David McGoldrick and Lewis McGugan scored Forest's goals before the home side hit back.
The Reds meanwhile are being linked with yet another defensive signing after the capture of Daniel Ayala.
His Norwich City team-mate Elliott Ward is reportedly on Sean O'Driscoll's wanted list.
Ward, a stylish centre-half who is prone to the odd lapse in concentration, knows the Championship well from his time with the Canaries and coventry City.