She’s come to build a future. He’s running from his past.Patrick O’Connor has seen far too much of the cruel and unforgiving world. Life has beaten him down relentlessly. Out of hope and out of options, he makes the terrifying and desperate decision to return home to the family he has lied to for years, the family he knows will never forgive him.Widowed and nearly unable to care for her tiny … nearly unable to care for her tiny daughter under the weight of extreme poverty, Eliza Porter jumps at the opportunity to leave behind the slums of New York City for the promise of a new life and a new beginning in the frontier town of Hope Springs.
Fate tosses the two of them together more and more often, while the burden of his tightly-held secrets and the ache of her abandoned dreams pull them further and further apart. Clinging to the whispered possibility of something more than the pain life has offered them thus far will require every bit of hope they can find in this peaceful but precarious valley of dreams.
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I really liked Patrick and Eliza. Patrick helped his family to heal from wounds and vice versa, which I appreciated. This was one of the better books in the series.
As usual, I cried all the way through the book because that’s how Sarah Eden rolls. Great emotional hooks. Many of us can relate to the feelings of self-doubt and trying to find your place among your family members.
I have a massive soft spot in my heart for this series; it is by far Eden’s darkest stories as there is a lot of focus on the trials and pain of life, which is one of the reasons why I love them so much. While there is always that bright and shining HEA awaiting the reader, you know you’re going to get a lot of bumps and bruises along the way, which just makes that ending all the sweeter because of it. They’re romances that are heavy on realistic drama… aka no mustache-twirling over-the-top villains here! Just the real, everyday pains of life and survival that provide the backdrop to these people finding happiness with their true love.
There were quite a few moments in this book when I bawled, and I loved Patrick’s story arc. It’s rare to see addiction addressed in romance novels, and I think Eden did a great job with it. Of course, there is an adorable toddler, and I always love seeing those big, strong men falling in love with their future step-children.
Though not my favorite in the series (Katie’s story is a hard one to beat and sets the bar impossibly high), it’s a great read and doesn’t disappoint. It definitely teases future romance stories, such as Finbarr. I can’t wait to see what else is coming for the town of Hope Springs!
After years of letting his family believe him dead, Patrick O’Connor is surprised when he receives a letter from his mother. He makes the difficult choice to go to where his family now calls home, hoping they can help with the burdens he carries. As he struggles with everything his past has brought on him, can he find love in the form of cheerful Eliza?
I’ve been fascinated with Patrick since it was revealed he wasn’t dead as his family had believed. What had made him run? Where had he gone in those years? What was he really like? And this book did not disappoint! From the start, Patrick was a sympathetic protagonist. He is weighed down with the beliefs and stories of his family, looking for a way to exist with the truth.
Eliza is a cheerful and perfect counterpoint to him. She has her own dreams to have a life for her daughter. Her cheerful demeanor is a front for the hurt she has had to endure. She doesn’t let disappointment and setbacks keep her down.
This was an excellent addition to the series and I am definitely looking forward to reading what happens next! (Finbar, please?)
I am always excited when another story in this series is released. I appreciate how they’re long enough that I can’t read them in a weekend. It’s like a king-sized candy bar instead of a fun size. Yes, sometimes I still do finish them in a weekend, but it’s so involved that I’m left with the guilty pleasure, haha.
The characters are so realistic and I feel so engaged with their struggles and triumphs. I really have fun seeing inside the Irish family, traditions, and general dynamic. The guys are delightfully handsome and funny, and the women seem to hold their own, producing satisfying relationships to read about.
I can apply the conflicts and resolutions to my own life without feeling like the author is didactic or overt. I love the natural dialogue (that’s a huge forte) and the physical appearance of everything (good and bad). Each character seems unique and has a distinct voice. The minor characters really add to the story. The pace is smooth.
I look forward to another!
I fall more in love with this family with each book! I’m so happy that Patrick turned up alive, especially since we got to know him before the war in My Dearest Love. It’s heartbreaking to see what he’s gone through and how he’s changed. I love that even though he struggles with his family, Eliza and her toddler daughter are able to bring the lighter side of him to the surface with their friendliness and acceptance. The O’Connor and Archer family members from the previous books don’t just make an appearance, but their personalities shine through as they interact with Patrick and Eliza. Ian and Patrick especially struggled with their reconciliation, which made it all the sweeter when they finally overcame the hard feelings. There is plenty of teasing banter, especially with Tavish around, and Eliza fits in the family perfectly in that way. She and Patrick share a sense of humor which is a good foundation when their feelings and attraction grows stronger with time. Conflicts and self-doubt make their relationship road a bit bumpy, but it’s a wonderful journey of redemption and forgiveness with strong family bonds and sweet romance.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Ever since I read Hope Springs in 2014 this has been my favorite series. This one may be my very favorite of all! I’m going to say that on these, you should read them in order. Otherwise, you’re going to be very confused about some of the story.
This one features Patrick O’Conner. He’s been kind of lost. In fact his family thought he died at the same time his older brother did. But he didn’t die, he did allow them to think he had, however. I liked Patrick. He feels a lot of guilt for things in his past. Most of that guilt wasn’t necessary. But he uses the guilt to let it drive his family away. When he really should be pulling them closer.
Then there’s Eliza. She was the roommate of Maura O’Conner. Her story is told in Long Journey Home. She’s come to Hope Springs to be the housekeeper for the Archers. And she has dreams, big ones. I love the way she works for those dreams. She also works equally hard to get Patrick to open up to not only her, but his family. I LOVED her character.
And Hope Springs….it’s almost like coming home for me. It’s definitely my happy place in book worlds. I can’t wait to get to read more of these.
I was sent a copy of Valley of Dreams as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Loved it! I couldn’t put it down!!
I’m so glad Patrick got his story because you found out why he didn’t tell his family he was alive. I love how Eliza is always looking for the positive even after all she’s been through. She is always looking to help others see the good through their trials as well.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This book is so well written. You will fall in love not just with Patrick O’Conner or Eliza Porter, but with an entire family and town of people. Sarah Eden writes her characters with such heart and believability that each one leaves an impression. And that impression leaves you wanting more of Hope Springs.
“Life’s not fair…that’s how you know you’re awake.”
“…difficult paths hadn’t broken her before, and neither would this one now. This was the oath she was choosing, and she would walk it.”
This is one of those stories I couldn’t put down. I was blessed to get an advanced copy and am so blessed I was able to.
This is a story of healing. I find that these are the stories that I am best able to connect with. Patrick is easily becoming my most favorite O’Connor in this series. He had a lot to overcome, more than I think he knew, Eliza was easily the perfect balm, and he for her. When a couple comes in with individual problems and they help each other and are a good match, these are the kinds of stories I love,
I love stories of broken people finding hope and healing. Patrick’s interactions with Lydia and with Finnbar gave me hope for him early on. I can’t wait to see these characters again.
This one definitely has all the emotion and more that I have come to expect from Sarah Eden. She always leaves me longing for the next installment.
A sweet love story of redemption and forgiveness and second chances at love and happiness. Not just in romantic love but also in love for family and friends. Bonds forged during hardship and sacrifice. Patrick has been away from his family over 10 years after the war has ended. Isolating himself from family and friends. Suffering with a heartache and loss he doesn’t know how to deal with on his own. Eliza has an optimistic and happy disposition despite the hard blows life has sent her. She is just the woman Patrick needs to pull him from self pity and doubt. Finding a way to build love between each other and mending bridges previously burned or thought lost. This story will allow you to laugh while also allowing you to cry and feel the pain that life sometimes has to offer.
Another amazing clean historical romance by Sarah Eden. I love how the hope springs books still have romance but they focus on so much more than that. It’s got the ups and downs and is a good reflection of what life was really like back in the day in these small towns across the US. I would definitely recommend this book and every single one of Sarah Eden’s books! She is one of the best!
Valley of Dreams by Sarah M. Eden (5 stars)
This series is amazing! (If there were such a thing as a 6 star rating, this series would have it!)
The whole O’Connor family feels so real and, as readers, we are so entwined in the fates of each of the brothers! (I am hoping that Finnbar and Emma’s story is next —please, please, please, Ms. Eden?)
There is no contrived romantic angst in these stories. The real lives and heartaches of the characters are enough on their own.
I’m no writer, I’m a reader, so it is difficult for me to express how attached I have become to these stories over the years, but they are worth reading, they are worth multiple readings!
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
I loved the journey to Hope Springs and the characters that live there. I enjoyed the well developed characters and the well written description of the area of Hope Springs.
The characters are true to life in that they have struggles and cares but also strength and love. The town name is so fitting.
I enjoyed the discovery of Eliza and Patrick’s friendship and lives. How when one is most beaten down when family and friends support you it can be a bit less hard. I liked how both had dreams that they had to keep working for and towards.
it is a story of hope and I enjoyed it!
Oh, this book was lovely. This entire series is fantastic, and this book captured my heart as it continued the story of one of my favorite fictional families. Patrick’s struggle was so heartrending, as he wants to be with his family but also doesn’t believe he can ever truly belong again. He’s so tender-hearted and I just couldn’t help but adore him. Eliza was such a bright spot, with her big dreams and her determination, which inspired Patrick in turn. Besides delightful characters, the plot is so good–I love how this series deals with hard issues. Even though it’s painful to see the characters go through their trials, it makes the books realistic and gives them a depth that makes them so much more than just a historical romance (which isn’t to discount the romance–each love story in this series has been terrific!). That depth, along with well-developed, lovable characters, is what makes Sarah Eden my favorite author. Definitely put this on your to-read-as-soon-as-possible list!
5 stars and one of my picks for the best books of 2020!
Oh how I love the O’Connor family! This is the sixth book in the Hope Springs collection. And it does not disappoint! Patrick’s story is one of forgiveness and redemption. And Eliza does not give up on the gruff man who hardly speaks and breaks down the wall he has built around him brick by brick with her positive outlook, determination, and friendship. Her life has not been easy either, but she doesn’t let it keep her down. I will say the part that touched me most was the relationship between Patrick and Ian. Love these characters and cannot wait for more installments in the Hope Springs Saga!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion
I thought I had read most, if not all of the Hope Springs series, but while I was reading this book, I quickly found out I’ve missed a book or two. I need to rectify that, because this is such a good series. Patrick’s story is full of heartache and hope, and is a poignant story about coming home and finding your self-worth.
I loved Eliza’s character right off the bat. She saw past the rough, scruffy facade that Patrick was trying to hide behind, and her natural cheerfulness started to bring him out, bit by bit. I think without her influence, Patrick wouldn’t have lasted very long in Hope Springs, especially with how worthless he felt about himself.
The thing I enjoy so much about this series is how real and raw the emotions are. Each of the characters in these stories have their own trials and as they fight through them, they realize just how strong they really are. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone.
“No one should have to dream entirely alone.”
I’ve long been a fan of Sarah M. Eden’s books, and especially her Longing for Home series. The town of Hope Springs and the O’Connor family have embedded themselves in my heart, and I can’t get enough of them. I was especially excited to read Patrick O’Connor’s story in Valley of Dreams. After being apart from his family for ten years, with his family believing him to have died, Patrick travels to Hope Springs as a last resort to try for a new start and to overcome his addiction. There he meets Eliza Porter who is hoping for a new beginning, also. Eden is a master at creating colorful, hurting and broken, but engaging characters. I loved the interaction between Patrick and Eliza and also the sweet care Patrick takes with Lydia, Eliza’s small daughter. Their relationship was such fun to watch growing as they worked toward fulfilling their dreams.
“As someone once told me, if the path I’m on doesn’t lead to what I’m looking for, I’ll find the path that does.”
This story is a beautiful tale of redemption, family love and unity, forgiveness, and compassion. Humor and witty banter, deep truths and insight, replacing feelings of hopelessness with self-worth, fulfilling dreams and ambitions, all mixed with some romance and inspiration make this book one for the keeper shelf. Eden’s beautiful and uplifting prose and her lovable cast of characters make this an unforgettable addition to the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
What I found interesting:
• The writer’s words painted clear pictures that helped me to visualize the scenes and the emotions of the characters. The author’s writing style was concise vivid, and clear.
• This book took me on an emotional roller coaster. Hope, joy, sadness, laughter, and tears.
• Patrick was a man struggling to make sense of his life after the Civil War. He returns to his family in Hope Springs trying to chase away his demons and find a place where he belongs. He was afraid he wouldn’t be able to find his place in life.
• Eliza came to Hope Springs to take a housekeeping position with the Archers. She wanted to feel secure and provide for her young daughter Lydia. She was a woman with a fragile self worth and a dream she wanted to fulfill.
• This was a story about Eliza and Patrick, two insecure people struggling to survive life’s trials. Will they find friendship, love, and walk the path of life together? This premise kept my interest from the beginning until the end of the story.
• To add depth to this story and to make the most of this book, I recommend reading some of the other books in this series. I have read all of the series and feel I probably got more out of this book than someone who hasn’t.
• This was a clean read and I appreciated that.
I was given an advance copy of this book. My review was voluntary and my opinions were my own. I highly recommend this Hope Springs Novel and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
My goodness. So good!
“Life’s not fair… That’s how you know you’re awake.” I cannot compliment Sarah Eden enough. She is so good at drawing me in from the first sentence and letting me feel like a part of her fictional world.
Patrick is the prodigal son once believed dead. He struggles with self-love and desperation forces him to move to be close to his family again. Patrick is the first to lend a hand and the last to point blame. I loved Patrick’s journey and his counterpart in Eliza.