Ballet has always been my life, but one terrible moment may have destroyed everything I’ve worked so hard for—especially my title of Octavia Ricci, principal ballerina. I thought for sure my physical therapist, Dr. Noah Wright, could help me obtain my dream once more, but he wants more than I’m prepared to give. I’ve seen firsthand the trials of interracial relationships. I’m a product of one … product of one myself and promised I’d never put my hopefully-someday kids through that drama. Everyone keeps telling me to let go of other people’s expectations, but I’m just not sure I can. Besides, if my dreams of returning to ballet are futile, what hope is there in seeking unconditional love?
The Price of Dreams is the third and final book in the Christian Chick Lit series: Faith & Fortune.
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A great conclusion to a fun series. Ballet, friendships, and new-found love. Noah was a great hero. Patient and sweet. Steadily encouraging all along the way. Without posting a spoiler, I thought the end made a great poetic circle.
A sweet romance with delightful characters. Third in a series, I hadn’t read the others but was able to fully enjoy this one. It explores the challenges of an interracial relationship in a way that pulls back the curtain on the challenges. Highly recommend for those who love clean, inspirational romance.
Author Toni Shiloh really nailed it with the third book of her Faith & Fortune series. It held my attention from the very beginning and I read it straight through. It could be read as a stand alone but parts will make more sense if you read books 1 and 2.
The characters are so well written that I’m sure I could meet them walking down the streets of New York. I really enjoyed the relationship between the ladies. Tori and Holiday will make you laugh as they push Tavia in the romance area. And the guys in all three books are swoon worthy but true to life. I loved all of them.
Octavia is complex and as we see her hope for what could be with her career and the struggle to achieve that I found myself cheering her on. We also see her struggle with being biracial and attracted to a white man. It breaks my heart that this is even an issue. Shiloh handled it very well, yet was truthful.
At first I wasn’t sure about this series. I have nothing in common with three superstars, or so I thought. But we all want to be loved and accepted, and we all want to grow in our relationship with God. Read this series. You’ll find things that resonate with you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
I loved this conclusion to the series! The dreams Octavia had for her life have changed.
I adore Dr. Noah Wright. I loved that he didn’t give up but gave Octavia the space she needed.
There are family stresses that come to the surface. I liked how the author resolved them.
This book also has one of the best ‘last lines’ ever.
As this the third book in the Faith and Fortune series, I was definitely anticipating reading “The Price of Dreams.” While enough background was provided that this book could be read as a stand-alone title, I do think that readers will appreciate this book more if they read the other two books first. Holiday, Tori and Olivia are examples of what friendship should look like. The romance element is also important, but the basis is supporting your community.
I know very little about ballet, so I enjoyed having a ballerina be the main character. I do feel like that dance did not take over the plot, so readers will not get lost in the language of unfamiliar terms. (Plie anyone?) I did love the fact that it brought to light the beauty of black ballerinas. But more of the plot focuses on Olivia’s recovery. Emphasis is placed on how challenging it would be to overcome an injury.
Dr. Noah appears in the second book. It is apparent that he and Olivia have a connection. But she is reluctant to follow the unsuccessful path of her parents since their interracial relationship was not successful. I like the fact that Olivia comes to grips with her past and discovers new truths about how it really was.
The love story between Dr. Noah and Olivia was definitely a sweet one. I liked how they finally showed courage in giving their relationship a chance.
I enjoyed the struggle and reality in this cute romance. It gave a picture into the life of a famous athlete/performer and made her personable.
As she struggled with accepting her injury, I knew the feeling well. You are giving up everything you have worked so hard for, and the fear of looking at things differently freaks you out. The author walks us through her journey, you cannot help, but see yourself in her shoes.
I highly recommend the whole series! I was struggling with reading books a bit, which is unusual for me, and these hit the spot with something to sink your teeth into, but also giving you that happy story as well.
Oh this series has ended but the end is so beautiful. Toni knows how to write topics that are important and also brings God into her stories.
I am never disappointed in Toni’s books. I can’t wait to read her next book.
I was given an ARC and was not required to leave a positive review, the opinion express are my own.
A Perfect Ending to a Great Series!
I have enjoyed all the books in this series. I love the way Shiloh weaves stories full of romance and faith. Her characters have real struggles that readers can relate to.
The book addressed some difficult issues with grace. Interracial relationships, both romantic and familial, play a big part in this story. Feeling far from God, learning to accept His plans for her life when they may not be her own, and discovering who to let speak into her life and whose expectations to ignore are all things Octavia has to face. These are all things I relate to, and I appreciate the encouraging scriptures Shiloh placed in the story to minister to readers.
If you are looking for a story full of romance, happy endings, and Truth, this book is for you!
“Then be still and listen to His voice.”
Oh, such fun! I’ve been anxiously waiting for Tavia’s story and Toni Shiloh surely doesn’t disappoint! Written from the first person point of view, we get to see the heart and mind of this beautiful biracial topnotch ballerina who has sustained a possible career-ending injury. I loved getting to know Noah, her concierge physical therapist, through the eyes of this hurting but determined woman who has lived and measured her whole life by what others say about her. Her emotions run deep and raw; her misgivings about her childhood and her divorced parents which lead to misunderstandings and misconceptions that shape her adulthood are heart-breaking and her path to reconciliation is certainly rocky. But Noah is a wonderfully steady and constant source of encouragement and he gently points Tavia back to the One who gives all comfort, peace, and purpose.
This is book 3 in the series and while it can be read as a stand-alone, I know you’ll want to read the entire series once you meet Tavia’s best friends Holiday and Tori.
I received a copy of the book from the author/publisher via JustRead Publicity Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
“Where are You, Lord?” I whispered. “Why can I not feel Your presence?”
The heart of this book is learning to wait on His still small voice, calming the mind in the busyness of the world to focus on His will in our lives. This is shown through Octavia’s experiences, when a life changing injury happens she must reevaluate the direction God has for her career as a Principal Ballerina. She struggles with where she belongs, especially with her friends finding love. After reading the first two books in the series, “The Price of Dreams,” was calming to my soul. The focus pans away from the suspense of a stalker and focuses on what happens next between Octavia and her friend’s futures. Shiloh looks at the heart, the soul, the mind, and how we deal with standing out in a world that wants everyone to meet their standards. How we fight against the cookie cutter images the world expects of us.
“It was bad enough I had to waffle somewhere between Black and white, but add to that being American and Italian? Headache city.”
Another key element of Octavia’s story is her self-perception and how she is viewed by others. She is concerned with what others think of her and the struggle with her status in her community and family. Her heart is torn with family issues and how she relates with her father. This has impacted her trust level with men. I love how her PT, Dr. Noah challenges her to see beyond those struggles to grasp all that God has for her. Their banter was fun to watch play out while trying to hold back on a relationship. I loved seeing their romance unfold…
“But everyone knows books are better than movies.”
“Says who? Book nerds, that’s who.”
He laughed, and the joy echoing in the studio warmed my heart. He had a wonderful laugh. I closed my eyes, trying to push the delightful sound away before I fell under his spell any further.”
Another unique perspective Shiloh wrote about was Octavia’s struggles in choosing an interracial relationship after seeing how much her parent’s relationship affected her. I loved seeing her walls come down, accepting the love God has for her, and letting go of others’ expectations. Noah was a fresh wave of grace that spoke to the soul, fighting for her, and yet giving her the space to figure out what was best for her. Handling racism and interracial struggles when pulled between your heritage and other’s expectations was a heart tugging story. I loved the honest conversations about real life issues between her best friends, too.
A beautiful story with so much heart that deals with the struggles of today’s culture. I recommend this to anyone who loves contemporary romance with real life issues surrounding family and interracial relationships. God’s love and devotion is interwoven beautifully in the storyline.
I was given a copy of this book by the author and also read it under my Kindle Unlimited account. I have given my honest opinion In this review.
Honestly so sad that this series is coming to an end. Would miss these three wonderful ladies. I love that the books were so relatable. Loved getting to read Tavia’s story.
It’s really sad how racism has made the world so sad to live in.
I loved Tavia’s spirit, I loved her passion for dance and even with the accident I loved watching her navigating through all the changes, learning to forgive and also trust God with her love life.
I loooooved Noah! His patience and willingness to wait but also fight for his love with Octavia made my heart happy
I’m going to miss these ladies but I’m glad I can go back and visit them again .
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are mine.
Tavia and Noah are a wonderful set of characters, leading with their faith and hearts through life.
Toni Shiloh has closed her series with another beautiful novel. Yet, I am sad it’s over. It’s like enjoying the last piece of chocolate in a high-end candy box. It leaves it sweet notes within as you find yourself wanting more.
Toni Shiloh wraps up her Faith & Fortune series with Octavia Ricci. A woman whose entire life centered around ballet and now that she doesn’t have it, flounders with her purpose, her relationships, and her faith.
First, I have to say that I found Noah’s blushing endearing (and somewhat humorous when it gave him away). But this book is really about Tavi’s journey to healing—and that includes much more than her torn ACL.
Shiloh takes topics like interracial relationships and the prejudices people have about them and shines God’s light and truth on them.
The Price of Dreams is a great conclusion to this series as these three friends realize their identity isn’t in their careers but in the people and the God who loves them.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
5 Stars!
What a fabulous conclusion to the Faith & Fortune series! I have been eagerly anticipating Octavia’s story since reading the first book in the series, and it exceeded all my expectations! I love all three of the heroines in this series, but I think Octavia is my favorite. I could so relate to her feeling that God had left her and being unable to feel His presence, as well as trying to figure out what is God’s plan for your life when you don’t know if the dreams you have for yourself will ever come true or not, these are all thoughts and feelings that I have had and sometimes still have, so needless to say Octavia’s story touched my heart very deeply!
I loved Octavia and I wish she were real because I think we’d totally be besties!
Noah was an awesome, swoon-worthy hero, I loved him so much (though I have to say that Fox is still my favorite hero of the series!) Noah’s tenderness, patience, and steadfastness were amazing, and his tendency to embarrass himself and end up blushing was totally and completely endearing! Humility and humor are two of my favorite traits in a hero and he has them both in spades!
I loved The Price of Dreams from the first page, and I hated to see it end!
I adore the Faith & Fortune series and most highly recommend that everyone read it, though I would suggest starting with The Trouble with Love as this is a series that is best read in order!
Toni Shiloh is one of my favorite authors, I’ve read and loved all of her books to date and I cannot wait to read her next book!
I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher. Which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own!
I’ve been excitedly waiting for Octavia’s story since I first read The Trouble with Love. Tavia was so quiet, sweet, and mysterious that I couldn’t wait to read her story. I also LOVE ballet so I couldn’t wait to read a story on a ballerina! And The Price of Dreams did not disappoint. As a former dancer, the ballet elements were absolute perfection!
Tavia is an intriguing character and I loved learning more of her background. She’s extremely driven and perfectionist and has a lot to learn about her identity and God’s love. Since these are two issues I struggle with as well, I found Tavia extremely relatable and loved the truths that were present in this story. And Noah was the perfect guy for Tavia! Gentle, kind, and thoughtful, he helps Tavia believe in herself and learn to relax and trust who God says she is. There’s one specific scene that will give you all the heart eyes.
Add in Holiday and Tori’s wit and humor as they support Tavia and push her to take a few risks in life and love and you’ve got another sweet, fun story that is the perfect conclusion to this trilogy! I’m not sure I can pick a favorite book! I’m not gonna lie though— I really hope we see more of Holiday, Tori, and Tavia in the future!! Whether that’s a Christmas novella, a vacation with kids, or a spin-off of some sort, all of these characters are definitely worth revisiting!
I am so sad that this series have ended. It is great to see a positive friendship among young black women. Olivia’s story is the final one being told. Her story showcased the bias and prejudices that we all have and do not recognize until someone points it out. She understands what it is like to be biracial and do not want to enter a relationship with a white man. She has seen the pain it can cost. She wants love but she is so bound by her own expectations and convictions that she does not want to admit the truth about Noah. I am so glad that Noah confronted her on her hypocrisy and fears. I like how God used her tragedy to bring things to light and to transform her dreams.
I received this book from the publisher and the opinions expressed are entirely my own. I recommend this series to everyone
Toni Shiloh nailed it in book 3 of her Faith and Fortune series. The Price of Dreams follows Octavia, a ballerina who had surgery from an injury, and her relationship between her and Dr. Noah Wright, her physical therapist. The Price of Dreams addresses topics relevant to today’s society such as interracial relationships and not having to live with people’s expectations. Octavia experienced the difficulties of an interracial relationship because her parents. an African American mother and a white Italian father, divorced when she was young. Octavia learns a lot of lessons as she navigates her growing relationship with Noah amidst people’s opinions about interracial relationship and her relationships with her parents and her dad’s family and her dreams of returning to being principle ballerina may have to change.
Reading the Fame and Fortune series is like sitting down to chat with best friends; heartwarming, invigorating, soothing, lots of laughter, love, and happiness.
The Price Of Dreams was simply amazing. The sweet good doctor Noah was just so loving and amazing. His patience, love, care and concern for Octavia made me jealous. LOL! I loved what they had. I admired how he was willing to fight and wait for her through her worries and pain.
I greatly admired Tavia’s strength. I loved how driven she was to get back on her feet despite the odds. Even in her relationship with God, I loved that she valued it and did not want it to suffer.
This book was a wonderful conclusion to the Fame and Fortune series. Absolutely brilliant series.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion
This is the third and final book in the Faith and Fortunes series by Toni Shiloh. I have really enjoyed this series. I have liked how each of the friends found their faith and love. I liked how in this book Tavia struggles with her faith because of the bad things that have happened to her that could keep her from dancing again. I loved how she had to decide it she was going to follow her heart or listen to haters when it came to the man she loved. I loved that she came to realize that she can have more then one dream and that they can change. I thought the characters were very relatable and realistic. This has been a great series about find faith in God and in finding love.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I have enjoyed being immersed in the lives of these characters. Each person is truly unique. They find their way through obstacles such as a knee injury in this story to find hope and love. From handling family issues to racial issues, this is a great story. Author Toni Shiloh writes stories that touch the heart and soul. I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required.