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, … 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.
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A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a heartwarming Christian story. I thought this tale was well-written with developed characters. We get to travel back to 1880 where Agnes Pratt works as the schoolteacher in Penance, Dakota Territory. After learning a secret, Agnes made plans to give up her comfortable life in Buffalo, New York. Agnes answered the ad for a teacher in Penance and discovered she had a knack for teaching. Agnes and James had been friends’ all their lives and had planned to wed. When Agnes departed without a word to James, he is left with unanswered questions. James arrival in Penance upheaves Agnes’ life. She has never stopped loving James, but it is best if they do not marry. Sam Landon is a logger and carpenter. Agnes hired Sam to make repairs to the schoolhouse over the summer. Sam is ready to settle down and he believes Agnes might be the right woman for him. Sam is a kind, good man. I admit that I was rooting for Sam, and I hope the author provides his story in another book. A Life Once Dreamed is a lovely story. I thought the author captured the time-period with the language, clothing, and attitudes of people. Values and attitudes were different then. There are some great secondary characters which include Minnie who loves to play matchmaker, Mayor Paul Clint, Tommy, Ruby, and Hannah. There is humor in the story from Tommy with his endless and sometimes embarrassing questions as well as Minnie who loves romance. There are great people in the town of Penance. The author captured the rugged setting of Dakota Territory with the loggers, miners, saloons, and the mountains. The life is not easy, but the people are friendly and help each other out. There are some heartbreaking scenes as well as action and tense moments. I had no trouble figuring out Agnes’ secret and the story played out in an expected manner. However, that did not diminish my enjoyment of this heartfelt story, and I look forward to Rachel Fordham next novel. A Life Once Dreamed is a charming historical novel with matchmaking Minnie, the committed mayor, a fatal fire, a severe sickness, immeasurable inquiries, and a startling secret.
A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a highly-engaging historical romance I thoroughly enjoyed. I was hooked into the storyline from page one and hated when I had to put the book down. To me, it’s quite a captivating read. I adored the townsfolk of Penance. They’re so unique and lively, and I love how they always have each other’s back no matter what. It’s so refreshing to fictionally engage with a town filled with people who genuinely care about one another. I wish our world was a little more like Penance! Of the many secondary characters, I especially loved Sam. He is fantastic and I hope Fordham will one day write Sam’s love story. As far as Agnes and James are concerned, I wholeheartedly enjoyed their characters. There’s a sense of the Biblical Hosea story to their story that I felt played out beautifully. Their relationship is a great mix of true friendship plus deep romantic tension. And, if this is not enough, A Life Once Dreamed tackles some very relevant and timeless themes that get the reader thinking. All in all, A Life Once Dreamed is a great must-read story!
What I enjoyed the most is the attention to setting and historical detail. As a woman in 2020, I often found it frustrating to experience the social strictures of the 1880s that Agnes constantly runs up against. I found myself physically squirming against these rules — rules like a woman had to quit her job to take care of a family member or if she got married, or the atrocious legal directives and social stigma against illegitimate children. To my modern sensibilities, I hated these social rules and ideologies because they seem so illogical, heartless, and harsh. I hated that 1880s society brushed over everyone with such a broad stroke with very little wiggle room or exceptions. Yes, I see the irony in my sentiments with today’s cancel culture society raging wild. We may as well be back in the 1880s for all the illogical, heartless, and harsh rules society is literally forcing on us today. But I digress! While I struggled emotionally with all of this, I actually rather enjoyed that I struggled because it allowed me to be a part of the story. This book is so well written and so engaging I felt like I was living in Penance in 1880 experiencing these regulations and social constructs right alongside Aggie. Feeling like I was a part of the story made the story more alive to me. I adore when a novel allows the reader to partake in the story!
A Life Once Dreamed is an excellent historical romance that I highly recommend. This is a must-read novel you do not want to miss. I am so glad I got to experience this story.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
My very favorite feeling when I’m reading a book is whenever I completely forget I’m actually reading a book. I’m so absorbed in the fictional world that I forget where I’m at because in my heart, I’m wherever the character is. That’s how it was for me with this book. From page one, I was right there in Aggie’s world, feeling her hurt and heartache. I was running away with her.
I fell in love with all of these characters. They all found a place in my heart!
The story itself was beautiful with an inspiring message that really touched me. The small town vibe was exactly what I love because it’s a home feeling for me.
There is so, so much I could say about this book! As one of my most anticipated books of 2020, it didn’t disappoint in the least.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a beautiful historical fiction that will inspire you and touch your heart.
*i would like to thank Revell for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is such a sweet and poignant love story but you better have tissues handy when you read it. A Life Once Dreamed is the story of Agnes Pratt, the school teacher in a small Dakota town named Penance. The story opens with James Harris and Agnes as young people in love about to get married until something happens and Agnes just up and leaves with no explanation. She ends up in Penance and becomes the beloved teacher and friend for six years. Then James shows up one day as the new doctor. The author leaves you wondering what secret could have come between two people who love each other so much. There are many instances of illness and accidents that bring them together in the story. I loved the colorful characters that build the story. It will make you laugh, cry, be frustrated and cheer. This is definitely a must-read.
Circa 1870’s. What is a Buffalo, NY, girl doing in Penance, Dakota Territory? Agnes Pratt is running away from the man she loves, that’s what. Why? Because she doesn’t want to reveal a secret that’s sure to ruin their chances of ever being together. Accepting a teaching job in a remote territory where James Harris could never find her seemed the best option. But Agnes is no frontier woman, or so she thought. She’s managed to establish herself in Penance; gaining the admiration and respect of many of the residents in the small town. Just maybe she can say goodbye to the life she once dreamed of and hello to this new life. It’s been six years since she left NY. Surely she can accept her fate and embrace her role as teacher and spinster. That is until a new doctor shows up in Penance and threatens to change the trajectory of her future.
A Life Once Dreamed can be summed up with one word: delightful. It was a gentle read that took me on a journey to the Midwest and gave me Little House on the Prairie vibes that put me in a good mental space during this pandemic. It was well written with rugged, endearing characters and enough calamities and adventures to keep the story moving forward.
Thank you, Revell Books, for the gifted copy of A Life Once Dreamed. My review of it is entirely my own.
Agnes & James grew up in Buffalo, New York as childhood friends and then fell in love. Prior to getting married, Agnes leaves for Penance to start a new life, carrying a secret with her. Six years later, James now a doctor, decides to move to Penance. Can they survive in the same town?
The characters, plot, and setting were wonderful. Parts of the story made me smile, cry, and laugh. I was hooked from the very beginning. This story had everything for a captivating read. Inspirational & Uplifting.
The story had mystery, a second chance at love, suspense, and lessons in what God’s love can do. James learns that the family life he lived in Buffalo was flawed. He was prejudice and narrow-minded then but learns to set those traits aside in Penance. Highly recommended read.
I received a copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
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.
From the very first chapter until the last word on the page I was completely invested in the characters of this story. Written with such detail and care, Rachel Fordham invites the reader to join with the characters in the story. My heart went out to Agnes, she sacrifices her own dreams for what she feels is best for those she loves. Several years later when she comes face-to-face with her past, will she make the same choices a second time?
Amid uncertainty and calamity Agnes clings to the truth that God loves her and has a plan for her life. A beautiful reminder to us all that even when things look bad, God can make a blessing out of it. God’s love for us can right any wrong!
(I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Agnes Pratt and James Harris were childhood friends and had marvelous dreams together. But Aggie threw them all away and fled from Boston for Penance, Dakota Territory.
Aggie has become a teacher in a one room schoolhouse. All her anxiety returns when James comes into town as the new doctor. Neither has forgotten the other. James is a patient, steadfast man and would like nothing more than to make old dreams a reality. But dreams never stay the same.
Ms. Fordham has crafted a cozy town in Penance with likable townspeople. They run the gamut from nosey matchmaking friends to a loyal Mayor to Old McHenry who was the closest thing the town had to a doctor. The children at the school are endearing, even Tommy who asks outrageous questions.
You can feel the uneasiness and worry Aggie has when she does not want to reveal why she left Boston. Likewise, you can feel the profound love Aggie has for an orphan child. It is good to remember that: “Where you come from matters far less than where you are going.”
There are lessons to be learned from Aggie and James and their struggles:
Sometimes God has a better plan.
You should not judge a person by their background.
God can give a mother’s love when a child is in need.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Another winner from Rachel Fordham! I absolutely adored this story, and although it had a satisfying ending, I still wasn’t ready to let go of the characters in the end. I loved James and Aggie’s relationship with all it’s history and complexity. I loved that they weren’t only former sweethearts, but also childhood best friends. I appreciated that even though they had a lot to work through between secrets and hurts, they still had that underlying friendship that helped carry them through even the most difficult moments.
A powerful question this story asked was what makes a person worthy? Who decides what makes a person worth another’s love and what deems them untouchable? How far is one willing to go for the ones they love? This was beautifully weaved into the story in a masterful way that demanded answers.
A small thing that put a smile on my face was the Easter eggs to the author’s other novels. If you haven’t read them you’d just miss the moment but if you have, then they’re a sweet addition.
If I didn’t love The Hope of Azure Springs so much this would be a much easier decision but I’m not so sure which one is my favorite anymore! I LOVED this story so much and am sad it had to come to and end. I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next!
*I received a copy of this book from Revell Books. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Fordham has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. I enjoyed following Agnes along on her journey from brokenness to healing. It’s an emotional read rich in depth. I read this novel in one sitting.
Recommend to readers who enjoy inspirational, historical fiction.
I won a copy. I’ve expressed my honest thoughts.
Set in the Dakota Territory in 1880, A Life Once Dreamed is another A+ offering from master storyteller Rachel Fordham. This book featuring beautifully crafted characters who tug at your heartstring, a smoothly flowing plot that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go, sweet romance, impressive historical detail, and spiritual truths is a wonderfully touching read from cover to cover. The story ran the gamut of my emotions from laughter to tears. I loved the theme of accepting people for who they are and not judging them by their past. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
This is a sweet clean romance. The book is full of lovely characters that I would have liked to get to know in life. It is kind of a love triangle which isn’t my favorite trope. We get the POV of all three of them. That is rather unusual. I’m hoping that since there was so much focus on Sam (though not as much as Aggie and James) that means he will get his own book at some point because I really liked him. I’m a sucker for soft-hearted, quiet, deep feeling, caring heroes. I confess that I liked him better than James. Sam’s only real fault was that he wasn’t James. I think he would have made a wonderful, caring husband and father. I kept hoping someone would ride into town and sweep him off his feet because I didn’t want him to be left sad and alone.
I did like James though. He was a good guy but he had some learning to do and growth to make. He needed to make the same personal changes that Aggie had been doing over the past 6 years. I get why she didn’t want to tell James the reason she left him but it was rather cruel toward him. And to refuse to tell him even after they are reunited seemed to drag on the torture. I’m not sure that he would have been ready to deal with the reason had she told him before she left.
Aggie had taken her bad situation and overcome it by making her life better and making life better for those around her as well. I feel like she had done most all her growth between the prologue and chapter one. Because of that, I felt a little bogged down in the middle of the story. Aggie was spinning her wheels. She was still doing good in the world but her personal growth stagnated until Freddie came into her life.
Somehow reading a book which included an epidemic seemed more pertinent to me since I was reading it during a pandemic. But I did wonder about how they handled Sam’s exposure. He’d had little exposure at that point so why would they have a man that may or may not get sick take care of a sick baby thus ensuring that he would get sick? Why not isolate him at the clinic? He might not have gotten it. Just seemed a little odd to me. That was my complaint on that one.
Overall I enjoyed the book and I’m glad I read it. I was lucky enough to win this book in a giveaway.
No sex, language or violence
some mild innuendo and references to illegitimacy
I’m not usually a fan of “second chance” romances, but I absolutely loved this book! The storyline was original (which has been hard to find lately) and the writing made it easy to get sucked into James and Aggie’s story, I couldn’t put the book down! If you’re on the fence about reading “A Life Once Dreamed” it’s a must read!
Agnes Pratt finds out about a secret her parents kept from her and decides to run away. Leaving behind her stylish life in Boston and the love of her life, James Harris. She ends up in the small town of Penance in the Dakota Territory where she becomes the schoolteacher. There, she carves out a life for herself. Six years later who should show up in Penance but James. He is there to be the new doctor.
I enjoyed the connection between James and Agnes. Their banter back and forth was sweet. The author included another POV character who I think was supposed to add a little tension between James and Agnes. For me, that character fell a little short on that. Overall, it didn’t take away from me liking this story. I look forward to reading more by Rachel.
I loved this book! I was quickly drawn in to the well written plot and got attached to the multifaceted, endearing characters. This is definitely my favorite book by this author. Each one has gotten successively better, and I can’t wait for the next one!
Sweet, Christian romance set in the early 1880s in a pioneer Dakota territory. The story was pretty predictable but I still enjoyed reading it from cover to cover. Agnes and James were great characters and I especially liked Jame’s determination to court Agnes and figure out what went wrong in their relationship 6 years prior. I also liked reading about the small town and how they helped each other be a strong community thru sickness and health. I love reading about pioneer life in that time period.
This was an easy to read, historical romance about second chances, love and forgiveness.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
Just like the cover – this book was beautiful!
The characters, story, and capturing of the 1800’s setting was beautifully done by the Author.
This story brought moments of sadness and joy all wrapped into one spectacular package, I was drawn into the tale from the very beginning.
Such an inspiring tale and I loved the story’s reminder of what God’s love can do.
Highly recommend this read!
***Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the digital advanced review copy of this book. All views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.***
Second chances
‘Is independent the same as being a spinster?’ – Tommy, her student, at school one day.
The author has once again penned a story that will make you laugh, perhaps tear-up a little and generally just enjoy the time spent reading. It’s 1874 in the city of Buffalo, New York. Agnes (Aggie) Pratt has grown up as a member of the upper class or high society, with all the perks and privileges that go with it. Her dear friend from childhood, who lived next door becomes not only a best friend but also the man she loves and hopes to marry one day. But suddenly she leaves Buffalo for parts unknown leaving a heartbroken James behind.
Teaching in Penance, Dakota Territory is a far cry from having everything done for you, but Aggie excels at it and her students and the town people love her. After 6 years, a new doctor shows up in town…..James! How will they ever negotiate their way through secrets and heartache? A sweet story of second chances and new opportunities to learn to accept people regardless of their past.
This digital copy was received through NetGalley, Baker Publishing Group and Revell. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.
Rachel Fordham’s stories just get sweeter each year!
Agnes (Aggie) Pratt, the much-loved schoolteacher, has a determined “can-do” spirit that will make readers smile! Will her new life be shaken by the arrival of the new town doctor…who happens to be her childhood sweetheart?
I really enjoyed this book! Fans of Janette Oke and Beverly Lewis will love the warm storytelling of A Life Once Dreamed. I’ve enjoyed everything Rachel Fordham has published and I can’t wait til next year for yet another charming tale!
A Life Once Dreamed is available now! Visit Baker Book House or Christian Book to purchase your copy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the Revell Reads Blogging Program. A positive review was not required. Opinions expressed are completely my own.