forlorn Book 3) by Gina Detwiler continues with the story of Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune. Over the past books in the series, the pair have worked together to face off against demons and a variety of other strange and terrible beings. They have always come out victorious, and now they are ready to move on to as regular of a life as they are able to. Things seem to be heading in that direction until a new monster comes into their world. Darwin Speer is a rich man who has set his sights on gaining as much power as possible. He knows about Jared's powers and is willing to do whatever it takes to harness them and make them into a new way to generate money and power over all. While not of another world, he will be the greatest challenge that Jared and Grace have ever faced off against.
This is a great fantasy series for young readers. Many adults will like this as well, but it seems that the key audience is probably middle of high school readers. The characters are fleshed out well and each book brings a little more of them into focus for the audience. I would have liked to see a little more intense action as I believe that is what the younger readers need to stay fully engaged, but there was enough to keep the narrative moving at a fast pace. I will be following other books by this author in the future.
Profile Image for Guy Wheatley.
Author 8 books19 followers
January 9, 2021
I like to step outside of my preferred genre every now and again to keep my mind open. I’ll never ding a book in a review because it isn’t my main genre. I know the subject when I buy it, so I need to review it with that mind set. But occasionally I run across a book like this that makes stepping out of my comfort zone so rewarding.
First of all, I love the two main characters. Then I’m amazed at how seamlessly author Detwiler interwove science and the supernatural. I wouldn’t have thought it possible.
Then, the antagonist wasn’t some two dimensional, mustache twirling, oil can harry bad guy. This was a complicated individual who believed in what he was doing. He was narcissist enough to be a bad guy, but not over the top evil.
This is part of a series. (Book 3 in fact.) But the author does a fantastic job of giving us relevant information about previous books that this works well as a stand alone. (Only problem is I now what to read the other books.)
If your into Sci-Fi, Supernatural, or Thriller genres, this will be worth your time to read. This is truly a 5 star book.
Profile Image for Aparna Preethi.
Author 1 book56 followers
November 18, 2021
Forgiven (Forlorn Book 3- divided into 56 parts) by Gina Detwiler is a riveting and well-written science fiction book. This is the third and final book in the series of brilliant fantasy set in Switzerland in a fantasy world. Great world-building, character development, and imagery! This book is based on Christian Mythology, features angels and demons, revolves around a fun adventure. The threads of storytelling are expertly woven in this supernatural fantasy tale that will guarantee the attention of the reader. A skillfully constructed contemporary fantasy, this book would keep its readers turning the pages from beginning to end. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction.

There's also a lot of emotions - love, betrayal, loss, self-doubt; both human and supernatural. This book also encompasses most of the things young adults can be going through at this point in their lives, so it's relatable for them on some levels.

Over and above, a recommended book for those who keep interested in fantasy fiction!

Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,823 reviews9 followers
November 15, 2021
Gina Detwiler amazes us again with her third novel in the Forlorn series, Forgiven. Grace faces spiritual and metaphoric demons as she faces the ones that possess her estranged mother, Shannon. She questions her relationship with Jared, knowing it will end one day. Jared goes against his instincts when his friends want him to meet up with a multibillionaire. The rouse was that Darwin Speer wanted Jared's help saving his daughter from a genetic disease. It launched a different avenue through which Speers could exploit Jared. Grace and Jared are in for a battle they didn't see coming and must face demons of all kinds.

I found Forgiven spell-binding as Gina Detwiler skillfully mesmerizes her readers. The spiritual and physical battles entwine, and twists put the characters in more danger as the story progresses. I found this novel fascinating and look forward to reading the next in this series.
Profile Image for Huda.
362 reviews14 followers
November 20, 2021
This book has beautiful and descriptive imagery of the settings and characters. It stands true to the genre of fantasy fiction because of how immersed a reader can get when reading through its plot, which is packed with questions, thrill and adventure. This book is a verbal and visual trip for readers that like reading things that feel 'other worldly' or supernatural. If a secret society, rich entrepreneur and cat and mouse chase sound interesting to you, then give this book a go! The author does not unravel the plot immediately and it is worth the wait. The characters are presented with different emotions or highs and lows to the readers which makes it even more interesting to read. The book carries many religious connotations which I think readers might interpret according to their own subjective views. Overall, the description and characters are enough to whisk you away to a completely different world.
Profile Image for Carolina Solano.
149 reviews6 followers
January 6, 2021
There are many books that I buy for their striking cover, and partly I enjoy it because the excitement for something unknown, for discovering a story that promises interesting sensations; and that's what happened to me with the book Forgiven (Forlorn Book 3) by Gina Detwiler.
It's a science fiction novel but it doesn't immediately bore you with overwhelming descriptions. You step into the plot little by little, and soon you are completely immersed in the story of Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, two people who just want to enjoy their love in a quiet way, but everything changes when a sinister character enters their lives.
There are many possibilities and many universes in this story. The reader will discover them little by little.
The novel is easy to read and the plot moves quickly. It is a fluid read; I even think it could be entertaining for a teenager who does not like to read.
I love these stories that keep you tuned to the end. I recommend it 100%.
Profile Image for Ashley Mitchell.
441 reviews10 followers
November 20, 2021
A book to read under the covers

Gina Detwiler’s Forgiven follows a couple, Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, as they meet their match in the filthy-rich Darwin Speer. I liked that the characters still saw development even at this stage, and Speer is an enemy that we can all rally against.
Forgiven is the kind of fantasy novel that you secretly read under your desk when you should be studying or working, or that you think about during your entire commute. It’s enthralling, creating a strong desire to see it through.
Also, it's strong on its own without its predecessors, which is uncommon of books in general, but especially of fantasy. Not everything is tied to the past, but information is given where needed. But of course, it's a bit more immersive if you touch up on the first two instalments before diving into the third.
Profile Image for Yolanda Gomez.
570 reviews9 followers
March 15, 2024
I love this book; Forgiven is the third book in Gina Detwiler's Forlorn series, where Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, after overcoming numerous adversaries, crave a normal life focused on music and togetherness. Their peace is shattered when Darwin Speer, a wealthy entrepreneur aware of Jared's secret ability, aims to exploit it to potentially open the Abyss, risking global catastrophe.
The narrative took me on a thrilling journey from a cozy "Hobbit Hole" to international locales like a Swiss castle, Icelandic mists, and Norwegian ice caves, as Jared and Grace attempt to foil Speer and the Interlaken Group's plans.
Alongside high-stakes adventure and exploration of moral dilemmas, I think the story deepens into themes of identity and the power of love and unity against evil forces. I recommend it!
Profile Image for Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy.
808 reviews20 followers
March 17, 2024
If you are a fan of fantasy, this book is perfect for you.

"Forgiven" by Gina Detwiler beckons readers into a realm where the mystic and the mundane collide in this amazing book.

One of the most interesting things in this lecture is its seamless fusion of implecable storytelling, labyrinthine plot twists, and boundless world-building that makes you feel inside the story. The book offers vintage settings that not only make you use your imagination but also allow you to connect in the background with the characters.

For the fans of fantasy and adventure alike, Gina offers a tantalizing escape into a realm where the ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary and beyond. With its richly imagined setting and pulse-pounding plot, this novel is sure to leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Forlorn series.
Profile Image for Daniel Moreno.
844 reviews16 followers
March 18, 2024
This book certainly engages readers in a riveting adventure filled with danger, intrigue, and the power of love. Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, having faced both physical and spiritual foes, seek peace. However, their tranquility shatters when a relentless entrepreneur discovers Jared's dark secret. With gripping intensity, Detwiler leads us on a global chase, from the safety of the "Hobbit Hole" to medieval castles and icy caves, as Jared and Grace battle to thwart a madman's sinister plot. As they disentangle mysteries and confront new truths, the depth of their bond is tested like never before. This book is a masterfully design blend of suspense and romance, delivering an unforgettable tale of courage and redemption. I love the way that this book was written generating a thrilling addition.
Profile Image for Valery.
1,501 reviews57 followers
November 11, 2021
Forgiven (Forlorn Book 3) by Gina Detwiler is a riveting and well-written science fiction book. That it has a bit of religion mixed with science fiction is a bit of a twist, making this a unique read. With interesting, three-dimensional characters in Jared Lorn and Grace, a variety of settings that range from Switzerland to Norway, the author is obviously highly creative with a vivid imagination. As part three of a series, the author does a great job of expanding on the premise, while creating a wonderful and quite visual world. The cadence of the writing is solid and infused with inventive ideas, making this an immersive read. It all feels very real on some level though, and that is a reflection of the author's wealth of talent. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,276 reviews29 followers
November 20, 2021
Forgiven is one of those unpredictable stories that keep readers guessing and turning pages. But even though this is the third book in a series, I found that it can be read as a standalone perfectly well since through the chapters we get to know some details about what happened in the preceding instalments.
With a handful of well-received titles already under her belt, the author doesn't disappoint. She unfolds the stories of two main characters faced with difficult circumstances they have already overcome and some others they still need to. Their lives get interwoven in a subtle way, thanks
to the skilful writing style of the author. The storyline is well-paced and at no point it gets tedious. I’ve enjoyed it until the very last word!
Profile Image for Mayra.
613 reviews12 followers
March 15, 2024
Forgiven is a stimulating story that continues the tale of Jared and Grace in the Forlorn series. The narrative is a blending of elements; the supernatural, suspense and sparks of romance make this book a very interesting one. The author, Gina Detwiler, has a one-of-a-kind writing style. She has the amazing ability to weave danger and redemption. I was on the edge of my seat for hours. The descriptions are so well written that I could almost touch every character and feel their emotions clearly. Every time I felt the story was heading north an unexpected twist and turn changed everything. I loved those sudden changes from time to time. From beginning to end, a wonderful story. I will recommend it for sure.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,394 reviews33 followers
January 4, 2021
“Forgiven” is book number 3 in the Forlorn series written by American author Gina Detwiler. In this story we get to know Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune, a couple who has defeated many enemies, but when they thought they were now in peace, Darwin Speer appears in the scene.
What I liked the most was that there are plenty of dialogues throughout the novel, and for me that's a good thing, because it makes the reading more dynamic. In my view, there's great scene-setting, a wealth of characters to become acquainted with, and a very good story to keep track of. There are also plenty of attention-grabbing moments in this page turner book. I´m certainly recommend it.
Profile Image for Ivana S..
546 reviews11 followers
January 5, 2021
As soon as I saw the author’s name, I knew that this book would thrill me, and so it did. “Forgiven” is a sensational, suspense and wonderfeul story, which is extremely well-written and creative. In this novel, I found the same protagonists of “Forlorn”, so I was familiar with the characters.
Something that I really liked about this book is that the action occurs in several places, very different from each other. Also, the pace is thorough and steady, quickening a bit as the plot escalates to a crescendo and then slowing on the way back down.
To conclude, adult readers who enjoy science fiction and dystopian thrillers, like me, would enjoy it the most.
Profile Image for Manu Sanchez.
27 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2021
Detwiller has crafted this sequel to the Forlorn series that continues with Jared Lorn’s endeavors, added to those of Grace Fortune. Together, they non-comfortably surpass an array of life complications.
The storyline is unique, written in such a way that if read aloud it would definitely be a high-sounding type of tale. There are plenty of unexpected plot twists which get mingled with the themes of historical events, social issues and some mythology.
Its tone is never flat, the events unfold in an entertaining way, and besides, Jared is one of the most likable characters of the whole series. All these elements make the tale one that can be read even in one sitting or during a weekend.
Profile Image for Celeste.
995 reviews26 followers
November 22, 2021
Forgiven is the third book in the series Forlorn, created by author Gina Detwiler. In this third instalment, the protagonists are trying to enjoy some peaceful time, but this won’t last. A powerful and wealthy man wants to use Jared’s gift for his own benefit. Grace will have to save Jared and the world in the process.
In this original, imaginative and absorbing book, the author has built through powerful and detailed descriptions a chaotic world where good and evil intermingle. Readers will find themselves on the edge of their seats from the very beginning and until the last page. I really liked this story and I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Agustina Sureda.
606 reviews13 followers
March 11, 2024
Gina Detwiler wrote the Forlon series and Forgiven is the third book of this great fantasy story! The readers follow Jared and Grace embarking on a wild journey following Speer, trying their best to stop an unknown power.

I enjoyed reading this series quite a lot, the characters developed slowly but surely and it makes this plot way more interesting, you experience the change with them. Detwiler has a unique talent when describing scenery and creating vivid scenes that keep the story interesting. From fights to adventure to romantic situations, this book has it all and connects very well. I had a lot of fun reading this series. It's great for expanding your imagination.
Profile Image for Almiria.
756 reviews10 followers
March 12, 2024
Forgiven by Gina Detwiler is book three in the Forlorn series. This is an interesting blend of science fiction and fast-paced thriller with religious elements. Featuring angels, fallen angels, demons and much more, the plot follows the human Grace Fortune and the human-angel hybrid Jared Lorn. Although they have suffered and survived much together already, their trials aren’t over and, in this book, they must face even bigger challenges to both themselves and the world. The writing is concise and fast-paced, and the plot moves quickly, although readers who have not read the first two books may feel like they have some catching up to do. I am giving it four out of five stars.
Profile Image for Margarita Garcia.
1,034 reviews22 followers
March 14, 2024
Great series

''Forgiven'' is the third book in the Forlorn series, where author Gina Detwiler continues to immerse herself in this fantastic world where heaven and hell are closer than we think. Like the other two books in the series, this book is intriguing and maintains the mystery all the time, without leaving aside the love story, that is one of the things I like most about this book. This book is well written and the proof of this is that it engages you from the beginning. Another thing I like about this book is the way the author describes the scenarios, allowing you to have a better image of what is happening. I recommend the series.
Profile Image for Margarita Garcia.
1,034 reviews22 followers
March 14, 2024
''Forgiven'' is the third book in the Forlorn series, where author Gina Detwiler continues to immerse herself in this fantastic world where heaven and hell are closer than we think. Like the other two books in the series, this book is intriguing and maintains the mystery all the time, without leaving aside the love story, that is one of the things I like most about this book. This book is well written and the proof of this is that it engages you from the beginning. Another thing I like about this book is the way the author describes the scenarios, allowing you to have a better image of what is happening. I recommend the series.
Profile Image for Candice Barbara.
168 reviews3 followers
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March 19, 2024
Forgiven. Will this book have to do with forgiving another? As I read this book, I was surprised I could follow the book even though it is book 3 in a series. I love how this book begins with a scripture verse. This led to wanting to read. The chapters titles will help you understand what is happening in the book. For instance, the chapter labeled Mars shares with the reader where the character will be living. Because this is book three you are deep into the story. Sometimes its just fun to just be in the middle of a story and see where you land. I’m glad this book was written for those who have adventurous hearts.
871 reviews28 followers
January 4, 2021
Gina Detwiler is a resourceful author, who has not only written the wonderful Forlorn series, but she has also created a playlist for each book, which guided her through the writing. And this third book “Forgiven” is not the exception for her originality.

This novel is unique and engaging. It is a great mix of romance, adventure, thriller and drama. The story of Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune facing their apocalyptic destiny was, for me, completely hard to put down.

“Forgiven” is easily one of the most engaging books in the Young Adult fiction genre I have found. With well-developed characters and a fascinating plot surrounding the phenomenon of spiritual fighting between angels and demons, it will appeal to readers across genres.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
January 2, 2021
Jared Lorn and Grace Fortune were looking forward to a quiet life together creating music and enjoying each other’s company. Their peaceful life has to be put on hold when an Entrepreneur named Darwin Speer discovers Jared’s secret. Darwin attempts to exploit this secret for his own gains. Jared and Grace flee across the world, only steps ahead of Darwin until he captures Jared and it is up to Grace to stop them both and undo the harm already done.
I don’t know if it is quite a young adult book, maybe for the older end of the spectrum? It got pretty complicated at spots and unless the teenager is religious, I think they can be lost with the areas where praying and scripture get front stage attention. It is a good adventure book, with a HEA, which can make up for some of the other issues.
Profile Image for The Reviewera.
336 reviews19 followers
January 22, 2021
Amazingly woven like an interesting spell. I didn't think this book was going to be this good. It was , as you might expect , engaging , a total different piece of art from every aspect.
It sets a very high bar for whatever he does that comes next.
Must Read
Profile Image for Nikita.
320 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2021
Five Stars

One of the best books I have read this month!
Highly recommend it! I only leave positive feedback and reviews when I love the book.
Feel free to ask anything regarding this book.
A must read for sure.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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