I can only imagine what is must have been like for Agnes to give up everything and travel to Dakota Territory, but unfortunately her new life was short lived. When her childhood sweetheart shows up in her new life, she has to do all she can to keep her secret, especially from him. I liked in how the book progressed we got to see a glimpse of life during this time period and see the relationship grow between Agnes and James and how they worked on overcoming the past.

I received a copy of the book the review is mine.

I really enjoyed a Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham. I found the characters interesting and the plot engaging. There is a bit of mystery and romance that kept me reading well past my bedtime. This book transported me back in time to the days of frontier medicine on the Dakota Territory. If you like historical fiction, this book will not disappoint.

I was blessed to receive an electronic copy via the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Oh my! This book was wonderful! The storyline and characters felt so real and believable. And such a love story! I loved that they were childhood friends and already loved each other from the beginning. The memories, the complexities of being in a relationship not just starting one was refreshing to read about. I was also excited to see an epilogue that wrapped up the story. I always want to know the more long term ending and this book delivered that. I really liked Hannah's character, I can't even imagine what it would be like to have such a true friend. I read the whole book in one sitting! Couldn't put it down! Highly recommend!

I have to start by saying this book was absolutely wonderful! Ms. Fordman is a wonderful author! The pace was perfect and the characters had wonderful depth. I was pulled into the story within the very first chapter, and had a very hard time putting the book down at all. It's been a while since I've been drawn into a book so completely that I've lost so much time out of my days reading.

This book is about stereotypes, and sacrificial love. It is about forgiveness and compassion, This was a love story from many angles. I feel blessed to have experienced this wonderful novel.

The main character, Agnes (Aggie) left from her wealthy home when she discovered a secret about herself just as she was about to marry her love of her life boy next door. She and the boy next door grew up as best friends, and then as future husband and wife. However, when she discovered her "secret", she ran away after telling him she could not marry him, and never telling him why. For the next 6 years, neither of them could ever consider anyone else to love. They were brought together again in the wild frontier, and the story that unfolds is impossible to put down! All I will say is that this book is totally worth the read. I'm not going to give anything further away. Enjoy!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The trait of a quality romance novel is for the reader to feel the love of the characters through the words of the author. That’s what Rachel Fordham gives us here.

This is a lovely story about Agnes Pratt, who leaves her love, James Harris, rather than cause him any pain. She settles in Penance. As a group of settlers, begin to form a town, Agnes finds her niche as the school teacher. She comes to love each of the children, even the mischievous ones. She makes friends and becomes an integral part of this caring community. Her closely controlled life is threatened when James arrives in town as the new doctor.

James wants to rekindle the relationship with Agnes She knows this must be avoided if she is to keep the important secret that caused her to leave him in the first place. As he becomes intertwined in her new life, her resolve begins to waiver.

This novel is truly enjoyable and refreshing. At times it is joyful, sweet, sad, tragic, hopeful and heartbreaking. It keeps the readers interest throughout. The story is engaging, despite or maybe because of the lack of intimate scenes. Reading a story of love written in this manner is truly a blessing The time period is perfect for a story of secrets that cannot be told in a minute on a cellphone or that require a lengthy travel to find someone. No hopping on a plane to see someone makes the suspense in the story exquisite.


I received an ARC from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. The in no way affects my opinion or rating of this book. I am voluntarily submitting this review and am under no obligation to do so.

4.5*

I enjoyed this sweet story about dreams and sacrifices. Agnus has a wonderful life full of hopes and dreams. When something happens in her life she feels as if her dreams are no longer within her grasp and must change those dreams to protect the ones she loves. Making a great sacrifice she flees Buffalo, NY and heads west to a small town.

The story begins with the reader getting to see Agnus the moment she decides to leave her home then the time jumps to several years later. I enjoyed seeing her new home and the person that she had become through several years of struggles and sacrifices. And of course with the jump in time the reader is left wondering what has happened in her life in those years and the biggest question, why did Agnus leave her home. What was so big that it caused her to leave beyond everything and everyone? The reader is shown that information as the story unfolds and surprises occur.

Agnus has become a beloved member of the town and is cared for by many. They want her to be happy. When the new doctor shows up single, the whole town has their plans for Agnus and the doctor. Little do they know that he brings with him memories or her past and reasons for why she fled. There were some humorous moments connected with Agnus and the doctor, James. There were also several moments that brought on reflection and a need for Agnus to face her past and strive for more healing as well as a resurfacing of her dreams.

I really liked this sweet town of Penance and the community members who lived there. Life in that time could be very harsh. Yet it could also be very fulfilling as well. I enjoyed how the author showed aspects of both. There's heartache and struggles and frustrations due to society. And yet there's the ability to have hope and dreams even through the struggles. And those dreams can change to be better. As Agnus works through her past, her present and her possible future she learns how to allow life to mould and guide her through all the ups and downs, happy and sad.

Content: Clean.

I received a copy from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

I love the title because it encapsulates the story perfectly. Aggie and James have known each other practically forever. Somewhere along the way they fell in love and expected to marry and live happily ever after. But an unknown factor makes that dream unattainable.

We pick up the story after Aggie has moved to the Dakota territory to take a teaching job. She's been there about six years and made a nice life for herself. But that life has limits and it is definitely not the one she had envisioned.

When James unexpectedly turns up to take the position of town doctor everything is once again turned upside down.

If you've ever planned something for your life only to have it change by circumstances beyond your control you'll be able to relate to Aggie . . . and James for that matter. In Aggie's mind she felt like leaving was the loving thing to do for James. But it left James feeling betrayed.

A Life Once Dreamed is a good reminder that we need to communicate with those we love. Even when it is difficult. Especially when it is difficult! When we communicate it allows all involved to make their own decisions.

I thought this was a wonderful story filled with heartbreak as well as hope. If you enjoy historical romance I would recommend you give this story a look. Rachel Fordham is an accomplished storyteller that will have you wanting more after the last page.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

A beautiful and touching story!
My rating is 4.5 stars

By the time I was finished reading, I had a tear or two in my eyes from the sweetness of this lovely story told through letters, journal entries, and beautiful narrative.

As much as I love boy-next-door stories, I especially love historical boy-next-door-stories! Not only is A Life Once Dreamed exactly that, and it has the added bonus that Agnes and James were best friends who knew they loved each other and planned to marry. Until a secret sent Agnes running - with James' best interests at heart.

James was everything the boys on my street growing up were not. :-) He was considerate, compassionate, loved spending time with Aggie, wasn't afraid to cry. I can just picture him pushing her on the swing when they were very young, carrying her books home from school, tugging her pigtails to make her mad, rescuing kittens with her, and kissing her over the picket fence separating their yards. Sigh.

Throw into this wonderful combination of plot elements a love triangle and the recipe for a perfect story is complete. Enter Sam, the gentle logger with a broken heart. He was skilled with hammer and saw and was able to make the much-needed repairs around the schoolhouse. And just happened to be in the right place at the right time to rescue Aggie - more than once!

When Aggie's heart led her to doing something that costs her job and then tragedy struck the town, she stuck to her convictions and did not allow prejudice to overpower love. No matter the cost.

The small town of Penance is home to a cast of delightful characters. I even liked prickly Minnie! She wasn't afraid of speaking her mind although she might have done well to hold her tongue until she had more information. She did speak out of good motives, though, and cared for Aggie deeply. My favorite secondary character was little Tommy. His precocious questions were adorable and it was so sweet how he latched on to Dr. Harris and went to him with the questions no one else would answer.

A certain, yet subtle, faith element runs through the story as Aggie, James, and Sam turn to the Lord for solace and help. Their faith is lived more than spoken and yet it remains strong.

If you enjoy historical fiction that warms your heart, you'll want to read A Life Once Dreamed.

What a sweet story of acceptance and love. Aggie Pratt left behind the big city life with her station and wealth when life took a big swing after her lifelong friend proposed marriage. Aggie is all settled into her new small town life, where she's gained the love and respect of her fellow residents when James appears out of nowhere. He's got himself a new career and is looking to reconnect with Aggie and get some answers about why she left like she did. The relationship between James and Aggie was quite enjoyable! I loved their banter, friendship, and comradery! I also really enjoyed the secondary characters of the townspeople! Aggie's relationship with them and their love for her was such a joy to read. I enjoyed this story from beginning to end!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

"A Life Once Dreamed" by Rachel Fordham is the perfectly designed novel, so full of warm, human feelings and family affections, that we can really identify with the perfectly believable, realistic characters, complete with human flaws, and endearing quirks. This award-winning, inspirational story, so perfectly portrayed in this lavishly detailed tale, set in the Wild West, will appeal to readers who love heartwarming novels that fill us with satisfaction. Rachel Fordham's tender tale of compassion and grace revolves around the feelings of the human heart, perfectly depicting the real nature of love that tears at our heartstrings.

I have very mixed feelings about this book. Having read another by this author, I came in with high hopes...but somehow, they were not realised. Maybe it is because I am at odds with the main character, although I cannot explain why without spoiling the story. It is far easier to judge, & to make decisions, from the outside looking in – but I do not like it when that is being done to me. So I guess I should withhold judgement as I have never been in Agnes’ position - & yet I hope I would have thought differently...

A beautiful second chance romance novel that readers of historical fiction will enjoy. Set in the Dakota Territory in the 1880s, this uplifting novel sets a slower pace and allows readers to take in the scenery of this frontier town.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

I enjoyed this story of frontier life and the joys and challenges that were presented at that time. I enjoyed the characters in the story so much especially Aggie, James, Freddie, Hannah, Minnie and Tommy!

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

‘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.

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.)

A Life Once Dreamed, by Rachel Fordham, is a Christian Historical fiction that takes place in the Dakota Territory in the 1880’s. I wanted to read this story because I love the genre, especially stories that take place in that part of our country. This was one of those easy to read story you just want to get lost in. I enjoyed reading how Agnes left her easy life and took a job far away to be a teacher. The story shows her as a strong, mature, caring person, who will do what ever she can to not hurt those she loves. This is very evident in why she left James just after he proposed and didn’t tell him why.

After Agnes left James, he became a person of his own, didn’t follow in his father’s foot steps. He wanted a life with Agnes and did what he needed to try to achieve that, even leaving his wealthy family.

This is a great story. It gives some a glimpse into the life those lived in the 1880’s. The lack of medical help and the restrictions put on certain occupations. The story is a nice story with some mystery and a good clean romance. I was totally surprised as to the reason Agnes left James.

I received an e-book copy of this story from the publisher, through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is an excellent historical fiction and romance that is a wonderful journey through the lives, hardships, and relationships of those forging their way in The Dakota Territory in the late 1800s,

In this book we follow along with the lives of Agnes Pratt (Aggie) and James Harris. Both knew each other while they lived in Buffalo, NY. They are one another’s first and only loves. Because of misunderstandings, societal rules/expectations/classes their potential betrothal is unexpectedly ended by Aggie. Feeling as if she has no other choice, she flees James and everything she knows and become a teacher in the small western town of Penance. Here she creates a new life full of independence, strength, friendships, and purpose. The town is endearing and so are its people. James becomes a physician and finds out where she has escaped to, and takes up a practice in the town hoping to win the love of his life back from her abrupt and mysterious departure.

Both find one another again and through reintroduction, time, and maturity the are finally able to find one another again.

This book is so beautiful in so many ways. I love the complexity, rawness, and strength of Agnes and James. I love seeing them change and come into their own. I also adore second-chance relationships and happy endings. It isn’t easy to get there, though. The western territories are a different animal altogether. Through leaning on one another within the town, everyone becomes closer, each finding they have a purpose, a role, and are needed. I loved reading about the town, the events, and the full cast of secondary characters. I also enjoyed reading a bit about Sam. I really think he would be an excellent character in which to create a new novel.

An excellent, romantic, and endearing read that has a wonderful plot, characters, development, and of course, ending.

5/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Revell for this copy and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Instagram, Amazon, and B&N accounts immediately.

Title: A Life Once Dreamed
Author: Rachel Fordham
Genre: Historical Fiction, romance
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

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, 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?
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! I liked seeing how Aggie went from the life she had before—just the brief glimpse we had was enough to give an idea of her well-to-do background—to the challenging life on the frontier. I enjoyed the simple small-town life and Aggie’s interactions with the children and the townspeople.
James was a lot of fun, too, as he kept slipping aback into his old teasing ways from childhood, interspersed with his Doctor personality. This was sweet and refreshing, like a drink of sweet iced tea on a summer day.
Rachel Fordham lives in Washington state. A life Once Dreamed is her newest novel.
(Galley courtesy of Revell in exchange for an honest review.)

You know those books that once you read the end you just sit there hugging the book and maybe let a few tears fall down. Well that was this wonderful story by Rachel Fordhem for me! 🤗😢📖

I loved this book all the way through! I think James’ humor was so great and really made me love him. I have found lately that I enjoy books that have a third perspective in them and Sam is a great added character! I feel there is another book that might follow this one! I would so recommend this book to anyone that enjoys #HistoricalRomance #ProperRomance.

“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, 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.”

This was such a special book! There’s just something about Second Chance Romances that really make you root for the hero and heroine. But in this case, Aggie and James are both just wonderful, unselfish people caught up in a society that might not accept them as they are, and they completely deserve their happiness wherever they find it. Aggie has found that six years in the Black Hills, far away from her childhood sweetheart, just isn’t enough to outrun a secret she thinks is enough to keep them apart. James has spent those years becoming a doctor, and is still drawn inexplicably to Aggie and finds her in her new life in Penance. Together they weather fires, pandemics, separation, and more to finally let the truth set them free. I loved the secondary characters, including Sam, Hannah, Tommy, and baby Fred. I also love the shout out to Yours Truly, Thomas (did y’all catch that?) I received a complementary copy of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley, and was under no obligation to write a review.