Member Reviews
Forever Hidden is book one in The Treasures of Nome series, and was written by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse.
Summary: Havyn Powell loves the dairy farm her family owns outside of Nome, Alaska. They have a good life, and a close-knit family.
But, her grandfather’s sudden health issues have thrown a wrench into everything. Without his guidance and knowledge, Havyn and her sisters have no idea how their grandfather managed the farm, or even how he paid the workers. Bills are piling up, and if Havyn doesn’t come up with a solution fast, the farm may not be able to stay in business.
John Roselli made a promise to his grandfather to deliver a package, and he intends to keep that promise-even if it means spending his last dime to get to Nome to do it. He arrives penniless, and in need of a job. Agreeing to help out at the dairy farm, John does his best to help the Powells stay afloat, but has he taken on more than he can handle?
Will Havyn and John be able to do enough to save the family farm? Will someone from town thwart their efforts? And what does John really know of the secrets surrounding the Powell family’s past?
My Thoughts: This book was just OK for me. It is a bit sad in places, but I liked Havyn’s creativity in coming up with ways to help her family-it made for some fun and interesting plot twists. It was also really interesting to read about the mystery surrounding the Powells and their past.
I don’t know that I would read it again, as it just didn’t hit the sweet spot for me, but it was interesting, and these authors always do a wonderful job storytelling.
I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you.
I'm of the opinion that one of the signs of a great historical fiction novel is that it makes me want to search out something I've read to learn more about it. In Forever Hidden, there were several such treasures.
The Powell sisters were so delightful in their enthusiasm for music and their love for their mother and grandfather. Each was so different and yet they had a strong bond.
John was my favorite character. All alone in the world after the death of his grandfather, his last living relative, he found himself in Alaska to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. Offered an opportunity by Chuck, his grandfather's best friend, he struggled to be sure he was doing the right thing. I loved his work ethic and his commitment to take care of the farm and the family there to the very best of his ability.
Havyn's chickens were great! I loved the way she cared for each and every one of them and had given them names. And spoke to them and sang to them. And then there was the incident with the sheep!!
I was also fascinated to read about cheese making. The great description of making mozzarella made me want to look up a video to see this being done. I had no idea it was so fast and easy. I now understand why it has such an unusual texture.
Forever Hidden has a satisfying conclusion, though some of the intrigue and conflict is not completely resolved. It is clearly the beginning of a series with closely intertwined stories .
If you enjoy historical fiction with a strong Christian message, you will enjoy Forever Hidden.
What a beautiful story!
I long to see Alaska in person. I got a coveted glimpse of life in Alaska during the gold rush.
Though life was difficult for the Powell sisters, they had each other, and their music. It made life more enjoyable for them.
I loved the way the sisters interacted with each other. They knew each others strengths and weaknesses and knew who to count on in any given situation, as well as who not to involve. The girls antics on the farm with the chickens, dogs, and sheep were hilarious. I loved the cheese making scene too.
If you enjoy warm, cozy books...this one will fit the bill nicely. A good family saga. The characters are wonderful, the setting perfect and the writing, superb. I hope you check it out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Net Galley. I am under no obligation to write a complimentary review only to give my honest opinion of the book..
At 23 years old, Hayvn Powell lives an enchanted life in Nome, Alaska. Supported by her loving mother and grandfather, Hayvn and her sisters have grown into a trio of strong women. All seems ideal, until a mysterious illness strikes her grandfather, leaving the family looking for a way to hang on to their livelihood.
An unknown gentleman arrives to keep the farm running, but the girls uncover documents that may prove him less than noble. With grandfather and then their mother both falling ill, the girls must search out the truth amidst a sea of secrets and romance. Before they lose everything.
Another wonderful read by Peterson and Woodhouse. The authors of The Heart of Alaska series return to a familiar setting and place this story in the 1900's gold rush. Melding history and romance, they write a cast of well-rounded characters, each unique and distinct in their own right. Forever Hidden also includes the rich details of both the gold rush period and Alaska itself that make it an interesting read.
While some aspects of the story were predictable, others were not. And some characters that seem flat later came to life, providing twists and turns throughout the story. For anyone that loves historical Christian reads, Forever Hidden will not disappoint. The only problem is... now I'm anxiously awaiting book #2.
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Are you ready for a secret?
Award-winning authors of fiction and nonfiction books Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse start their historical romance "Forever Hidden", published by Baker Publishing Group (Bethany House), in Cripple Creek, Colorado, in 1891 where Melissa Powell learns from her father, Chuck Bondrant, that her husband Christopher "died" and is already buried. The decision is taken that she and her three daughters, Whitney, Havyn, and Madysen cannot stay there. The story picks up thirteen years later in Nome, Alaska, where the family now runs a dairy and poultry farm. Their live only seems to be stable because Havyn keeps the secret about her grandfather's failing health, but there are also other secrets.
John Roselli shows up in Nome, a grandson of Chuck's friend, and is hired as foreman for the farm. All seems to be going well, even in regard to the fact that Chuck's desire is for John to marry one of his granddaughters. Which one will it be and will it really happen since there is also Judas Reynolds. What are his goals in Nome? Ad what will happen when a supposedly "dead" father suddenly shows up?
I have read some of Tracie Peterson's books (historical and contemporary), but this was the first novel which I read that was written by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse. I highly recommend this book to readers who love Christian historical romance novels and cannot wait for the others in this series "The Treasures of Nome" of which "Forever Hidden" is the first one.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#ForeverHidden #NetGalley
Set in Nome, Alaska during the Alaskan Gold Rush, three sisters: Whitney, Havyn, and Madysen along with their mother and grandfather, are surviving quite well on their farm selling eggs and milk to the miners. The three girls along with their mother are all talented instrumentalists and singers so they add to their income by entertaining on the weekend at the Roadhouse Cafe. The grandson, John Roselli, of an old friend from their previous home in Colorado appears with a package from his grandfather who has passed away. As soon as John arrives, trouble begins with their grandfather developing apoplexy and their mom asthma. But secrets from the past and secrets from the present collide to bring all sorts of problems descending upon the family.
Well written, with wonderful historical detail of both the time period as well as life and times in Nome led to a thoroughly delightful read. The three sisters were so different, but so gifted in both their singing and instrumental abilities. Whitney was strong-willed, independent, opinionated, as well as somewhat of a firebrand and felt she needed to be the support of her family. Havyn was sweet, loving (both people and her animals), and forgiving. Madysen, the youngest, was somewhat scattered; but tried her hardest to help out wherever she was needed. The role the animals played in the story was absolutely charming. The spiritual thread that ran throughout was very well done.
I look forward to the other books in this series.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
"Forever Hidden" by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is the first book in the Treasures of Nome book series. The book is historical fiction taking place in the 1904 in a farm town in Alaska. Havyn , her sisters and her Mother live with her grandfather on a farm. The town is a gold rush town and the time period is seen well in this town. Havyn and her sisters have become accomplished musicians. The family lives with the grandfather. He is supportive and helps guide the family. He has a good character. What will become of the family when trials come and the grandfather gets sick? How will the many chores and duties of the farm be carried out? The book is written by the two authors Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse and shows the reader what life was like in this gold rush town. The book is well written. I appreciate the author and netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions about the book are my own .
Should some secrets remain forever hidden?
That’s the question three sisters must face—each in her own way—in Forever Hidden.
This sweet romance is laced with just the right tough of drama, intrigue, and danger. And if you like chickens (what a strange line for a review!), you’ll love Havyn Powell and her brood. The first in a new series, veteran authors’ Peterson and Woodhouse spina perfect introduction to what will surely be a series of delightful reads.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Forever Hidden
By Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse
I enjoyed reading this book. There was romance, history, and intrigue. The authors worked well at turning a story together. I look forward to reading about the rest of this family in the future.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Forever Hidden introduces us to the Powell sisters whose story we can continue to follow in The Treasures of Nome series. Set in the early 1900s, readers get to see the treatment of the day of pulmonary disease and stroke, complicated by living in the Alaska Territory. The main characters in this novel are models of faith and strength, but also demonstrate the struggles with forgiveness and following one's own agenda that even stalwart Christians face. This novel also addresses the wisdom of keeping secrets, even when it seems the right thing to do.
As always Peterson and Woodhouse have crafted a story not meant solely to entertain, but also to encourage and challenge. As with many series these days, this one is built around a family of three siblings with a book devoted to each. Interestingly, The Treasures of Nome begins with the focus on the middle sister. The eldest and youngest are polar opposites, and I cannot wait to see the direction their stories take. I am grateful to have received a copy of Forever Hidden from Bethany House via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review, and received no monetary compensation.
Chuck Bondurant has been caring for his daughter and granddaughters since their husband/father was killed in Colorado. He has moved the family to Alaska and started a dairy farm. When he has a stroke, the family is left bewildered and searching for a plan to continue without his strong support. Chuck has already made provisions though through John Roselli, the grandson of a good friend in Colorado. John came looking for Chuck when his grandfather died and left him with a request to take a package to Chuck. Chuck hired him and asked him to agree to marry one of his granddaughters and take over the farm when Chuck passed on. Of course, the ladies had no idea about this plan. His granddaughter Hayvn is the one who trusts John and John is enchanted with her as well. This is a fun book and there are twists and surprises along the way. I recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romances.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Oh, the secrets people keep and just what hiding them can do. In Forever Hidden, we are introduced to the three Powell sisters along with their love of music and their headstrong, red-headed personalities as they find themselves dealing with circumstances they never expected.
I think my favorite part of this novel was the cast of characters. Even though this was really Havyn's story, I appreciated getting to know each of the other members of her family and how they'd all been shaped into the people they were. At different times I felt like I could resonate with each of them in a unique way. I also adored John. At times I'll admit he seemed "too good," but I still think he was the perfect man to save the day. I have to say his most swoon-worthy moment for me was when he talked to Havyn's chickens. I appreciated that he supported her instead of making fun of her love of animals. That's a good guy right there. Another favorite scene? The sheep herding. But I'm not saying anything more you'll have to read it for yourself haha.
Although at times I felt like I could resonate with each of the sisters, I think my heart resonated more closely with Whitney. She put a lot of weight on her shoulders and felt the most at peace when she could control things. Change was a scary thing. She liked to be needed and didn't like having to rely on anyone else. The anger she held onto towards her father was a fuel to protect her heart and not let others in. But while she bottled up all of her emotions and held them close, it didn't mean she didn't have feelings. She just had to learn how to process them and she couldn't pretend they didn't exist. I can't wait to read Whitney's book. I hope it's next just so I don't have to wait long for it.
If you've ever read any of the authors' other books, you'll know that faith isn't something that's merely added in, but holds a genuine, vital role. What I loved about this one was that while the overall lesson may have been the same, each of the characters had to learn it differently. As people none of us are the same. We have our own experiences and personalities that shape us into who we are. We each have our own secrets we'd rather not be revealed either for our own protection or that of others. Yet even though we can have the best intentions for why we keep them, they can still hold great power to destroy. It's amazing the healing powers that faith can have on a person's soul.
I truly enjoyed reading this one and can't wait to continue with the next one in the series. I'm only sad I have to wait another whole year for it to come. I got plenty of laughter out of the fun with the animals and I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters. I can't wait to see Whitney and Madysen get their happy endings as well.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Forever Hidden is a very charming book about a young man making a journey north to find and deliver a package to an old friend of his recently deceased uncle. This book has some really endearing elements. It has romance, old charm, intrigue, some shady dealings and shady characters and great friendships. I especially enjoyed the character of John and the setting he found himself in, John was very well written and I felt like I knew him through the author's words. The girls were also wonderfully unique with their own quirks and vibrant personalities. I would have liked to know more about the town characters, especially Judas Reynolds. I feel like his character could have had more of a story to tell, he played an important part in the overall story but his character seemed to fall flat. With that being said, this is still a great read and will leave you wanting to know more about these wonderful characters!
Fans of Tracie Peterson will enjoy Forever Hidden, because of her experience writing rich novels set in Alaska. Collaborating with Kimberley Woodhouse for this new Treasures of Nome series enriches the story with her musical background. The book is filled with the three Powell sisters who are woven together as a musical tapestry that plays an integral role in the family's survival when their grandfather has a stroke.
Moving to Alaska after the death of their father meant something different to everyone in the family. The impact was profound, as forgiveness and trust are woven throughout this story. As a reader, one has the privilege of seeing and understanding each character. In fiction, as in life, we react to things because of our life experiences. It is when we are open to seeing situations with fresh eyes that we begin to understand, forgive and trust.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy well written historical Christian fiction. I particularly liked the setting in the Alaska gold rush heyday. This book begs for a sequel or two, because every sister has a story to tell!
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
This is my first ARC. Thank you BHP to fill this bookless space as I waited for another BH release! I love Tracie Peterson! I tried her in the Land of the Shining Water series as a Prime Reading and have read several since then so u was happy to see she had something new and requested! I have gotten to know Kimberly Woodhouse in Daughters of the Mayflower, which was the next installment was one that I was awaiting, and I feel like I have a new friend! I actually am in a series and didn’t want one right now, which is why I didn’t choose anymore of Tracies books for the moment other than her standalone All Things Hidden, which opened my heart to AK. Haha I didn’t know that this was a series until marking it as reading on Goodreads but I am thrilled that this isn’t goodbye to my friends the Powell’s and the new Mrs Roselli! I didn’t see the other installments on Goodreads but I want to add them to to Want to Read shelf ASAP since I will have to wait for my next installment of DotM after I read the next. This was great! I was at a loss to find something to read and didn’t want to be bookless for the couple of weeks before DotM released. Another great one my Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse!
A wonderful start to series, Treasures of Nome. Readers will become quickly engaged in this heart warming story taken place in the early 1900's in Alaska. I loved the deep bond the three sisters had with their mother and grandad. My favorite character was John, a faithful, steadfast man with a unwavering faith in God. Looking forward to the next installment. Highly recommend!
Nice slow moving story, Havyn and John meet when John comes to deliver a package to Havyn's grandfather, from John's grandfather. He becomes foreman of the family farm upsetting Havyn's sister Whitney. As time goes on, he becomes a very important part of the family, an indispensable member. Throughout the story Havyn and John become closer and closer, as their friendship grows. An all around lovely story to enjoy!
FOREVER HIDDEN by TRACIE PETERSON and KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE is the first novel in the Treasures of Nome series. It is a beautiful historical romance, with quite a bit of intrigue and a good Christian message, based largely on Philippians chapter four, and the importance of forgiveness is also brought out strongly.
The story starts out in the mining town of Cripple Creek, Colorado, in 1892 and carries on in Nome, Alaska, in 1904.
Melissa Powell and her three red headed daughters are brilliant musicians. They are all lovable characters, but I especially like Havyn, who sings to her brood of chickens, each of which she has named! She is also the family's keeper of secrets.
The four women live with Melissa's father, Chuck Bundrant, who has given up mining and runs a succesful farm.
After the death of his grandfather, John Roselli uses all his savings to get a parcel to Chuck, his nonno's old friend, and ends up staying on as farm manager.
That's as much as I am going to tell you!
I have read and enjoyed so many of these authors' novels, and Forever Hidden is no exception. I can highly recommend the book as a most enjoyable read and am looking forward to the next books in the series.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
I love these authors! They never fail to write a good story! This is the journey of a mother and her father and her three daughters in Alaska. It is redeeming yet at times, heartbreaking. I can’t wait for the next installment in this series. If I were to make one suggestion, it would be more about the setting. This is missing. A great read-don’t miss this one.