A Life Once Dreamed
By: Rachel Fordham

Story Line: 4 Stars
Depth: 3 Stars
Faith: 2 Stars
Love Story: 4 Stars
Overall: 3.5 Stars


Agnes Pratt's future is all planned out after being proposed to by her one true love. However, after learning a devastating secret from her past, she must flee Buffalo for a small mining town in the Dakota Territory. Leaving her fiance and the comforts of home, she must start over and keep the past in the past.

James Harris has no idea why his childhood best friend and love of his life ran out on him six years ago. He promised her she was the only woman he would ever love. Where could she have gone? After receiving a letter from Agnes' mom detailing her whereabouts, he is determined to find out what happened and earn back her love.

The new doctor in town has everyone talking, but one glimpse of him has Agnes shaking, speechless. How did he find her? Her heart still belongs to him, but she can't imagine getting involved again - he is the one person who cannot know her secret. When the truth is revealed, will they be able to work through the past or will they forfeit a future together?

We enjoyed this lighthearted read and liked getting to know the characters. While a little slow at times, we were eager to see how the story would unfold. One area we would have loved to see more developed is the faith aspect. Overall we do enjoy Rachel's books and her ability to transport us back to frontier life in the 1880's.

In "A Life Once Dreamed", Agnes Pratt learns some shocking news and is in need of a fresh start. Leaving behind her family and the man she loves, she moves to the Dakota Territory and begins her new life as a school teacher. While there, she develops friendships with the townspeople and even her little cat. But soon, the man she once longed to marry, James, ends up in the same town as the new doctor. He has a lot of work cut out for him if he wants to tear down the walls she's built around her heart. Once the author explains the "shocking news" that made Agnes run away, I thought it was overblown and unnecessarily dramatic.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

A Life Once Dreamed is the first book I've read by Rachel Fordham and I hope it won't be my last - I absolutely loved this book! I didn't know what to expect when I started it, but from the first chapter on I was hooked. I felt for the characters immediately and was super curious what was going on/what caused her to leave. I had my guesses, but in the end it was still a surprise (until certain clues were revealed). ;)

I loved the romance so much! I think it was so special because they were each others first (and only) loves, so I was just hoping for a happy ending for them. The story had some really intense moments, which made it authentic.

All in all, A Life Once Dreamed was a wonderful historical romance and I highly recommend if you enjoy this genre.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

“This was her life. Colorful and simple. Comfortable and predictable. She'd woven herself into the fabric of the town, serving and loving the townsfolk and making a life for herself in Penance.”

I really admired Aggie's determination to make a new life for herself far away from her parents and all she ever knew in Boston to become a school teacher in the Dakota Territory. Her strength of character is what makes her the woman she is. Deeply investing in her students and the townspeople in whatever way she can, she finds contentment. That is until James Harris—her long ago fiancé and the only man she ever loved, shows up to answer the newspaper ad for a town doctor. Could the life she once dreamed become reality, or will the past hurts and secrets keep her heart locked up forever? As for James, he hasn't lost the love he once had for Aggie—if anything—it has grown over the years. And he's determined to find the answers as to why she left him six years ago, in hopes of convincing her to start over again. He's an ever-patient gentleman, a compassionate doctor and a loyal friend.

Both James and Aggie had a lot of growing up to do in this story. I really like how the author stretched them in ways that molded the kind of people they eventually became. Watching them overcome their past to forge a new future was one I enjoyed. Second-chance love or reunion love is one of my favorite tropes in a book, so I was especially fond of this story. In my opinion, seeing characters work through what tore them apart only makes for a stronger relationship in the end. I also loved the townspeople, there were many who contributed their own personality to the mix & helped impact both James and Aggie. A well-rounded cast of characters is what makes a good story in my book!

Lastly, the spiritual nuggets throughout were fun to find & great reminders to myself as a Christian. Even if our long-ago dreams don’t ever become reality, God can still make beauty out of the ashes of the past. I really love the new life He forged for Aggie & James! When an author has a good faith thread in a story & it reflects in the characters, that’s my most favorite part. Not only am I reading for entertainment, but also to feed my soul! I recommend this to inspirational historical fiction lovers & those who enjoy second-chance love stories.

*I received a complimentary copy from Revell publishing and wasn't obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

A Life Once Dreamed is a quick and easy to read historical fiction romance with Christian themes. There is some suspense and unhappy events in this story, but it is more for those who don't want to read a book that will make them stay up at night worrying over the characters. That isn't to say that it isn't enjoyable, nor to say that you won't have questions as you read that keep you engaged and ready to keep reading when you should be going to bed. Fordham did an impressive job of keeping you wondering about the reasoning that Agnes, the main character, has for running away from her family and the best friend she's in love with throughout a major part of the story. The only real suggestion I would have had for the author would have been to develop some of the characters more. I liked all of the major characters, but I wanted to know more about Sam and Hannah, and I think the opportunity to build some compassion for Freddie's mother was lost, also. Seeing her son through her eyes, feeling some of her sorrow and regret, or even joy in something beautiful from such a tragic life, would have added some depth to the plot. Overall, I found it an enjoyable story, and I think many other readers looking for a simple romance set in the pioneering days of America will, also.

I enjoyed the flow of the story. I found the h & H likeable and relatable. All the characters were well written and well rounded beyond card board cutouts. Hannah was a wonderful side character & support for the h. Also, added great food for thought & helped move the plot along. I would love to read more about Sam. A little bit of history of the way things were woven in & added to make for interesting read. Rachel Fordham did well in keeping me hooked with the tension & mystery behind the h. I did guess correctly at what it was but it wasn't on the nose at all. My only caveat was sometimes the dialogue felt a little stiff or formal.

I always expect to enjoy stories about teachers, I was happy to receive a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley so that I could give my opinions. This is the story of a "old maid" teacher in the Dakota Territory who had left a privileged life in Buffalo when she discovered a secret. Everything was going smoothly until a new doctor came to town and the townspeople began trying to make them a couple. Aggie and the doctor worked together to help an orphaned child after a saloon fire, but then an epidemic threatens to take the child's life again, along with the lives of the townspeople. Although Aggie and the doctor grow close, there is a secret keeping them apart, and there is another man wanting to win Aggie's heart.

For me, this book started too slowly. I thought the beginning was too chatty, but once it started rolling, I was completely hooked. I like the way the author tied up all the pieces at the end,

A heartfelt historical romance set in 1880 Dakota Territory. This touching story features a young woman who finds her purpose in life teaching school in a small town far from the affluent society she grew up in. Fans of Christy will enjoy her character that grows and matures with the many challenges she faces.

This was a pleasant read, reminding me a bit of Janette Oke or Grace Livingston Hill. I enjoyed watching the characters grow through their difficult circumstances. The author's love for and understanding of children clearly shines through. Championing the cause of foster children and the prejudice they face is a relevant topic even today. The bumpy second chance romance is sweet and tender, with a complication or two, neatly resolved by the end. The faith element was subtle, but present in important moments. The main characters relied on their faith especially in tough times. I liked the epilogue, giving a glimpse of a happy future.
A satisfying read overall. Recommend for teens and up who enjoy a clean historical romance with faith.
4.5 stars

A Life Once Dreamed is set in the Dakota Territory in the 1880s. The town of Penance had grown as minors, loggers and their families moved to town. Agnes Pratt was totally unprepared, having been brought up in a wealthy household in Buffalo, New York, but after teaching school there for six years, she had acquired many life skills and developed close relationships with the townfolk. She'd chosen a single-life finding fulfillment with her students. Was the life she had built about to be knocked down by the appearance of the new town doctor, someone she thought never to see again?

This story was a pleasant read. Fans of historical romance know how these stories go, so there aren't too many surprises here, but following the story as it progresses makes for an enjoyable reading experience. I am grateful to have received a copy from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

How I felt about this book definitely changed as I read it. At first, I struggled to understand Aggie's motivation and driving force. She was hiding something, and I could almost guess what it was. But to me, it seemed like she was being a martyr by stopping herself from being truly happy. Then I realized that I was looking at the character through my 2020 lens. Acceptable situations today were extreme problems back in the 1860's. Once I came to realize my bias, I started to really like the character and the storyline.

Key theme: sacrificial love. Aggie fully acknowledges that is what love truly is - a willingness to give up what you want for the benefit of someone else.
Another emphasized trait: keeping promises.
Unexpected character I enjoyed: McHenry. While this Old Timer's knowledge was perhaps outdated (at least when it came to doctoring), he was still valued for his wisdom.
Another minor character who stole the show: Tommy (watch for him! :-) )
Issues this book tackled: stereotypes. Being able to look at someone for who they really are and not to apply generalities as a rule. (Favorite quote: It's only where you came from, it's not where you're going.")
Friendships and community were important parts of this story. This would have been the reality back in Dakota Territory. I liked how the town looked out for each other. Characters were imperfect with flaws, but they did their best to support each other. One of the most important ones was of course James and Aggie who learned how to transform their childhood friendship into a grown up relationship. The gift of the quilt was a fun touch!
While I am not sure that a sequel is possible, I do hope one of the major characters has his story told.
Overall I really enjoyed this Dakota story, I definitely recommend it. Thank you to Revell Publishing and to NetGalley for allowing me to read this copy right before it was released. I wanted to review this book because I think those who enjoy Christian historical fiction should definitely read this book. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Revell Publishing and to NetGalley for this eARC! “A Life Once Dreamed” is available now!

Rachel Fordham’s “A Life Once Dreamed” takes place in America’s Dakota Territory in the late 1800s. Agnes Pratt suddenly abandons her fiance and family after learning a secret, and she moves to the small frontier town of Penance. For six years she teaches school, makes friends, and vows to never marry. Then one day her former fiance, James Harris, shows up as the new town doctor. He’s come to win her back but numerous obstacles arise, including a deadly scarlet fever epidemic.

I absolutely love a good, Christian romance but I love them even more when there are issues that are relevant to the present day. “A Life Once Dreamed” definitely delivers. The issue covered here involves not prejudging someone based on their background. In this case, it’s prejudging illegitimate children but I love that this lesson can be applied to a number of present day issues. I think Fordham’s Aggie sums it up best when she says, “It’s time the world stops punishing the innocent for crimes they did not commit.”

You will love this fast read that was the perfect escape!

Prior to reading this book, I had seen it all over Instagram and had been eager to read it. A Life Once Dreamed was everything I hoped it would be and more. Disclaimer, the main character is a redhead but that is not the only reason I greatly enjoyed this new release. ;) There were many unique qualities to this book that I absolutely adored!

For one, I appreciated the fact that there was no villain. The conflict simply arose from the pain of the past and the difficulty of the truth. One of my favorite movies is the Notebook. I love how the two men Allie has to choose between are both great options. She honestly would have had a good life with either, but it was her decision to choose the kind of life she wanted. Most movies and books write “the other man” as rude, selfish, and thoughtless and the decision for the protagonist is blatantly clear to the reader. I honestly loved both James and Sam and appreciated getting a look into their minds and hearts through their narratives.

As a teacher myself, I also loved seeing an 1880s frontier classroom. It was surprising to learn that most teachers had to leave their positions when they married. I cannot imagine teaching all those grades in one classroom, without Pinterest and YouTube, and without a copier and printer. Inspiring!

Although flawed in their own right, the characters are written with such depth and high moral character that truly makes them endearing and compelling. Agnes, James, Hannah, Ruby, Sam… loved loved loved these characters! Despite her timid nature, Agnes Pratt showed a tremendous amount of courage and love that set her apart. She was most beloved in the frontier town because of who she was and the selfishness acts she did for the benefit of others, even when it drained her. I appreciated how patient James was when it came to finding out the truth. If it was me, I might not have been as patient and would have plagued her until she told me.

A beautiful message that it doesn’t matter where you come from, only matters where you are going! As the daughter of parents who worked hard extremely hard to pull themselves out of poverty and into the destiny that God has for them, I appreciated and loved the message. My life is the benefit of this message and I agree wholeheartedly.

Without giving it away, the ending and epilogue were absolutely beautiful and perfect. The majority of the book left me anxious and frustrated with the lack of truth and just wanted to tell James myself. However, the ending made me absolutely giddy. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face, even when I closed the book. It may be one of the best epilogues I have ever read. It was idyllic and picturesque.

In summary, A Life Once Dreamed is the first of many books that I will read by Rachel Fordham.

A Life Once Dreamed will be released August 4, 2020.

I was given a free copy of the book, but the opinions in this review are completely my own.

“A Life Once Dreamed”, written by Rachel Fordham, is set in the Black Hills of Dakota Territory in 1880. Agnes “Aggie” Pratt grew up in Buffalo, NY, next door to James Harris, the man she would fall in love with and hope to marry. When she was 18, she discovered her life had been a lie. Her secret would prevent her from marrying James, the man she knew she would always love. She did the only thing she could and left him to accept a teaching position in Penance, Dakota Territory. Six years later, James moved to Penance as the new doctor. Miss Aggie is astonished because she thought she would never see him again. How will she be able to work with him in the same town? After a fire at the saloon, Miss Aggie’s life is forever changed when she takes care of a little baby boy, Freddie, orphaned after his mother died in the fire, his father unknown. Will James be able to love her and Freddie once he finds out her secret? To do so, he will have to give up his family and wealth back in Buffalo. This is more than a historical novel. It is a story about a person's future and not about the past. It is a story about love, forgiveness, compassion, and understanding moving past the perception of others. It is a book worth reading!

This book was so beautiful.
I loved the mystery and suspense of what secrets were being kept, and it made me want to read on and learn of them.
I loved the cast of characters and especially loved Minnie’s spunk and bluntness. We all need a Minnie in our lives who will tell us what everyone else is thinking but is too afraid to say.
I adored the heart of the story:that it doesn’t matter where a person comes from, only where they are going. My husband and I fostered for a time and this message resonated within my heart. If only more people would see the value in this ministry, loving and accepting children in their time of need-what a wonderful world this would be.
And I obviously also adored the romance. My heart was so ready for a happy ending and Rachel gave us a lovely one. This is my favorite book by this author so far. I truly hope Sam gets his own story-he deserves it.

“‘This hard life is rich and full.’”

An emotional, joyful story of love, faith, and acceptance from Rachel Fordham! A Life Once Dreamed takes readers on a journey that will make them laugh and cry, and will most definitely inspire them to be and do better.

Fordham offers an an insightful look at a judgmental world that we have mostly, and thankfully, moved past, but brings light to the fact that we must always love people no matter their beginnings or judge them for the mistakes of others. Each character grows so much as they encounter new situations and all different kinds of people, and are inspiring in their own way. The affection between James and Agnes, and Freddie, is beautifully tangible. Each side character adds something wonderful to the story, from devoted Sam to determined Hannah to inspiring McHenry. I especially loved reading parts from Sam’s point of view, and I desperately hope he gets his own story and happy ending.

What I loved best about James’ and Agnes’ relationship was that it was rooted in indubitable friendship. From childhood playmates to teenage lovers to an adult relationship, they were always friends first and foremost. The romance was obvious and sweet, and I absolutely loved the ending and James’ letter to Agnes, but their friendship was true and real. I love when an author seamlessly weaves in backstory that is important but does not directly take place, and Fordham excels in this with James’ journal entries and every little interaction or memory James and Agnes share.

This book is also a timely read, since there is a scarlet fever epidemic, but we can all learn from James’ and Agnes’ determination to fight in the best way possible, and to never give up.

This is the first book by Fordham I have read, and now I need to go devour her other books. I cannot say enough good things about A Life Once Dreamed, and it easily makes the list of my Top Reads of 2020. 5/5 stars

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

If you enjoy historical fiction, you will like the details and setting of this tale. With a mysterious problem stated from the beginning, when the "problem" is finally revealed, there's a lot about it to make you get introspective. Rather than being complacent about the past, this book will challenge you to see where we've been, and where we are going in society.

"A Life Once Dreamed" is a Christian romance set in 1880 in Dakota Territory in America. This story was woven around the laws of the time concerning illegitimate children. Illegitimate children were blamed for their parents sins, so it was easier to go where no one knew their background.

James and Agnes were childhood friends that turned into sweethearts, but James' family was rich and cared deeply about their reputation. When Agnes finally learned about her birth circumstances and adoption, she felt that James' family (and maybe even James) wouldn't accept her. Telling James would bring shame on her parents and could bring problems on James. She went west to start a new life but decided not to marry because she still loved James. After becoming a doctor, James followed her and pleaded to know why she had abandoned him. It's not until Agnes plans to adopt an illegitimate baby that James must confront his attitudes.

I cared about what happened to the main characters. Sam was a wonderful character: selflessly caring, very supportive, and not caring about one's birth circumstances. Agnes also cared for others with her words and actions, partly because she understood accepting suffering out of love for another. James was kind and very much cared about healing people, but he still had some selfish and judgmental attitudes due to his upbringing. He had to work through these as he faced the uncertainties about his relationship with Agnes and a disease outbreak in the town. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable romance.

I really enjoyed reading A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham. Set in the late 1800's Agnes Pratt thinks life is about as great as it can get when she is shaken to her core to find out that not everything is as it seems. With her newfound knowledge she flees everything she knows and loves to start afresh in Penance. Imagine her surprise and shock, when six years later, her past comes to her town. Rachel Fordham has weaved a fantastic story that has twists and turns that leave you hoping and guessing at the same time!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.

Agnes Pratt, a beloved school teacher in Penance, South Dakota, had a secret past. Years earlier, on the verge of being engaged to the son of some wealthy neighbors in Buffalo, New York, Agnes learned of some devastating history in her own family. Determined not to force her young man to have to choose between his family and herself, Agnes fled to South Dakota to teach and forget her heartaches.

Dr. James Harris, fresh out of medical school, was focused on one goal: Find out why Agnes Pratt had left him with a broken heart years ago. When James shows up in Penance in answer to an ad for a doctor, Agnes once again is confronted with the choice she made to flee her family and her one true love.

Will James learn why Agnes left him? Will Agnes have the courage to tell James the secrets of her past? Find out in this heartwarming tale of romance in a small town on the American Frontier. This would be a worthy addition to any romantic historical fiction collection.

A solid 3 stars.

First, what I liked: despite being a western, the story kept me reading and turning the pages to the end. The setting was well-done and the cast of characters was interesting and well rounded. This was the first book I read by this author and the writing is capable.

Second, what I didn't like: I understood why Agnes left NY, but leaving without saying goodbye to her best friend was beyond me. Once James showed up, I really didn't understand why she kept the reason of her leaving from him. It made no sense in their current setting and social standing to not tell him why, especially once he was clear she was the reason he came.

I also don't understand why the author included Sam's POV. It had no bearing whatsoever since he's not a main character. In fact, his POV is completely expendable and it only slowed down the story.

Fans of the author and western historicals will certainly love this book and its message about one's worth.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.