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Forbidden  By  cover art

Forbidden

By: Beverly Jenkins
Narrated by: Kim Staunton
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Publisher's summary

USA Today best-selling author Beverly Jenkins returns with the first book in a breathtaking new series set in the Old West.

Rhine Fontaine is building the successful life he's always dreamed of - one that depends upon him passing for white. But for the first time in years, he wishes he could step out from behind the façade. The reason: Eddy Carmichael, the young woman he rescued in the desert. Outspoken, defiant, and beautiful, Eddy tempts Rhine in ways that could cost him everything...and the price seems worth paying.

Eddy owes her life to Rhine, but she won't risk her heart for him. As soon as she's saved enough money from her cooking, she'll leave this Nevada town and move to California. No matter how handsome he is, no matter how fiery the heat between them, Rhine will never be hers. Giving in for just one night might quench this longing. Or it might ignite an affair as reckless and irresistible as it is forbidden....

©2016 Beverly Jenkins (P)2016 HarperCollins Publishers

What listeners say about Forbidden

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  • Overall
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One of the HR best romances

This was my first book by Beverly Jenkins and it was all I had hoped for and more! It was an awesome story, not just because of the love, but because of historical accuracy, and intentional tactfulness in which the author dealt with the time period's racial tension. I loved that world building and carefully developed, yet complex characters she gave us here.

I loved this story. This time period the 1870's can be very emotional for me as I find the topics painful. I always assumed that once black people passed, their lives were carefree and they had achieved that which everyone so desperately yearns for: equality, respect and a fairer opportunity for social mobility. I found that so selfish but then again, I couldn't begrudge anyone their opportunity to be treated with dignity that they already deserved as a human being. But for the first time, the author enlightened me to the obstacles and sacrifices people who Passed made.
I had never considered that before so it was interesting seeing Rhine's inner turmoil.

Rhine was a kind and compassionate person, and was working the best way he knew to change the system from the inside. What a battle it was to do so, and maintain his secret. Now Eddy made him want a different life. Eddy was such a fascinating character. She had inner strength and a tough outer shell. Eddy had been hurt and taken advantage of before, so Rhine had to work hard to gain her trust and ultimately her admiration.

The pace of the story was just right. I never felt bored, nor was I filled with angst. I loved how the love grew and wasn't one of those insta-love stories. Both characters had to let down their armor to experience this and they did! I was just looking forward to the choices the characters had to make and to see how those choices impacted the dreams that Eddy and Rhine had for themselves as individuals. The writing was just smooth as I could picture the story as a movie. This book felt so real and just resonated within me as I reflected on it. This is what I love in HRs, a history lesson and a great love story. I cannot believe this is my first book this author, but it certainly won't be my last.

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21 people found this helpful

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Loved it

The story had me intrigued from the beginning. The historical perspective had ne looking up information about Virginia City. I wanted to hear nore. Of course, I was sad when the story ended. But it left me smiling.

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12 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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I am unable to follow this narrator. Boring

The narrator is down right boring. I am giving up on the book because I can't follow her monotone voice. The story itself may be good but I can't take anymore.

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4 people found this helpful

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BEVERLY JENKINS HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!!

AN ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL STORY... of what it is to be loved, the sacrifice of love and what it would take to hold onto that love.
The strong bonds and relationships between the characters define what true friendships are about.

I applaud the Narrator's voice was perfectly suited to each character...even the dialect was an added bonus!!! Pure talent...a magical,winning combination between Ms. Beverly Jenkins and Ms Kim Staunton.

BRAVO!!! A FAN RIGHT HERE!!!

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4 people found this helpful

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Typical Jenkins' Historical Romance

In the tradition of her many historical romances, Forbidden incorporates elements of Black history with a strong woman and a handsome, resourceful man. Some of the characters referenced are introduced in some of Jenkins' earlier novels. The story and ending are predictable, yet satisfying.

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3 people found this helpful

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Excellent

Beautiful and well researched historical romance. Historical romances have taught me more history than I would like to admit. This era is one I wouldn’t mind learning more about. Will definitely read the rest of this series.

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2 people found this helpful

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    1 out of 5 stars
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Uggghh

So, I stuck it out and I regretted that I wasted my time. The story was unfinished in my mind ( ex. the way Rhyne's sister was introduced at the end) and the characters lack development. I truly don't think you should waste your money on this book.

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2 people found this helpful

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I Love This Book

Thank you Beverly Jenkins for being a Great Writer. Historian and Wonderful story teller.
You are truly an Great American Writer.

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2 people found this helpful

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Awesome story that MIGHT be a bwwm love story>

The cover of this book gives you the impression of a bwwm. BUT, the handsome white gentleman was "passing" What a great ans unique concept. Personally I feel helping the community is MORE improtant than personal happiness. But, this story was about a man finding his true love and telling the truth.. Very romantic but, I felt extremely dangerous in those times.. I still give this story written by Beverly JENKINS 2 thumbs up.. This story had diversity (black, asian and white characters) suspense, drama and crazy a$$ spoiled women. I hope to purchase more audible stories from Beverly Jenkins.. This is worth the price.. kudos

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loved it

Very action packed and romantic, I love books that keep my attention .A will read over

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1 person found this helpful