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leslie_books_and_socks_rock's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this book! And knowing the author, Rachel, as a person and that she’s so kind and encouraging doesn’t sway my opinion at all. She’s a talented author that beautifully blends in real characters, wisdom and a sweet romance.
hephzibah's review against another edition
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
scottishpixie26's review against another edition
4.0
A great story with awesome characters. This story has laughter and tears.
One thing I could have done without was Sam's POV. I think instead we could have had a bit more interaction between Aggie and James- a bit more of them rekindling their romance.
One thing I could have done without was Sam's POV. I think instead we could have had a bit more interaction between Aggie and James- a bit more of them rekindling their romance.
travelerswife4life's review against another edition
5.0
A Life Once Dreamed… Even the name is sigh-worthy…
I think I fell in love with the characters from the first chapter. Both Agnes and James show emotion in tangible ways with strength and love in every move, every decision that they make. It is like a dream. Agnes is like a pillar of strength through every hardship thrown at her she continually relies on God’s guidance and selfless nature. James is described as a tall, dark, and handsome... plus, he is a doctor. I mean with that combination; how can a woman go wrong? But he is so much more than that. His character, patience, and love shine through everything. Both characters grew in this book as if they were growing into themselves. I truly loved theses characters, and not even mentioning the secondary characters… wow. The town, the history, the setting, all rolled together make this a must-read book that needs to make it onto your reading list this fall!
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the characters, the writing style, and for making my heart go soft.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I think I fell in love with the characters from the first chapter. Both Agnes and James show emotion in tangible ways with strength and love in every move, every decision that they make. It is like a dream. Agnes is like a pillar of strength through every hardship thrown at her she continually relies on God’s guidance and selfless nature. James is described as a tall, dark, and handsome... plus, he is a doctor. I mean with that combination; how can a woman go wrong? But he is so much more than that. His character, patience, and love shine through everything. Both characters grew in this book as if they were growing into themselves. I truly loved theses characters, and not even mentioning the secondary characters… wow. The town, the history, the setting, all rolled together make this a must-read book that needs to make it onto your reading list this fall!
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the characters, the writing style, and for making my heart go soft.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
melmo2610's review against another edition
5.0
What a great story! I have come to really love Rachel's stories. I have read all three of them and they are just wonderful solid Historical Christian Fiction stories. I particularly loved the characters in this one. Aggie, James and the town of Penance made for a satisfying read. The story itself was very well done and kept me invested in the characters lives-so much so that I hope we see more of them(and one character in particular!)again. The ending was good and overall I enjoyed the book very much. Looking forward to more historical adventures with Rachel's stories.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
karenthornell's review against another edition
5.0
Such an uplifting, sweet love story about second chances. I learned a lot about the time period while reading about these two falling in love. I loved the ending, was able to tell that Rachel put her whole heart into this book, and closed the book feeling refreshed.
readerturnedwriter's review against another edition
5.0
This was a really sweet Christian romance. I loved the main character's strength and the other plot lines that looked at deeper issues. I was very invested in the outcome and thoroughly enjoyed myself throughout.
sassybookishmama's review against another edition
5.0
Oh wow!! This book is going as one of my favorites this year!! This was my first by Rachel Fordham and now I must own all of them and she needs to write more. The characters are so relatable and she transports you to the town of Penance and you feel like you are there and part of these people's lives.
I really loved Agnes Pratt who leaves her life in New York and the love of her life to become a teacher in the Dakota territory. She does this to protect her intended from being held back because of something she finds out about herself. She makes a life for herself in Penance and perfectly content in being a teacher and denies herself from having any relationships that would end up in marriage as she is not interested in that. She really blossomed from a shy socialite to an outspoken woman who holds back nothing and tries to help everyone.
James loves Aggie and can't quite understand why she ever left him without an explanation. He becomes a doctor and answers the ad to become the doctor in Penance. He is not only wanting to pursue his career but really he is there looking for Aggie.
I love the banter and relationship between Agnes and James! You can tell right away that she is completely in love with him and that he is absolutely smitten with him. The way he teases her is endearing and so sweet. At times it really makes you chuckle. He knows her so very well but he is hurt that she won't confide in him on why she left.
I definitely don't want to spoil the book for you because you really should go and get it but this book deals with the topic of illegitimate children and I thought it was so well done. It truly touches at your heartstrings. I know that stigma is not as prevalent as it was back then but I think as with anything there is still that look we as humans tend to give to the fatherless/motherless and as Christians we need to do a better job at taking care of those that are. Whether its through adoption, fostering or even adopting that family unit as part of yours... its definitely something we should pray and keep in our hearts as a way to help. This story just hit my heart and spoke to me.
The only sad part for me was that there was an epilogue because it closed out the story but I am a greedy reader and I want more! I want to know what happens to some of the other characters like Sam and know more about Hannah, Minnie and overall the whole town of Penance!
I received a copy of this book through the Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I really loved Agnes Pratt who leaves her life in New York and the love of her life to become a teacher in the Dakota territory. She does this to protect her intended from being held back because of something she finds out about herself. She makes a life for herself in Penance and perfectly content in being a teacher and denies herself from having any relationships that would end up in marriage as she is not interested in that. She really blossomed from a shy socialite to an outspoken woman who holds back nothing and tries to help everyone.
James loves Aggie and can't quite understand why she ever left him without an explanation. He becomes a doctor and answers the ad to become the doctor in Penance. He is not only wanting to pursue his career but really he is there looking for Aggie.
I love the banter and relationship between Agnes and James! You can tell right away that she is completely in love with him and that he is absolutely smitten with him. The way he teases her is endearing and so sweet. At times it really makes you chuckle. He knows her so very well but he is hurt that she won't confide in him on why she left.
I definitely don't want to spoil the book for you because you really should go and get it but this book deals with the topic of illegitimate children and I thought it was so well done. It truly touches at your heartstrings. I know that stigma is not as prevalent as it was back then but I think as with anything there is still that look we as humans tend to give to the fatherless/motherless and as Christians we need to do a better job at taking care of those that are. Whether its through adoption, fostering or even adopting that family unit as part of yours... its definitely something we should pray and keep in our hearts as a way to help. This story just hit my heart and spoke to me.
The only sad part for me was that there was an epilogue because it closed out the story but I am a greedy reader and I want more! I want to know what happens to some of the other characters like Sam and know more about Hannah, Minnie and overall the whole town of Penance!
I received a copy of this book through the Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
staceylovestoread's review against another edition
5.0
Rachel Fordham’s third novel, A Life Once Dreamed, is another engaging read I couldn’t put down. With lively characters and great dialogue, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The hard situations faced by some of the characters are handled very skillfully. I have always loved prairie town settings and the author does a wonderful job of bringing this one to life.