Forgetting to Remember by M. J. Rose

*** Review ***

A time-traveling historical romance—count me in! M.J. Rose’s Forgetting to Remember promises a journey through time that captivates the heart and soul. As a passionate reader of historical fiction, I eagerly delved into the tale of Jeannine Maycroft, a curator navigating the post-World War II era at London’s esteemed Victoria and Albert Museum. Little did I know that Jeannine’s discovery of a mysterious brooch would lead to a love story that transcends the boundaries of time itself. Rose’s exquisite storytelling and attention to detail swept me away, as I followed Jeannine’s journey through the past and present, and witnessed the blossoming romance between Jeannine and Ashe Lloyd Lewis, a captivating artist from another century. Forgetting to Remember isn’t just a novel—it’s a spellbinding adventure that weaves together history, romance, and magic in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

With each page turn, Rose’s narrative pulled me deeper into the intricate web of Jeannine’s world, where duty and desire collide across the ages. Jeannine’s courage and determination resonated with me, as she grappled with the consequences of her time-traveling escapades while navigating the challenges of her modern-day life. And Ashe Lloyd Lewis, with his artistic brilliance and undeniable charm, became more than just a character—he became a beacon of hope in a world fraught with uncertainty.

Without any doubt, the heart of the story lies in Jeannine’s dual existence, as she navigates the complexities of two vastly different worlds while forging a deep and passionate connection with Ashe Lloyd Lewis, a gifted artist from a bygone era. Rose masterfully intertwines historical detail with elements of magic and romance, drawing readers into a mesmerizing tale of love that transcends the boundaries of time.

What sets Forgetting to Remember apart is its richly drawn characters and lyrical prose, which infuse each page with a sense of wonder and longing. Jeannine emerges as a heroine for the ages—a resilient and determined woman ahead of her time, whose unwavering spirit and boundless curiosity propel her on a journey of self-discovery and love. Ashe, with his artistic brilliance and tender heart, becomes the perfect counterpart to Jeannine, their love story unfolding with all the poignant beauty of a cherished masterpiece.

As a longtime admirer of M.J. Rose’s work, I was immediately drawn into the world she created, where art and history converge in a tapestry of passion and intrigue. Rose’s meticulous research and attention to detail breathe life into each scene, from the hallowed halls of the Victoria and Albert Museum to the bustling streets of Victorian London. The concept of time travel, often fraught with complexities, is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, serving as a catalyst for Jeannine’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

I was delighted by Jeannine’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As the first female Keeper of the Metalworks at the Victoria and Albert Museum, she defies societal expectations and blazes a trail for future generations of women. Her passion for preserving history and her unwavering commitment to protecting her loved ones are testament to the strength of her character.

While the novel’s conclusion is bittersweet, it leaves a lingering sense of hope and possibility—a testament to the enduring power of love to transcend time and space. As a fan of both romance and historical fiction, Forgetting to Remember exceeded my expectations, offering a nuanced and emotionally resonant exploration of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit.

What truly sets Forgetting to Remember apart is Rose’s ability to seamlessly blend historical detail with elements of romance and magic. From the bustling streets of 1940s London to the vibrant art scene of the 19th century, each setting is brought to life with vivid imagery and evocative prose. As I immersed myself in Jeannine and Ashe’s love story, I couldn’t help but be swept away by the sheer beauty of Rose’s storytelling.

As a fan of M.J. Rose’s work, I had high expectations for Forgetting to Remember, and I’m delighted to say that it exceeded them in every way. This is a novel that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page, leaving you yearning for more and eagerly anticipating Rose’s next literary masterpiece. If you’re looking for a captivating read that will transport you to another time and place, look no further than Forgetting to Remember. You won’t be disappointed.