She needs to learn how to flirt. He needs to forget she exists. Then she asks him for help finding a husband… What could possibly go wrong?Charlotte Westin has always been more comfortable in a saddle than a ballroom. That wouldn’t be a problem, except her father owns the largest ranch in Texas—and he insists she marry a wealthy city-slicker worthy of a cattle baron’s daughter. There might be … daughter. There might be someone out there who’d love her for who she is instead of her money, but she’s been fooled by a sweet talker before, and her family is still suffering because of it.
With an old friend-turned-enemy returning to town and cattle rustlers running roughshod over the county, Sheriff Daniel Harding knows the last thing he should be thinking about is a woman… especially the one woman he’ll never be able to marry. Then Charlotte Westin asks for his help, and Daniel can’t refuse. Until he finds out exactly what she wants…
When Charlotte comes to Daniel with a plan to find herself a husband, Daniel is forced to face his feelings for her—as well as some past mistakes of his own. But as the rustlers grow more dangerous, Charlotte’s father takes drastic steps to engage her to a man she doesn’t love. And Charlotte and Daniel soon find themselves caught between the burdens from their pasts and others’ expectations. Will they let their past choices ruin their dreams? Or will Charlotte and Daniel embrace God’s forgiveness and forge a happy future for themselves?
From jagged mountains and green river valleys, to cattle ranches and vivid sunsets, Tomorrow’s Shining Dream offers a meaningful story about simpler times, sincere faith, and unfailing love.
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Tomorrow’s Shining Dream by Naomi Rawlings is another home run! I genuinely believe it is impossible for Ms. Rawlings to write a bad story. If you have never read one of her books, I implore you to do so ASAP! There is so much to love about Tomorrow’s Shining Dream. The plot is highly engaging. I’m a huge fan of Westerns and this one is perfect. The setting is gorgeous. The characters are dynamic and relatable. The romance is superb with just enough tension between the hero and heroine to keep the reader turning pages well into the night. And, the themes discussed are timely. Tomorrow’s Shining Dream is a must-read novel!
A lot happens in a lifetime. Many times a lot of bad happens. Generally speaking, people react to the bad stuff in one of two ways — they accept the moment for what it is (a tribulation as mentioned by Jesus in John 16:33) and cling to Jesus tightly, or they get mad at God and make statements like, “God doesn’t love me” or “God has stopped listening to me.” Daniel Harding is the uber-handsome, super loyal, big-hearted hero in Tomorrow’s Shining Dream. As far as heroes go, Daniel is pretty swoony and wonderful, but he does have an Achilles heal — he’s stubborn about forgiving others. He has no real issue forgiving others for little, insignificant things, but when it comes to something HUGE like the maiming and disabling of his father, Daniel isn’t easily able to forgive the man he believes is responsible for damaging his dad. Does Daniel’s father have an issue forgiving the man Daniel struggles with? Nope, not for one second. In one of the best moments in this novel, Daniel’s exceptionally wise father reminds Daniel that ALL things that happen in our lives are approved by God. God is the BOSS always. Yes, Daniel’s father can no longer walk, which means he can no longer be the town’s Sheriff. Life had to change for him in a big way, but he’s alive. God could have taken him to Heaven and left Daniel’s family fatherless and husbandless … but He didn’t. What I loved so much about this moment is the perspective shift. We humans get SO caught up in the negative. I would bet that half the things we get so angry over, those things we refuse to forgive, have positive sides that God is begging us to see. Daniel is rightly put in his place by his very loving earthly father and realizes that holding back forgiveness has really done nothing but hurt himself and ruined a friendship. Personally, I feel that Daniel’s father was gently scolding me, too! I don’t have any forgiveness issues right now that I know of, but I do have some things in my life I need to see from the positive light rather than the negative. What about you, dear reader? Do you have a perspective shift that needs to take place, too?
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream is such a lovely story of forgiveness and grace and patience. It’s definitely a story that will stick with me long after the final page has been turned. If you are a fan of Christian Western Romances that are well written, highly engaging, and filled with timely themes and messages, then Tomorrow’s Shining Dream is the novel for you!
***Recommendation*** Tomorrow’s Shining Dream can easily be read as a standalone novel; however, I personally feel that to get the best reading experience you should read Tomorrow’s First Light first.
I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Naomi Rawlings, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book was incredible!! I thoroughly enjoyed every page. The second book in the Texas Promise series, you could read it as a stand alone, but you’ll get more out of it if you read the first book, Tomorrow’s First Light, which is equally as good. In this series, Author Naomi Rawlings continues with some of the characters set in her Michigan based books, The Eagle Harbor Series, which I highly recommend.
The characters that Rawlings has developed are so true to life. They deal with the same things we do; shame, guilt, anger, unforgiveness, joy, and love of family. Charlotte’s past has caused great shame. Daniel’s past has caused anger and low self esteem. Yet through it all we see the thread of forgiveness and the need to trust God.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream offers something for everyone who enjoys historical fiction. Horses and bad guys. Heroes and damsels in distress. Sweet romance. Beautiful desert landscapes. I certainly hope we see more from this cast of characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream by Naomi Rawlings was an Inspiring Indepth Story About Trust, Forgiveness, Love, Faith, and being in the will of God.
Charlotte Westin, the h, was a strong independent women when it came to horses, but she was unsure of herself when it came to relationships.
Sheriff Daniel Harding, the H, was a solid lawman, with an impeccable work ethic, and the resolve to get the job done.
It was clear that Charlotte, and Daniel loved each other, but I wondered if they were going to be able to find their happy ever after.
I’m pleased that everything worked out for their good.
Naomi Rawlings knows how to deliver a charming western historical romance complete with lots of suspense and adventure. The main characters are realistic and endearing, and the stellar cast of secondary characters adds to the enjoyment of the tale. Charlotte Westin is a lovable heroine who is quite independent but lacks some of the social graces she thinks she needs to win a husband. Sheriff Daniel Harding has loved Charlotte for years but thinks he’s not good enough for her. When she asks him for flirting lessons, he reluctantly agrees to help her.
Themes of forgiveness of self and others, the importance of love in a relationship, and the worth of each person, give the story added depth and dimension. This story is the second book in Rawlings’ Texas Promise series, but it can be read alone. There are appearances of characters from the first book and a few loose ends that I feel will probably be tied up in the next book. I’m looking forward to another adventure from this author soon.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own
This is one of the best Christian historical fiction novels I’ve read this year! The faith walked out in the lives of the characters was inspiring, as was a demonstration of one of my favorite verses. The majestic Texas setting is described beautifully, and the time period one that I enjoy the most. I liked the characters, especially Charlotte, a woman who knows what she wants out of life, and Daniel, the local sheriff. There is even a mystery, making the novel even better!
Charlotte, nicknamed Charlie, isn’t quite the lady that her daddy, owner of the biggest ranch in the area, hoped she would be. She is an excellent horsewoman who spends most of her time either with her Arabian horses she plans to breed or working around the ranch. At this year’s summer party and 4th of July ball, her father wants her to impress someone new, this time Andrew, whose father has a smaller ranch and a large interest in the Southern Pacific Railroad. Charlie isn’t comfortable trying to be prim and proper in social settings, but as she promised her father, she will make an effort with Andrew.
Daniel is the sheriff and is facing a huge challenge. Someone has been rustling cattle. No matter what he and his deputies do, they have only been able to find a couple of the bad guys who refused to give up their boss. It has been weeks since he sent for the Texas Rangers, but hasn’t heard a word back. The local ranchers are upset about losing so many cattle. Daniel and Charlie have known each other since they were children. His sister Anna Mae is Charlie’s best friend, which Charlie’s father doesn’t understand at all. Their father doesn’t have the social standing or wealth he does.
Charlie doesn’t care about wealth and tried to find a husband on her own so she wouldn’t have to have to settle for someone of her father’s choosing. Her father and Andrew’s want them to form a union to ensure the future of both families. Anna Mae volunteers Daniel to help Charlie feel comfortable around men without spilling, falling, or stepping on their feet when dancing. Daniel knows Charlie’s father would never approve of him, yet he has to confront his growing feelings for her. Unknown to him, she has to do the same for the feelings she has for Daniel. In the meantime, one of Daniel’s former friends arrives with the men he is in charge of with the Rangers. Not only is Daniel struggling to try to find the rustlers, he is also dealing with Cain, who wants to take over the investigation.
This novel captured my attention from the beginning, and it was hard to put down! Family secrets and danger led to difficult choices. I enjoyed seeing the characters again from Tomorrow’s First Light, the first in series. This can be read as a standalone, but both novels are excellent! The faith struggles of both Daniel and Charlie are depicted beautifully, as is the demonstration of one of my favorite verses at a time when I really needed it. I highly recommend this novel to women of all ages who enjoy well-written Christian historical fiction set in Texas in the late 1800’s, with delightful characters, mystery, and God’s grace shining through.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, a review was not required.
As with all of the books this author has written, I loved this book. I’m so glad I read it and cant wait for another one.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream by Naomi Rawlings
Texas Promise Series Book Two
Sheriff Daniel Harding realized three years ago that his friend’s little sister was now a beautiful young woman. But he held the secret of how he felt about her close to himself. After all, he’s just a sheriff living with his parents and she was used to luxury. He could never give her what she was used to.
Charlotte Westin had made a terrible error in judgment. Falling for false praise by someone who was using her to steal her family’s cattle. So when her father chooses the man she will marry…she agrees.
Five young men had made a pact many years ago. Three wanted to be married before they were thirty. Two thought maybe when they were older…if ever. Great storyline and characters. A series that stuck with me from book one and has me looking forward to the rest of them.
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I loved Daniel and Charlotte’s story. Both had some challenges to overcome, domineering father, not feeling good enough for the other, etc. I kept thinking “come on you two, open up to each other and get together”. I’m anxiously waiting for the next book in this series.
Her dream is to breed horses. Her fathers is to have her marry a man of wealth that can maintain her in the wealth she is used to. And so he finds her a husband . . . but is that what she wants? Is that her dream? Is that what God wants for her? To leave all she knows and loves and move to a city? And what about the sheriff??? This books is a great love story that adds lots of danger and forgiveness where needed!!!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
5 Stars for Naomi Rawlings newest book, Tomorrow’s Shining Dream (book 2 in the Texas Promise series)! Such as great story with wonderful characters. Charlotte is a klutz when she isn’t in her comfort zone (ranch life and on a horse). Her father is pushing her to marry soon and she doesn’t know how she can chose a husband after a past error in judgement. So she asks her friend’s brother to teach her how to flirt and choose a husband. Sheriff Daniel Harding agrees to help even though he doesn’t want to because he has feelings for Charlotte. A fun story with laughs, danger, cattle rustling and romance.
Ms Rawlings keeps you turning the pages to discover what is going to happen next. Love her writing style. It is so descriptive and entertaining. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.
Loved this book with characters flawed by their past experiences and/or lack of forgiveness for themselves or others. Well written, attention to detail and loved all the main and minor characters. Hope there are more books to learn more about them.
Who will Charlotte marry? Her first boyfriend and cattle rustler, the man her father has chosen or maybe her longtime friend the Sheriff? Loved how Charlotte finally chose her own ending! I was gifted a copy, no review was required. My review is voluntary.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream, Naomi Rawlings’ latest in her Texas Promise series, tells the story of Daniel, the local sheriff, and Charlotte, the daughter of a cattle baron. Cattle are being rustled by the hundreds, and everyone is looking at Daniel to catch the rustlers and bring back the cattle. Try as he might, Daniel can’t find a single clue, making himself and others doubt his ability as sheriff. Charlotte is being pushed into a marriage with a wealthy man, but she is more comfortable in a split skirt flying across the desert on horseback than in a fancy dress hobnobbing with the elite. Should she follow her father’s orders or her heart? Underneath it all, God is teaching them both about forgiveness and letting go of past hurts & shame.
Though Tomorrow’s Shining Dream is the second in the series, it could be read alone. However, I love how Naomi Rawlings brought friends that we know and love from Eagle Harbor and gave them even more adventures in Texas. I look forward to the next books in this series which hopefully will tell what happens with Cain & Wes!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
What a wonderful addition to the Texas Promise series. I loved book one in this series, Tomorrow’s First Light, and now I love book two, as well! If you haven’t read book one in the series, don’t worry, you can jump right in and enjoy Tomorrow’s Shining Dream anyway.
Charlotte and Daniel…what a great pair of main characters. I felt so bad for Daniel, as he loved Charlotte and was trying to do what he thought was best for her by hiding his feelings. And Charlotte was so conflicted about what her duty to her father and her family ranch was. I enjoyed watching as her eyes began to open regarding her true feelings.
I loved this story from start to finish and eagerly await the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream ( Texas Promise #2 )
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream is book two in the series Texas Promise. This book can be read as a stand alone. This is one of those books that hooks you right at the start and you cannot put it down. I was trying to read faster to see what was going to happen next. Love and family issues is a big part in this story. Charlotte has a love for horses and her family. Pure bread horses and rustlers. Charlotte’s father wants her to marry a man he choses, but does she love him?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
The upside to a series is that a favorite place or group of characters continue to exist, even after an individual story has been told. The downside is that once I’ve read more than a couple of books, it’s hard to let the series go. Thankfully for me, Naomi Rawlings bridged Michigan and Texas with one family, then introduced us to another cast of characters to root for. This second novel in the Texas Promise Series really delivered for me, with great characters and an almost bittersweet love story that made me wonder if these two could overcome their preconceived ideas about what was right in front of them.
Charlotte nearly broke my heart; between her shame over past mistakes, the damage they allowed, and her mistaken belief that she was not beautiful or worthy of being loved as she was, I could both relate to her and wanted to hug her as a friend.
Daniel was a noble hero, willing to sacrifice his own desires for the woman he loved, but so pig-headed and stubborn sometimes I wanted to slap him. I appreciated that he could be both good and still flawed enough to be representative of a real person.
But throughout their love story was also a greater truth about forgiveness–of self, and of others, who may or may not deserve that forgiveness. None of us are perfect this side of eternity, but sometimes it is far easier to see the flaws in another than in our own mirrors. Other times, it requires less effort to beat ourselves up over past wrongs than to seek the forgiveness that will set us free.
There is so much to love about this book: the tough but tender hero, the heroine who doesn’t realize her own worth, the romance between them, mystery, humor, and the strong thread of faith and trusting God that runs through the whole. This book is my new favorite of all of Rawlings’ books so far, but I look forward to seeing what else she has in store for these characters, especially Cain and Wes–I will be eagerly watching for their stories!
I received a review copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
Incredible story with great characters and plot. Charlotte is a character that will pull the reader in with ease. Her sweet personality, love for her horses, love for friends and family. This story has so much to love about it from the pure breed horses, cattle rustlers to a sweet clean romance. This is a book you can’t put down !
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Tomorrow’s Shining Dream by Naomi Rawlings is a most delightful Christian historical novel. It is part of the Texas Promise series but can be read as a stand-alone.
I enjoyed meeting up with some familiar faces. Naomi Rawlings draws some wonderful, warm characters. The leading two had some charming verbal exchanges. The reader witnesses the chemistry bouncing off them. There were some highly amusing moments as the leading lady is accident prone.
The main themes were forgiveness, guilt and grace. We all make mistakes that we need to learn from and not drown in a sea of guilt. “God forgives… you don’t have to spend the rest of your life paying for one mistake.” God meant for us to live in freedom. When He says “forgiven”, we need to believe Him.
Likewise we must forgive others. To fail to do so merely shackles us to a moment in time. Who are we to think we can elevate ourselves above God’s word? He tells us to forgive and we must do it.
We are all sinners in need of grace. We need to be open to receive His grace and we need to extend grace to others.
Misunderstandings occur when we try to either hide our feelings or misinterpret others. We need to be honest and truthful in all things.
The best plan for our lives is always God’s plan. Man’s plan will always be biased. God’s plan is for us to thrive.
There is the theme of treasure. He made “choice after choice based on what would grow both the ranch and his bank account.” True treasure is never in money and stuff. True treasure is found in others and Jesus. We need to be sure to choose wisely.
I am loving this Texas Promise series. I always love Naomi Rawlings novels. The stories are always fabulous and include the heart of God.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Family issues, horses, lost love, grit and determination are found in this compelling story. Charlotte has major decisions to make while showing respect for the wishes of her father. Trusting her own instincts while staying loyal proves to have serious consequences. A great read. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. It has suspense, drama and romance, plus cattle rustling and horses. It will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. If you like clean western romance, you will love this book. I received an ARC copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.