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A Life Once Dreamed
Six years ago, a shocking secret sent Agnes Pratt running in search of a new start. She found it in Penance, a rugged town of miners and lumberjacks in the Dakota Territory, where she became Miss Aggie, respected schoolteacher and confirmed old maid. But the past has a way of catching up with people.
When childhood friend and former sweetheart James Harris accepts a position as the town doctor, Aggie's pleasantly predictable days suddenly become anything but. James wants to know why Agnes left behind the life they had dreamed of creating for themselves--but he is the one person who can never know.
In the shadows of the Black Hills, can a healing light be shed on the past? Or will the secret Agnes can't seem to outrun destroy her chance at happiness?
Fan-favorite Rachel Fordham brings to life the dusty streets of an 1880s frontier town in this story that affirms where you come from matters far less than where you're going.
When childhood friend and former sweetheart James Harris accepts a position as the town doctor, Aggie's pleasantly predictable days suddenly become anything but. James wants to know why Agnes left behind the life they had dreamed of creating for themselves--but he is the one person who can never know.
In the shadows of the Black Hills, can a healing light be shed on the past? Or will the secret Agnes can't seem to outrun destroy her chance at happiness?
Fan-favorite Rachel Fordham brings to life the dusty streets of an 1880s frontier town in this story that affirms where you come from matters far less than where you're going.
336 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2020
113 people are currently reading
3634 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Fordham
8 books1,341 followersRachel Fordham is the author of The Letter Tree, Where the Road Bends, A Lady in Attendance, A Life Once Dreamed, The Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington. Learn more at
www.rachelfordham.com.
www.rachelfordham.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
August 13, 2020
I absolutely loved this book, so uplifting and such a feel good read. This book will make you happy reading it. A second chance at a romance, will the main characters take it?
Thinking she's doing the right thing to protect him, Agnes moves away from the one she loves and tries to forget him as she starts over in a new town and becomes a teacher.
Well she gets the shock of her life when her past catches up with her and she has some tough decisions to make.
Agnes and James are both very likable characters, both have some issues to work through . These issues bring depth to the story as they were forced to be together at first but this time together they spend it gracefully and calmly taking about their past. Their personal struggles get resolved through understanding,grace and forgiveness.
When a life changing secret is revealed will Agnes run away from the information she now has or will she use this time to change not only herself but others around her for the better?
I can tell the author really put her heart and soul into this book , it's such an encouraging book. I believe it's her best book yet!
Published August 4th 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Thinking she's doing the right thing to protect him, Agnes moves away from the one she loves and tries to forget him as she starts over in a new town and becomes a teacher.
Well she gets the shock of her life when her past catches up with her and she has some tough decisions to make.
Agnes and James are both very likable characters, both have some issues to work through . These issues bring depth to the story as they were forced to be together at first but this time together they spend it gracefully and calmly taking about their past. Their personal struggles get resolved through understanding,grace and forgiveness.
When a life changing secret is revealed will Agnes run away from the information she now has or will she use this time to change not only herself but others around her for the better?
I can tell the author really put her heart and soul into this book , it's such an encouraging book. I believe it's her best book yet!
Published August 4th 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 1, 2022
About this book:
“Six years ago, a shocking secret sent Agnes Pratt running in search of a new start. She found it in Penance, a rugged town of miners and lumberjacks in the Dakota Territory, where she became Miss Aggie, respected schoolteacher and confirmed old maid. But the past has a way of catching up with people.
When childhood friend and former sweetheart James Harris accepts a position as the town doctor, Aggie's pleasantly predictable days suddenly become anything but. James wants to know why Agnes left behind the life they had dreamed of creating for themselves--but he is the one person who can never know.
Can a healing light be shed on the past? Or will the secret Agnes can't seem to outrun destroy her chance at happiness?”
Series: As of now, no, but Sam will be a side character in the author’s 2022 release.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Mentions of God & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of Heaven, being in God’s hands, & peace; Mentions of churches, church going, & hymns; Mentions of miracles; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A mention of a book of sermons;
*Note: A couple mentions of a man looking like a Grecian god.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast it all’, a ‘stupid’, two forms of ‘blast’; A mention of cursing (said, not written); Some eye rolling; Seeing those with scarlet fever, deaths, & pain from it all (semi-detailed); A fire, injuries, & pain (semi-detailed); Hitting someone (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of illnesses & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of fires, injuries, burn victims’ pain, & deaths (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & doctor activities about all of it (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of saloons, drinking, & alcohol (James mentions that there had been some nights he’d longed to join those in the saloons); Mentions of threatening to use the switch on children; Mentions of hateful people & prejudices; Mentions of rumors, gossip, & busybodies; A couple mentions of a brawl causing a fire; A couple mentions of tobacco; A couple mentions of human waste; A couple mentions of vomiting; A couple mentions of hunting & hunters;
*Note: (Not Negative Content, necessarily, but a trigger warning) Mentions of a baby passing away & the family’s pain (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- A fingers kiss, check kisses, two nose kisses, four head/forehead kisses, a not-detailed kiss, two barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Recalling past kisses (one up to semi-detailed, all the rest are barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to be kissed, touched, & embraced (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing, Staring, Blushes, & Winks; Many mentions of illegitimate children (*Major Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*); Mentions of saloon girls/prostitutes (including one who got pregnant (and wasn’t her fault) and that the baby did not make it); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of inappropriate teasing from James towards Aggie (nothing over the top, mentions of sharing a blanket or bed and having babies); Mentions of courting & past relationships; A few mentions of men taking about Aggie’s curves (& Sam puts a stop to it); A couple mentions of a (sick) man sleeping in a single woman’s bed (without her, nothing improper happens); A couple mentions of a bold man trying to put his arm around Agnes; A couple mentions of chaperones; A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a married couple “playing games” when the children are asleep; A mention of a prostitute’s oft-used bed; A mention of passionate love letters; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Helping a woman in labor & her pain and screams (& cursing her husband for getting her “in this fix”, up to semi-detailed); A couple mentions of a young student asking how babies got inside of their mothers & that after he was told, that it didn’t seem so complicated.
-Agnes “Aggie” Pratt, age 24
-James Harris, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Sam
Set in 1880 (Prologue in 1874 and Epilogue years later)
330 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Rachel Fordham has become an author that I really enjoy and make an effort to get her newest book whenever it releases. Life has been a little busy since this one was released last year, but I finally got around to reading it now.
I’ve read Christian Fiction Historical books before that talk about illegitimate children, but none of them have had the compassion and sincerity that “A Life Once Dreamed” had. The past books I’ve read with illegitimate children or grown adults in them was more along the lines of the main character being “oh, that’s wrong to look down on them because of that” but never speaks up about it. Aggie was not that character. She was completely enraged by the unjustness of the hateful words towards those who could not control how they were born. And she spoke about it often.
So while I never really into Aggie and James’ story or romance, I did really like her as a character and James eventually won me over by the end. He acted like a sulking child towards Aggie at first and while I understood why (I’d probably be sulky too), I enjoyed the overall plotline rather than just the romance side.
I think I would rank this as my least favorite book by this author—but! That is not because I didn’t enjoy it—I definitely did—it’s just that I enjoyed her previous two books more. 😉 I’m quite excited about her next book and seeing where it falls in the line up.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“Six years ago, a shocking secret sent Agnes Pratt running in search of a new start. She found it in Penance, a rugged town of miners and lumberjacks in the Dakota Territory, where she became Miss Aggie, respected schoolteacher and confirmed old maid. But the past has a way of catching up with people.
When childhood friend and former sweetheart James Harris accepts a position as the town doctor, Aggie's pleasantly predictable days suddenly become anything but. James wants to know why Agnes left behind the life they had dreamed of creating for themselves--but he is the one person who can never know.
Can a healing light be shed on the past? Or will the secret Agnes can't seem to outrun destroy her chance at happiness?”
Series: As of now, no, but Sam will be a side character in the author’s 2022 release.
Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Mentions of God & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of Heaven, being in God’s hands, & peace; Mentions of churches, church going, & hymns; Mentions of miracles; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A mention of a book of sermons;
*Note: A couple mentions of a man looking like a Grecian god.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast it all’, a ‘stupid’, two forms of ‘blast’; A mention of cursing (said, not written); Some eye rolling; Seeing those with scarlet fever, deaths, & pain from it all (semi-detailed); A fire, injuries, & pain (semi-detailed); Hitting someone (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of illnesses & deaths (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of fires, injuries, burn victims’ pain, & deaths (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & doctor activities about all of it (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of saloons, drinking, & alcohol (James mentions that there had been some nights he’d longed to join those in the saloons); Mentions of threatening to use the switch on children; Mentions of hateful people & prejudices; Mentions of rumors, gossip, & busybodies; A couple mentions of a brawl causing a fire; A couple mentions of tobacco; A couple mentions of human waste; A couple mentions of vomiting; A couple mentions of hunting & hunters;
*Note: (Not Negative Content, necessarily, but a trigger warning) Mentions of a baby passing away & the family’s pain (barely-above-not-detailed).
Sexual Content- A fingers kiss, check kisses, two nose kisses, four head/forehead kisses, a not-detailed kiss, two barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and two semi-detailed kisses; Recalling past kisses (one up to semi-detailed, all the rest are barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to be kissed, touched, & embraced (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing, Staring, Blushes, & Winks; Many mentions of illegitimate children (*Major Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*); Mentions of saloon girls/prostitutes (including one who got pregnant (and wasn’t her fault) and that the baby did not make it); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & touches (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of inappropriate teasing from James towards Aggie (nothing over the top, mentions of sharing a blanket or bed and having babies); Mentions of courting & past relationships; A few mentions of men taking about Aggie’s curves (& Sam puts a stop to it); A couple mentions of a (sick) man sleeping in a single woman’s bed (without her, nothing improper happens); A couple mentions of a bold man trying to put his arm around Agnes; A couple mentions of chaperones; A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a married couple “playing games” when the children are asleep; A mention of a prostitute’s oft-used bed; A mention of passionate love letters; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Helping a woman in labor & her pain and screams (& cursing her husband for getting her “in this fix”, up to semi-detailed); A couple mentions of a young student asking how babies got inside of their mothers & that after he was told, that it didn’t seem so complicated.
-Agnes “Aggie” Pratt, age 24
-James Harris, age 25
P.O.V. switches between them & Sam
Set in 1880 (Prologue in 1874 and Epilogue years later)
330 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
Rachel Fordham has become an author that I really enjoy and make an effort to get her newest book whenever it releases. Life has been a little busy since this one was released last year, but I finally got around to reading it now.
I’ve read Christian Fiction Historical books before that talk about illegitimate children, but none of them have had the compassion and sincerity that “A Life Once Dreamed” had. The past books I’ve read with illegitimate children or grown adults in them was more along the lines of the main character being “oh, that’s wrong to look down on them because of that” but never speaks up about it. Aggie was not that character. She was completely enraged by the unjustness of the hateful words towards those who could not control how they were born. And she spoke about it often.
So while I never really into Aggie and James’ story or romance, I did really like her as a character and James eventually won me over by the end. He acted like a sulking child towards Aggie at first and while I understood why (I’d probably be sulky too), I enjoyed the overall plotline rather than just the romance side.
I think I would rank this as my least favorite book by this author—but! That is not because I didn’t enjoy it—I definitely did—it’s just that I enjoyed her previous two books more. 😉 I’m quite excited about her next book and seeing where it falls in the line up.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
July 24, 2020
Sweet tale set in 1880 Dakota Territory. Agnes Pratt is such a strong and brave young woman to leave city conveniences and the comforts of her home in Buffalo, New York. After learning a devastating secret, she ends her plans to marry her childhood best friend and sweetheart James Harris and heads west. Agnes responds to an ad for a teacher. Believing she was making the best decision for everyone she travels to Penance and builds a life there.
There are so many lovely characters in this novel. Minnie who sees romance around every corner and in every situation. Young Tommy with all his questions. The list goes on. While life is difficult in Penance, the people are heart warming.
My gratitude to publisher Revell for a complimentary copy of A Life Once Dreamed. I wasn't required to post a review and the opinions shared are my own.
There are so many lovely characters in this novel. Minnie who sees romance around every corner and in every situation. Young Tommy with all his questions. The list goes on. While life is difficult in Penance, the people are heart warming.
My gratitude to publisher Revell for a complimentary copy of A Life Once Dreamed. I wasn't required to post a review and the opinions shared are my own.
April 5, 2023
I love this author's writing!
Her setting and townspeople are just the best. She is a pro at writing side characters.
Loved seeing Sam again!
The romance wasn't 5 stars, but I still really enjoyed reading this book!
Recommend! Light faith element, no language and totally clean!
Her setting and townspeople are just the best. She is a pro at writing side characters.
Loved seeing Sam again!
The romance wasn't 5 stars, but I still really enjoyed reading this book!
Recommend! Light faith element, no language and totally clean!
August 9, 2020
A Life Once Dreamed is the first book I've read by Rachel Fordham and I hope it won't be my last - I absolutely loved this book! I didn't know what to expect when I started it, but from the first chapter on I was hooked. I felt for the characters immediately and was super curious what was going on/what caused her to leave. I had my guesses, but in the end it was still a surprise (until certain clues were revealed). ;)
I loved the romance so much! I think it was so special because they were each others first (and only) loves, so I was just hoping for a happy ending for them. The story had some really intense moments, which made it authentic.
All in all, A Life Once Dreamed was a wonderful historical romance and I highly recommend if you enjoy this genre.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I loved the romance so much! I think it was so special because they were each others first (and only) loves, so I was just hoping for a happy ending for them. The story had some really intense moments, which made it authentic.
All in all, A Life Once Dreamed was a wonderful historical romance and I highly recommend if you enjoy this genre.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
August 17, 2020
A Life Once Dreamed was a beautiful and uplifting second chance love story that I enjoyed from the first page to the last! It was the first book that I have read by this author and I am looking forward to reading her other novels.
Aggie and James were characters that I couldn’t help but love. There were secrets and hurt between them, and I felt especially sorry for James as he struggled to find out from Aggie the reason that she left him and their dreams of marriage six years earlier.
I loved that there were so many interesting secondary characters in this book. The author did a great job of creating a town populated with people I came to care for, such as Hannah and her family, Sam, and baby Fred. A few of Aggie’s students brought humor to the pages with their questions about all kinds of things! This story was a delight to read from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Aggie and James were characters that I couldn’t help but love. There were secrets and hurt between them, and I felt especially sorry for James as he struggled to find out from Aggie the reason that she left him and their dreams of marriage six years earlier.
I loved that there were so many interesting secondary characters in this book. The author did a great job of creating a town populated with people I came to care for, such as Hannah and her family, Sam, and baby Fred. A few of Aggie’s students brought humor to the pages with their questions about all kinds of things! This story was a delight to read from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 1, 2021
Another great book by Rachel Fordham! As this one branched out a little from her usual setting and characters, I would highly recommend it to fans of Janette Oke and other pioneer-life books. A Life Once Dreamed was a little more frontiers-ey than her previous books, but I absolutely loved it!
Agnes is so strong, she just doesn't always realize it. She is so sweet and always looking out for the best interest of those around her. She loves her community and she does all she can to help them all.
James is definitely a city doctor, but he must learn to adapt to the rugged life in Penance, lest he lose the trust of the townspeople. Watching his transformation was truly satisfying!
I fell equally in love with all of the secondary characters. I loved watching them band together during trials and love on each other during times of blessings! They were a true community - a spirit I wish were still prevalent in today's society.
My only disappointment was Sam. I really wanted to learn more of his story and see where life takes him. Maybe Rachel Fordham will write a follow-up about him! 😉
Agnes is so strong, she just doesn't always realize it. She is so sweet and always looking out for the best interest of those around her. She loves her community and she does all she can to help them all.
James is definitely a city doctor, but he must learn to adapt to the rugged life in Penance, lest he lose the trust of the townspeople. Watching his transformation was truly satisfying!
I fell equally in love with all of the secondary characters. I loved watching them band together during trials and love on each other during times of blessings! They were a true community - a spirit I wish were still prevalent in today's society.
My only disappointment was Sam. I really wanted to learn more of his story and see where life takes him. Maybe Rachel Fordham will write a follow-up about him! 😉
August 4, 2020
A Life Once Dreamed is a sweet and clean inspirational western. It took me a quick minute to get into it, but once I did I really enjoyed it. The ending is super sweet. I love endings like this one. I recommend to anyone who likes a sweet easy read with a happily ever after. (I hope there is a book for Sam)
*I was given a copy by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
3.5/4 stars
*I was given a copy by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
3.5/4 stars
October 14, 2020
This light hearted read is one that many historical fans will love. Every novel this author puts out is better than the last. It did take me a while to click with the book & while there are many aspects to love, overall I came to realize that it doesn’t quite fit my style of preferred writing.
Although I enjoyed the story & its characters, there is a disconnect with me & the writing that’s hard to verbalize. The dialogue seemed to lack emotional description at times & sentences were almost too short; sometimes it didn’t seem to flow for me. This book is deliciously hallmarky & cheesy, so if that’s your thing you will eat it up! Normally that does not bother me at all, but I confess that there was dialogue that I felt like a man would never say🤣. It is very unusual for me to read dialogue & think you can tell this is written by a female lol, but that happened often. 🤣
The novel’s heroine really made me frustrated in her - what I would call-lack of faith in her childhood love. It bothered me that she was away for 6 YEARS & didn’t tell him why she left when they were engaged. I get that she thought she was doing the right thing but that was so unfair to James. Then, James comes into town basically saying I came for you & then she STILL doesn’t tell him. Like geez, give the guy a break. .. forward to the end of the book- he says he loves her & wants to get married & she then makes him LEAVE to prove his love basically. Don’t you think him waiting for you for 6 years & coming after you was enough? That just kind of irked me; the “you’re giving a lot up for me” got very repetitive.
All that to say, don’t get me wrong, the story was enjoyable.
I LOVED Sam!! He was such a doll! I can’t wait until she writes a book about his love story.💗 The cover of this book is also fabulous. This author is well loved & I enjoy reading her small town love stories. I had a lot of thoughts on this book & just wish I could discuss it with someone so I’m discussing it with myself on this review😂💕
Although I enjoyed the story & its characters, there is a disconnect with me & the writing that’s hard to verbalize. The dialogue seemed to lack emotional description at times & sentences were almost too short; sometimes it didn’t seem to flow for me. This book is deliciously hallmarky & cheesy, so if that’s your thing you will eat it up! Normally that does not bother me at all, but I confess that there was dialogue that I felt like a man would never say🤣. It is very unusual for me to read dialogue & think you can tell this is written by a female lol, but that happened often. 🤣
The novel’s heroine really made me frustrated in her - what I would call-lack of faith in her childhood love. It bothered me that she was away for 6 YEARS & didn’t tell him why she left when they were engaged. I get that she thought she was doing the right thing but that was so unfair to James. Then, James comes into town basically saying I came for you & then she STILL doesn’t tell him. Like geez, give the guy a break. .. forward to the end of the book- he says he loves her & wants to get married & she then makes him LEAVE to prove his love basically. Don’t you think him waiting for you for 6 years & coming after you was enough? That just kind of irked me; the “you’re giving a lot up for me” got very repetitive.
All that to say, don’t get me wrong, the story was enjoyable.
I LOVED Sam!! He was such a doll! I can’t wait until she writes a book about his love story.💗 The cover of this book is also fabulous. This author is well loved & I enjoy reading her small town love stories. I had a lot of thoughts on this book & just wish I could discuss it with someone so I’m discussing it with myself on this review😂💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2020
This was my first book I've read by Rachel Fordham. I love historical romances and this was set in the Dakota Territory near the Blackhills (where my daughter lives and I recently visited so it holds a special place in my heart!) I fell in love with Aggie and James' love story and their community of Penance. I will definitely be reading more by Rachel!
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. This was a heartwarming romance that will draw you right in.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. This was a heartwarming romance that will draw you right in.
August 15, 2023
A sweet & gentle story that reminded me of Love Comes Softly and When Calls the Heart. Not in a cheesy way, but in its western, small town, cute vintage feel with lots of heart. And that cover… ahhh, so gorgeous!
September 26, 2023
The beauty of this book isn’t just the cover (isn’t it gorgeous?😍),it’s what it inside that’s most beautiful. It was my most anticipated book for this year and it didn’t disappoint!! I’m trying to decide how to write a review for this book without fangirling about it the entire time... because I just loved it!
Rachel Fordham has a way with words that instantly draws me into the story. That isn’t something I can say with a lot of books. Her stories are simple— stories about real people with real problems yet they always touch me so profoundly. I become so attached to her characters and they become so real to me, so real that I believe that they are. I feel their pain and their joy and I’m cheering them on the whole way through. I am there in the world she creates. I’m apart of it. I’m apart of the simple, country life that speaks home to my heart and I fall in love with the small towns she writes about. I become so invested in it that it’s really hard to put the book down.
Aggie was a character that I really connected with in different ways. No, I haven’t went through anything like she did but parts of her I definitely did relate to. She was such an amazing character. Her selflessness for those she loves was inspiring and I admired her for it. I felt and sympathized with her so deeply and I just wanted everything to work out for her. Her life threw her a curve that wasn’t easy but she persevered anyways. She didn’t give up but she kept moving forward. I was really inspired and touched by her character.
James.... James was wonderful. He’s loyal, he’s fun, he’s good-looking, he’s unselfish, he’s funny, he’s sweet. I just fell in love with him. It wasn’t just his loyalty to Aggie but also his unselfishness. He put others before himself. There were several times that I just sat back at how amazing he was, risking his own life and doing the hard things so other people could live. That being said, he is not perfect. That’s something I love about Rachel’s books. She doesn’t write characters that are perfect and have no flaws. She writes about people who are flawed and imperfect and have issues but they work against them, they work to be better people. That’s what makes them so relatable and feel so real! Real people do have flaws and issues. James had flaws and things he needed to work on but that makes him all the more lovable.
All of side characters captured my heart too— kindhearted Hannah, overbearing Minnie, adorable Freddie, and sweet Sam. Sam became one of my favorite characters. He’s so kind, unselfish, and understanding despite the hurt he went through. He could have been bitter but he wasn’t. I really felt for him and wanted the best for him. I still hope he gets his happy ending.
The story itself is beautiful and has a beautiful message. There were so many things to think over. What I take from it is that it doesn’t matter where someone comes from, it matters where they are going. Also talking through things with those you love is much better than running from it. But in the end, I just found a message of hope. God has ours lives planned out with purpose, all we have to do is trust Him.
I loved this book. I loved and appreciated how clean it was! I loved the wholesome, faith she weaves throughout. Everything about it captured my heart from page one and it was an absolute joy reading it!
I smiled, I laughed, I got excited, I teared up, I felt all the feels.
I so highly recommend this book, especially for anyone who is looking for a beautiful and clean historical fiction set in a small town with an inspiring message.
*I would like to thank Revell for sending me an ARC in exchange for a honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
2023 reread-
This is still such a sweet book and I enjoyed rereading it so much!💗
Rachel Fordham has a way with words that instantly draws me into the story. That isn’t something I can say with a lot of books. Her stories are simple— stories about real people with real problems yet they always touch me so profoundly. I become so attached to her characters and they become so real to me, so real that I believe that they are. I feel their pain and their joy and I’m cheering them on the whole way through. I am there in the world she creates. I’m apart of it. I’m apart of the simple, country life that speaks home to my heart and I fall in love with the small towns she writes about. I become so invested in it that it’s really hard to put the book down.
Aggie was a character that I really connected with in different ways. No, I haven’t went through anything like she did but parts of her I definitely did relate to. She was such an amazing character. Her selflessness for those she loves was inspiring and I admired her for it. I felt and sympathized with her so deeply and I just wanted everything to work out for her. Her life threw her a curve that wasn’t easy but she persevered anyways. She didn’t give up but she kept moving forward. I was really inspired and touched by her character.
James.... James was wonderful. He’s loyal, he’s fun, he’s good-looking, he’s unselfish, he’s funny, he’s sweet. I just fell in love with him. It wasn’t just his loyalty to Aggie but also his unselfishness. He put others before himself. There were several times that I just sat back at how amazing he was, risking his own life and doing the hard things so other people could live. That being said, he is not perfect. That’s something I love about Rachel’s books. She doesn’t write characters that are perfect and have no flaws. She writes about people who are flawed and imperfect and have issues but they work against them, they work to be better people. That’s what makes them so relatable and feel so real! Real people do have flaws and issues. James had flaws and things he needed to work on but that makes him all the more lovable.
All of side characters captured my heart too— kindhearted Hannah, overbearing Minnie, adorable Freddie, and sweet Sam. Sam became one of my favorite characters. He’s so kind, unselfish, and understanding despite the hurt he went through. He could have been bitter but he wasn’t. I really felt for him and wanted the best for him. I still hope he gets his happy ending.
The story itself is beautiful and has a beautiful message. There were so many things to think over. What I take from it is that it doesn’t matter where someone comes from, it matters where they are going. Also talking through things with those you love is much better than running from it. But in the end, I just found a message of hope. God has ours lives planned out with purpose, all we have to do is trust Him.
I loved this book. I loved and appreciated how clean it was! I loved the wholesome, faith she weaves throughout. Everything about it captured my heart from page one and it was an absolute joy reading it!
I smiled, I laughed, I got excited, I teared up, I felt all the feels.
I so highly recommend this book, especially for anyone who is looking for a beautiful and clean historical fiction set in a small town with an inspiring message.
*I would like to thank Revell for sending me an ARC in exchange for a honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
2023 reread-
This is still such a sweet book and I enjoyed rereading it so much!💗
July 26, 2020
I enjoyed this read, and it kept me up reading for answers.
There are surprise secrets that come to light here, and yes, I wasn't expecting them, but loved how the author wove and meshed this story.
A young woman ends up in Penance ND, and begins teaching and making a life for herself, she has friends and her cat, and no plans to change her status and marry, there have been lots of proposals. Life is relatively good, and she is doing well, until, her next door neighbor from Buffalo NY arrives.
He is now a Doctor, and very much needed, but she wants nothing to do with him, her heart is trying to heal, and we watch how these two go about their lives in this rural area.
God seems to have a hand in bring these two together, if they follow his will, and also a young baby, I love how this is all woven together.
Archaic laws are presented, and wow, I am glad changes have been made, talk about discrimination.
Once you pick this one up you won't be able to put it down.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
There are surprise secrets that come to light here, and yes, I wasn't expecting them, but loved how the author wove and meshed this story.
A young woman ends up in Penance ND, and begins teaching and making a life for herself, she has friends and her cat, and no plans to change her status and marry, there have been lots of proposals. Life is relatively good, and she is doing well, until, her next door neighbor from Buffalo NY arrives.
He is now a Doctor, and very much needed, but she wants nothing to do with him, her heart is trying to heal, and we watch how these two go about their lives in this rural area.
God seems to have a hand in bring these two together, if they follow his will, and also a young baby, I love how this is all woven together.
Archaic laws are presented, and wow, I am glad changes have been made, talk about discrimination.
Once you pick this one up you won't be able to put it down.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
September 26, 2020
Excellent! A most touching story that made me feel all the emotions!!
March 24, 2023
A Life Once Dreamed is about Aggie Pratt running away from her life in Buffalo, New York to the small mining town of Penance, Dakota Territory. After she finds out about the truth about herself, she knows she can’t let James, her childhood friend, and former sweetheart ever know about it. She leaves without even telling him where she is going.
Imagine Aggie's surprise when she discovers that James is a doctor, and he has found her in Penance after six years. He tries without success to find out why Aggie left. She is insistent about not telling him anything, and he admits defeat because he wants to be near her, and so he concedes a setback in finding out her secrets in order to remain her friend. However, he doesn’t give up trying to find out what it is she is keeping from him.
A Life Once Dreamed is a sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a wonderful story of persistence, faith, family, a strong sense of community, and of course love.
My gratitude to Revell and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Imagine Aggie's surprise when she discovers that James is a doctor, and he has found her in Penance after six years. He tries without success to find out why Aggie left. She is insistent about not telling him anything, and he admits defeat because he wants to be near her, and so he concedes a setback in finding out her secrets in order to remain her friend. However, he doesn’t give up trying to find out what it is she is keeping from him.
A Life Once Dreamed is a sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a wonderful story of persistence, faith, family, a strong sense of community, and of course love.
My gratitude to Revell and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 20, 2020
You're all going to love it! Rachel's best book yet!
January 27, 2022
What a love story! (Sigh)
Heartfelt, lovable characters, life changing situations, friendly town… What else would you like for ‘A Life Once Dreamed’? And what a perfect epilogue (sighing again) 😁
I’m so fond of swings, and for a girl that practically “lived” on her swing day and night when little it was such an exceptional element to be in the story. It’s one of my fondest childhood memories and it made me liked the book more so, it transported me to those sweet memories 😍
Let’s talk about characters:
I’ve the highest regard for James’ steadfast love (made me cry so many times 😭) his kindness, PATIENCE! (😀) and determination.
I love Aggie for being such a strong determined woman maybe to the point of stubbornness??? (at times making me feel like giving her a smack on the back of the head 😁) though kindhearted and caring (epidemic) selfless (Freddie).
Sam was such a gentleman.
And so many of the other characters that made Penance an ideal town to be part of, let’s not forget Hannah, Ruby, Minnie, Clint, Tommy, McHenry… 😍
I’d like to share some quotes from the book so you can have a better feeling for it…
“Life is not a cruel joke. There’s purpose to it. I believe it. Even the pain has purpose. And there’s joy to be had.”
“It’s only where you came from. It’s not where you’re going.”
“You’re only seeing what I’m giving up. I see what I’m gaining.”
“But as you ponder what it is you want most in life, remember that most things fade away with time. Only love, pure love, remains in the end.”
Heartfelt, lovable characters, life changing situations, friendly town… What else would you like for ‘A Life Once Dreamed’? And what a perfect epilogue (sighing again) 😁
I’m so fond of swings, and for a girl that practically “lived” on her swing day and night when little it was such an exceptional element to be in the story. It’s one of my fondest childhood memories and it made me liked the book more so, it transported me to those sweet memories 😍
Let’s talk about characters:
I’ve the highest regard for James’ steadfast love (made me cry so many times 😭) his kindness, PATIENCE! (😀) and determination.
I love Aggie for being such a strong determined woman maybe to the point of stubbornness??? (at times making me feel like giving her a smack on the back of the head 😁) though kindhearted and caring (epidemic) selfless (Freddie).
Sam was such a gentleman.
And so many of the other characters that made Penance an ideal town to be part of, let’s not forget Hannah, Ruby, Minnie, Clint, Tommy, McHenry… 😍
I’d like to share some quotes from the book so you can have a better feeling for it…
“Life is not a cruel joke. There’s purpose to it. I believe it. Even the pain has purpose. And there’s joy to be had.”
“It’s only where you came from. It’s not where you’re going.”
“You’re only seeing what I’m giving up. I see what I’m gaining.”
“But as you ponder what it is you want most in life, remember that most things fade away with time. Only love, pure love, remains in the end.”
July 19, 2020
4.5
Rarely do we read about true sacrificial love in this day and age. A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a beautiful story of a secret that has Agnes running from the one she loves because she believes it is what is best for him. She leaves Buffalo and her affluent home and family and heads west to the Dakota Territory to work as a school teacher and makes a new life for herself. There are so many beautiful moments in this story. Agnes is a person of integrity and always tries to do what is right in every situation. After helping to save a baby after the saloon burns down, she fights the cruel stigma of illegitimacy that existed at that time, and when her beloved James shows up as a town doctor, together they fight scarlet fever in their town. But can he handle her secret? Encountering life and death situations has a way of honing in on what is important in life. "She wouldn't lose faith—not now, not ever. Faith was the only way to make any sense of the pain. She clung to the unwavering belief that the good Lord had a plan so big and profound and beautiful that it could explain even the most exquisite pain. That his love could right any wrong. She grasped the reins tighter. She'd do what she could to help God's purposes along—be his instrument if he'd let her."
I highly recommend this beautiful story! You don't want to miss it.
Rarely do we read about true sacrificial love in this day and age. A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a beautiful story of a secret that has Agnes running from the one she loves because she believes it is what is best for him. She leaves Buffalo and her affluent home and family and heads west to the Dakota Territory to work as a school teacher and makes a new life for herself. There are so many beautiful moments in this story. Agnes is a person of integrity and always tries to do what is right in every situation. After helping to save a baby after the saloon burns down, she fights the cruel stigma of illegitimacy that existed at that time, and when her beloved James shows up as a town doctor, together they fight scarlet fever in their town. But can he handle her secret? Encountering life and death situations has a way of honing in on what is important in life. "She wouldn't lose faith—not now, not ever. Faith was the only way to make any sense of the pain. She clung to the unwavering belief that the good Lord had a plan so big and profound and beautiful that it could explain even the most exquisite pain. That his love could right any wrong. She grasped the reins tighter. She'd do what she could to help God's purposes along—be his instrument if he'd let her."
I highly recommend this beautiful story! You don't want to miss it.
June 5, 2024
When I'm looking for a simple, easy to follow, quick to digest read, Rachel Fordham is my go-to and this one did not disappoint! The characters were lovable and the time period was so easily understood in a way few authors can accomplish! She is truly a delightful author!
August 16, 2020
Oh my. Another great book by author Rachel Fordham. Her books just keep getting better.
The characters are strong and well developed, yet have faults and fears just as we do. Fordham has a way of helping us connect to them, and helping us to see that God is always present, working in us. Second chances are available!
You’ll enjoy visiting the town of Penance and getting to know the secondary characters. I hope we see more of them. In the meantime, if you enjoy historical fiction with a light romance then please read this book. You’ll be glad you did.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The characters are strong and well developed, yet have faults and fears just as we do. Fordham has a way of helping us connect to them, and helping us to see that God is always present, working in us. Second chances are available!
You’ll enjoy visiting the town of Penance and getting to know the secondary characters. I hope we see more of them. In the meantime, if you enjoy historical fiction with a light romance then please read this book. You’ll be glad you did.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
July 20, 2020
What a sweet story! James and Agnes have been friends for all of their lives, since they were next door neighbors growing up. As young people, they fell in love and planned to be married. Then, Agnes learned a terrible secret and could not marry James, even though she loved him dearly. So she left. She didn't tell him good bye, or even where she would be going. She certainly didn't tell him why. She moves west to become a teacher, and lives there for six years. A new doctor moves to town, and guess who it is? James has gone to school and has become a doctor. Will he discover her reason for leaving so long ago? Excellently written story I greatly enjoyed!
January 3, 2022
This remarkable adventure is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are okay with the deep topics discussed... This book has the potential to become a favorite!
While it wasn't a personal all-time favorite (I'm still a bigger fan of The Hope of Azure Springs), it is definitely up there on my list.
Keep in mind that this book discusses triggering topics such as death, illegitimate children, and regret. It also describes (pretty detailed) a scene of a woman giving birth. However, that didn't bother me too much considering I have three younger siblings. 😂
Once again, thank you Rachel Fordham for blessing the world with your words. I could feel your passion for children radiating through this entire book... And I LOVED it!
While it wasn't a personal all-time favorite (I'm still a bigger fan of The Hope of Azure Springs), it is definitely up there on my list.
Keep in mind that this book discusses triggering topics such as death, illegitimate children, and regret. It also describes (pretty detailed) a scene of a woman giving birth. However, that didn't bother me too much considering I have three younger siblings. 😂
Once again, thank you Rachel Fordham for blessing the world with your words. I could feel your passion for children radiating through this entire book... And I LOVED it!
July 19, 2020
Rachel Fordham returns to the 1880s frontier in her latest novel, A Life Once Dreamed. This is a historical romance that plunges readers into a setting where disease can wipe out families, birth holds many dangers and morals dictate social standing. This is a story about belonging and acceptance and finding your true family.
Agnes Pratt left Boston six years ago. She left behind the love of her life, but she knew they could never had a future together. Now she is teacher in a small frontier town. When James Harris appears in town as the new doctor, it brings up all their past and Aggie’s hurt. But she refuses to share the secret of why she left him all those years ago. When two disasters chance the course of their lives, Aggie and James will need to decide if what they share is enough to overlook all the obstacles that stand between them.
The setting Fordham creates feels very realistic. Times are hard and facilities basic for the people of Penance. The arrival of a doctor is cause for celebration - for everyone that is, except Aggie. Seeing James again shows her that her feelings haven’t changed, a love that is built on years of friendship and shared adventure, which we readers learn about through reflections, flashbacks and letters. Aggie closely guards her secret, even from readers for a good part of the book. I didn’t guess the direction her secret would take the book until the first disaster. I won’t spoil anything here.
While the connection between Aggie and James is petty undeniable, there is another love interest Aggie considers in the book. I personally much preferred Sam. He is an honest, decent man, simple and without James’ flashy or arrogant judgment or behaviour, but his story is his own (hopefully something we see in a future book) and James goes through growth and learns a great deal.
A Life Once Dreamed has plenty of tense moments and emotions and action that keep the plot moving quickly. Fans of Fordham’s other books will enjoy this story about belonging, family and acceptance.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Agnes Pratt left Boston six years ago. She left behind the love of her life, but she knew they could never had a future together. Now she is teacher in a small frontier town. When James Harris appears in town as the new doctor, it brings up all their past and Aggie’s hurt. But she refuses to share the secret of why she left him all those years ago. When two disasters chance the course of their lives, Aggie and James will need to decide if what they share is enough to overlook all the obstacles that stand between them.
The setting Fordham creates feels very realistic. Times are hard and facilities basic for the people of Penance. The arrival of a doctor is cause for celebration - for everyone that is, except Aggie. Seeing James again shows her that her feelings haven’t changed, a love that is built on years of friendship and shared adventure, which we readers learn about through reflections, flashbacks and letters. Aggie closely guards her secret, even from readers for a good part of the book. I didn’t guess the direction her secret would take the book until the first disaster. I won’t spoil anything here.
While the connection between Aggie and James is petty undeniable, there is another love interest Aggie considers in the book. I personally much preferred Sam. He is an honest, decent man, simple and without James’ flashy or arrogant judgment or behaviour, but his story is his own (hopefully something we see in a future book) and James goes through growth and learns a great deal.
A Life Once Dreamed has plenty of tense moments and emotions and action that keep the plot moving quickly. Fans of Fordham’s other books will enjoy this story about belonging, family and acceptance.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
July 27, 2020
A solid 3 stars.
First, what I liked: despite being a western, the story kept me reading and turning the pages to the end. The setting was well-done and the cast of characters was interesting and well rounded. This was the first book I read by this author and the writing is capable.
Second, what I didn't like: I understood why Agnes left NY, but leaving without saying goodbye to her best friend was beyond me. Once James showed up, I really didn't understand why she kept the reason of her leaving from him. It made no sense in their current setting and social standing to not tell him why, especially once he was clear she was the reason he came.
I also don't understand why the author included Sam's POV. It had no bearing whatsoever since he's not a main character. In fact, his POV is completely expendable and it only slowed down the story.
Fans of the author and western historicals will certainly love this book and its message about one's worth.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
First, what I liked: despite being a western, the story kept me reading and turning the pages to the end. The setting was well-done and the cast of characters was interesting and well rounded. This was the first book I read by this author and the writing is capable.
Second, what I didn't like: I understood why Agnes left NY, but leaving without saying goodbye to her best friend was beyond me. Once James showed up, I really didn't understand why she kept the reason of her leaving from him. It made no sense in their current setting and social standing to not tell him why, especially once he was clear she was the reason he came.
I also don't understand why the author included Sam's POV. It had no bearing whatsoever since he's not a main character. In fact, his POV is completely expendable and it only slowed down the story.
Fans of the author and western historicals will certainly love this book and its message about one's worth.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
August 15, 2020
Agnes starts over in the Dakota Territories, taking a teaching position, away from the Boston society that she grew up in. She blossoms away from the bright lights of the city, but when a face from the past resurfaces, Agnes finds herself at a crossroads. Will the past taint the life she’s made for herself, or be the key to the happiness that’s always been out of reach?
Agnes has learned a lot since leaving her life of privilege behind, making many new friends who come to love and respect her. I loved her empathy, and passion for the children. She grows and is stretched by the new experiences that she faces in Dakota, I loved how she comes into her own, taking pride in the person that she has become.
I admired Sam’s honesty, and how he is willing to lend a hand when needed. James is a skilled doctor, and I loved seeing him find his calling and see the difference that he made in the community. Hannah is a wonderful friend, welcoming Agnes from the very beginning.
An engaging prairie romance of second chances, with compelling characters, and a well-developed small town community. I loved the friendships, relationship dynamics, and character interactions. Heartwarming, with a convincing plotline, I loved how all the pieces came together and how Agnes fell in love with her new home in the Dakotas. This author just keeps getting better and better, this one is my favorite so far, full of heart, great characters, and second chances. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Agnes has learned a lot since leaving her life of privilege behind, making many new friends who come to love and respect her. I loved her empathy, and passion for the children. She grows and is stretched by the new experiences that she faces in Dakota, I loved how she comes into her own, taking pride in the person that she has become.
I admired Sam’s honesty, and how he is willing to lend a hand when needed. James is a skilled doctor, and I loved seeing him find his calling and see the difference that he made in the community. Hannah is a wonderful friend, welcoming Agnes from the very beginning.
An engaging prairie romance of second chances, with compelling characters, and a well-developed small town community. I loved the friendships, relationship dynamics, and character interactions. Heartwarming, with a convincing plotline, I loved how all the pieces came together and how Agnes fell in love with her new home in the Dakotas. This author just keeps getting better and better, this one is my favorite so far, full of heart, great characters, and second chances. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 28, 2020
This was a great story about second chances. I really loved James. I was so happy with the ending to their story! I also loved Sam and hope to read about him sometime. I liked the mention of her other two books. I recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
July 20, 2020
Author Rachel Fordham has written another heart stirring tale in her latest novel, A Life Once Dreamed. Set in the 1880’s frontier this is a Christian historical romance that is simply beautiful. There is so much to love in this inspirational book.
This is the story of Agnes (Aggie) Pratt of Boston. She and her childhood sweetheart, James, were planning to marry when Agnes leaves town because of a secret. Since she does not want James to know anything, she secretly slips away. That was six years ago. Now Agnes is teaching school in the small town of Penance in the Dakota Territory.
I love the style in which author Fordham writes. Her vivid imagination creates the most unique stories, settings, and characters. Even the secondary characters are noteworthy, and I found myself cheering for many of them. I enjoyed the schoolchildren and all of the residents of Penance. Through her deft pen the author gave me many new friends.
The life lessons and faith messages are encouraging in this captivating book. The humor is light but welcomed. There is a sweet yet tormented romance because of social differences, and a sweet fella waiting in the wings. I learned historical information about life and medicine in a frontier town, disease, social standing, and true love. The spiritual message of trusting God, listening to His guidance, His love, and believing that He made you equal to others is encouraging.
I highly recommend this fascinating novel on faith, family, acceptance, belonging, and love to everyone. It grabbed my attention early and kept me invested the entire time. It definitely would make a great book club choice. There is no doubt that it deserves a 5 out of 5 star rating.
I received a copy from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
This is the story of Agnes (Aggie) Pratt of Boston. She and her childhood sweetheart, James, were planning to marry when Agnes leaves town because of a secret. Since she does not want James to know anything, she secretly slips away. That was six years ago. Now Agnes is teaching school in the small town of Penance in the Dakota Territory.
I love the style in which author Fordham writes. Her vivid imagination creates the most unique stories, settings, and characters. Even the secondary characters are noteworthy, and I found myself cheering for many of them. I enjoyed the schoolchildren and all of the residents of Penance. Through her deft pen the author gave me many new friends.
The life lessons and faith messages are encouraging in this captivating book. The humor is light but welcomed. There is a sweet yet tormented romance because of social differences, and a sweet fella waiting in the wings. I learned historical information about life and medicine in a frontier town, disease, social standing, and true love. The spiritual message of trusting God, listening to His guidance, His love, and believing that He made you equal to others is encouraging.
I highly recommend this fascinating novel on faith, family, acceptance, belonging, and love to everyone. It grabbed my attention early and kept me invested the entire time. It definitely would make a great book club choice. There is no doubt that it deserves a 5 out of 5 star rating.
I received a copy from NetGalley, but these are my honest words.
August 12, 2020
A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a charming Christian historical novel set in 1880.
This is a time of exploration and putting down roots. The reader sees this physically and spiritually. The town of Penance is a pioneering settlement. The town grows both physically and its members grow spiritually.
It is also a time when disease is rife. Diseases we can cure today claimed lives. The town is balanced on a knife edge as new practices work side by side with the traditional.
We all have roots. Where we come from does not have to dictate where we are going. Our past is gone. We can all have a different future.
There is the theme of illegitimacy. It is a stigma that follows a child through life but it does not have to be. Every child is a gift from God, no matter what the circumstances of their conception. Hearts and minds need to be educated to see the potential of new lives and not tainted by their parent’s choices.
There is a wonderful community atmosphere throughout the novel. Where there are needs, they are met. It is small town living at its finest.
I absolutely loved A Life Once Dreamed. I could not put it down. It has left me with a wonderful feeling of love and hope.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
This is a time of exploration and putting down roots. The reader sees this physically and spiritually. The town of Penance is a pioneering settlement. The town grows both physically and its members grow spiritually.
It is also a time when disease is rife. Diseases we can cure today claimed lives. The town is balanced on a knife edge as new practices work side by side with the traditional.
We all have roots. Where we come from does not have to dictate where we are going. Our past is gone. We can all have a different future.
There is the theme of illegitimacy. It is a stigma that follows a child through life but it does not have to be. Every child is a gift from God, no matter what the circumstances of their conception. Hearts and minds need to be educated to see the potential of new lives and not tainted by their parent’s choices.
There is a wonderful community atmosphere throughout the novel. Where there are needs, they are met. It is small town living at its finest.
I absolutely loved A Life Once Dreamed. I could not put it down. It has left me with a wonderful feeling of love and hope.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 25, 2020
Once again Fordham has brought us a heartwarming story that I'm sure all reader will love! I know I did!
I love her stories!
Although I feel that this story is special to me. When I say special, what I mean is that what Aggie has gone through as a child, I felt like I was reading my story all over again. I felt Aggie's pain because I understood her. I felt like she was me. I feel like we're kindred spirits.
What I really liked was the love and support the town had for each other. I often think what would happen if we had that for our towns in today's world what that would be like. In some ways, small towns are special.
I grew up in two small towns and it was ok. One was mostly family. And the other, well I sort of miss it. It was all I knew until I moved to Winchester, Ky.
I like Fordham's writing style. Her ability to tell a story that sends us back in time is amazing! I didn't want to return.
Each character has brought their own special gift to the story. My heart went out to Hannah and Joshua. I cried with them as Hannah told her story. Hannah and Joshua in my opinion are a special couple with lots of love to give.
Sam I felt was my friend. We all need a Sam in our lives. I hope that he finds happiness. He deserves it. I will be rooting for him.
Another character that made me smile was Old McHenry lol! His stories reminded me of the ones my grandfather would tell me as I was growing up.
One character that particularly got on my nerves was Minnie. Oh, she meant well but well you know how it is with people like that.
The book was so good that I finished it in one afternoon. It is a book that I hope will continue on because I love being with the characters. I feel that they are my friends.
This was such a good story that I highly recommend it.
My thanks for a complimentary copy of this book. It was a real pleasure to read it.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
I love her stories!
Although I feel that this story is special to me. When I say special, what I mean is that what Aggie has gone through as a child, I felt like I was reading my story all over again. I felt Aggie's pain because I understood her. I felt like she was me. I feel like we're kindred spirits.
What I really liked was the love and support the town had for each other. I often think what would happen if we had that for our towns in today's world what that would be like. In some ways, small towns are special.
I grew up in two small towns and it was ok. One was mostly family. And the other, well I sort of miss it. It was all I knew until I moved to Winchester, Ky.
I like Fordham's writing style. Her ability to tell a story that sends us back in time is amazing! I didn't want to return.
Each character has brought their own special gift to the story. My heart went out to Hannah and Joshua. I cried with them as Hannah told her story. Hannah and Joshua in my opinion are a special couple with lots of love to give.
Sam I felt was my friend. We all need a Sam in our lives. I hope that he finds happiness. He deserves it. I will be rooting for him.
Another character that made me smile was Old McHenry lol! His stories reminded me of the ones my grandfather would tell me as I was growing up.
One character that particularly got on my nerves was Minnie. Oh, she meant well but well you know how it is with people like that.
The book was so good that I finished it in one afternoon. It is a book that I hope will continue on because I love being with the characters. I feel that they are my friends.
This was such a good story that I highly recommend it.
My thanks for a complimentary copy of this book. It was a real pleasure to read it.
I was NOT required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.
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